Mi'kmaq and Acadian Burial Ground

Within walking distance from my home, just off Sperrys Beach, there is an very old cemetery that holds the remains of both Mi'kmaw and Acadian dead. I have been walking right past it for almost 2 years, never even knowing it was there. Sperrys Beach is situated at the mouth of the Petite Rivière, a river named by French explorer Samuel de Champlain in 1604. Mi'kmaq people knew this river as Simkook and this was a major gathering area for them, especially in the spring and summer. 

The History of Acadians in Nova Scotia is complicated one. They are French settlers who often intermarried with local First Nation people after they emigrated here. They were forced to leave Nova Scotia by the British in the late 18th century in what became known as the Great Expulsion. Many never returned and ventured south to Louisiana where they became know as Cajuns, but there is still a large Acadian presence here. 

Ellen Hunt, who has both Mi'kmaq and Acadian ancestry, began extensive research on this cemetery more than two decades ago. In 2008, with the help of the Mi'kmaq Burial Ground Research and Restoration Association, the current land owner and the Native Council of Nova Scotia, a monument was erected on the site. The burial ground is now protected by the Cemeteries and Monuments Protection Act. Ellen's research has dated it back as far as the late 1500s. 

On this chilly September morning drumming, songs and prayers took place to honour the Mi'kmaq and Acadian ancestors buried here. I did not approach this with my usual journalistic standards, so i cannot provide full captions to most of these images (i.e. i did not gather names, quotes or comments from the participants), but i do still hope you find this post informational. It was a ceremony that was open to all, so people showed up from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds, including an Episcopal priest who seemed to really take to drumming. They were welcomed into the circle and smudged with smoke. Sacred songs were sung to the beating of drums and prayers were offered. A beautiful morning.

The history of this land is rich and runs deep. You can read more about this cemetery and Ellen's research HERE. 

(Please click on images for an enlarged gallery view)

Low-lying grave markers hide in the high grasses.

Olive stands guard at the circle perimeter. 

Ellen Hunt

All Photos ©David Sorcher 2020

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