One hundred years after Francis Pegahmagabow received his first Military Medal, his family and community joined First Nation, military and other dignitaries on National Aboriginal Day to celebrate the unveiling of the first monument erected in Pegahmagabow’s honour.
The life-sized bronze monument, created by Sudbury-based sculptor Tyler Fauvelle (www.tylerfauvelle.ca), is situated on the Georgian Bay waterfront at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts in Parry Sound.
The Ontario Native Education Counselling Association (ONECA) started the project two years ago.
“Our hope is that this spirit-building public monument will inspire and empower Canadian students of all backgrounds, and resonate strongly with Aboriginal students,” said Roxane Manitowabi, executive director of ONECA.
“The Great War has passed from living memory,” said Tyler Fauvelle. “A bronze monument is an enduring witness. This one will tell, in its own way, the story of Francis Pegahmagabow – an amazing story that is part of our shared history.”
“We are so grateful for the contributions and assistance we’ve received,” said Roger Chum, president of ONECA. “The generosity and goodwill of the Pegahmagabow family, the communities of Wasauksing and Shawanaga, the Town of Parry Sound, the Department of Canadian Heritage, the Royal Canadian Regiment, the members of ONECA, and of everyone who supported this work of respect and remembrance, is truly heart-warming. It’s the spirit of reconciliation.”
National Chief Perry Bellegarde (Assembly of First Nations), and Lt.-General J.M.M. Hainse (Commander, Canadian Army), were among the dignitaries at the unveiling. A 50-soldier Guard of Honour (3rd Battalion, the Royal Canadian Regiment), stood in solemn tribute.
Francis Pegahmagabow was born and raised in Shawanaga First Nation. Enlisting in 1914, he fought overseas for virtually all of the First World War, seeing action at the Second Battle of Ypres, the Somme (where he was wounded), and Passchendaele.
A superior scout and sniper, he was one of only 39 Canadians to be awarded a Military Medal and two bars. In Canada’s history, no other Indigenous soldier has ever received as many battle awards.
Settling at Wasauksing First Nation, where he was twice elected chief, he continued to fight – this time, for the traditions, rights and self-government of his people. He was a founder of the Brotherhood of Canadian Indians and twice served as Supreme Chief of the National Indian Government.
Donations are still needed, and can be made by cheque payable to “Parry Island Hero”, and sent to ONECA, P.O. Box 220, 37 A Reserve Road, Naughton, Ont., P0M 2M0, or online (via Pay Pal) at www.oneca.com.
Special to the Sudbury Star – sud.editorial@sunmedia.ca
Photo: Sculpture by Tyler Fauvelle