Classic Images of Canada's First Nations: 1850-1920

by Edward Cavell

This poignant and beautiful record of Canada's First Nations people and their culture, as seen through the eyes of talented photographers, is a fascinating glimpse into Canada's past. Of great historical and aesthetic interest, this collection of photographs captures the diversity and dignity of First Nations during a time of tumultuous change. Assembled by Edward Cavell, a former curator at Banff's Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, the photographs span the period from the infancy of photography to the more sophisticated technology of 1920.

Genres: History

96 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2006

Reviews

[Sylvester (Taking a break in 2023)]

Absolutely fascinating to look at photos of the natives of local places. Ironic to see the lacrosse team (Canada's national sport)in full regalia, and on the next page, in their striped uniforms - 2 worlds colliding, clearly. Favorite photo is of Sampson and Leah Beaver with their daughter Frances Louise on the Kootenay Plains, Alberta (1907). If ever there was an icon of family contentment and parental pride, this photo is it.

[Gabrielle]

Well selected images. I wish there was more information associated with them (even if just to hightlight a lack of context).

[Jonny Phake]

Extremely interesting. A great way to learn.