Cairn Island Project

Cairn Interpretation Site Project

Tsitkatsinakwahere Cairn Island - History

Cairn Island has archaeological and traditional narrative evidence of use by Indigenous Peoples of the St. Lawrence River valley for centuries. The Cairn was erected on the island to commemorate the efforts of Scottish-Canadian militia in the area during the rebellions of 1837-38 in Upper Canada. Thus, elements of the island, it’s history and use represent the histories of both the spiritual value and use of the place by Indigenous Peoples, as well as the 19th Century military defense of the area by Great Britain.

Parks Canada Agency (PCA) manages national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas on behalf of Canadians and offers a variety of recreational activities and learning experiences. The agency’s vision states, “Canada’s treasured natural and historic places will be a living legacy, connecting hearts and minds to a stronger, deeper understanding of the very essence of Canada.” Interpretation plays a key role in achieving this vision by connecting Canadians to their heritage, by providing a quality visitor experience, and by promoting stewardship of natural and cultural resources.

As part of the Letter of Understanding between Parks Canada, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and the Township of South Glengarry, Parks Canada will contribute funds towards the development and delivery of interpretation and education products while incorporating the requirements of the Letter of Understanding as well as the Joint Communication Strategy.

Led by consultants from Avaanz Ltd, the Township of South Glengarry and Mohawk Council of Akwesasne hosted the following public consultation and information sessions regarding Cairn Island. Participants learned about the sacred historical connection of the island to the Mohawks of Akwesasne through a presentation style consultation session. Following the presentation, attendees participated in a Q & A and story sharing session about the island and its significance to each community. Thank you to everyone that participated, it will help inform the interpretation site options. 

The following consultation sessions have taken place as part of this project:

• South Glengarry In-Person Consultation: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
• Akwesasne Virtual Consultation Session: Wednesday, February 25, 2025
• Akwesasne In-Person Consultation Sessions
  • SRMT Seniors Centre, Wednesday, March 5
  • St. Regis Rec, Wednesday, March 12
• South Glengarry Virtual Consultation: Thursday, March 6, 2025
• Feedback and comment period closed on April 18. Those that were unable to attend the consultations and/or had further comments were welcomed to submit comments to the Avaanz Ltd. consultants from February 18, to April 19, 2025. 

View consultation presentation here: Cairn Island Consultation Presentation 

Project Next Steps:

April to June, 2025

Avaanz Ltd. will be reviewing all feedback and sharing with the Project Team to compile interpretation site options. 

June 2025

The options will be presented to the respective Councils for comment. 

The current project is funded by Parks Canada, this includes the consultation and interpretation site options. Once this component of the project is complete, future work on the project including the implementation of interpretation site(s) options will be based on funding opportunities available. 

Project Contact Information 
Sherry-Lynn Harbers
General Manager of Parks, Recreation and Culture
slharbers@southglengarry.com