A Sound of Joy

Riley Smith
Jul 10, 2017 · 2 min read

Written by Riley Smith

Riley Smith

Hi there everyone, my name is Riley Smith and I am one of the paddlers on this amazing journey who has the honour to write our first journal entry!

Today the modern voyageurs embarked on a journey from Pembroke Ontario to Deep River in our 38 foot canoe. The morning of May 28th these brave canoers boarded the boat and off they went through waves as wide as the boat and as tall as the paddles. Each brave canoer fought hard battles up river and against head winds, never letting the power of the water stop them. The modern day voyageurs had shown resilience during the 6th day of their journey. Along the way, paddling 56 strokes a minute and going 6 kms an hour, they received many praises and welcomes.

Just as they were 15 km away from arriving at their destination, suddenly a huge sound went off and they were startled (just kidding it’s a car alarm). The modern voyageurs encountered a sweet retired couple at their beach side residence. The couple had set off the alarm to get the attention of the voyageurs and it most definitely worked. While paddling towards the couple the voyageurs counted down their salute and their energy could have been felt for miles. Joy was written all over their faces, they were so pleased to have been stopped just to talk. This couple proceeded to welcome the young voyageurs. They told the crew that previously the area nearby was an old burial ground for voyagers of 1816. It was amazing to interact with community members that we weren’t anticipating meeting up with, and learning such fascinating things from them.

We set off for Ryan’s Campground in Deep River and called it a night after a long, beautiful day of paddling.

Métis Nation of Ontario

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is the government of Métis people and communities in Ontario.

Riley Smith

Written by

Métis Nation of Ontario

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is the government of Métis people and communities in Ontario.

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