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 Final Report:

Avaanz Ltd. provided a presentation at the June 9, 2025 Council meeting outlining the interpretation options and a draft report was provided to Council. Avaanz Ltd. also provided a presentation to the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne on June 23, 2025.

The final report was accepted by South Glengarry Council at the July 14, 2025 Council meeting. The report can be viewed here: Cairn Interpretation Site Final Report - Council Meeting - July 14, 2025

Next Steps

This concludes the consultation portion of this project.

Parks Canada made a financial commitment to this project in 2016. At the time, the intention for the project was to include the consultation and findings portion and the establishment of the interpretation.

Due to inflation, the funding does not capture the entirety of the original project and the financial commitment from Parks Canada has covered the consultation and reporting portion.

The project team, being South Glengarry, Akwesasne and Parks Canada, will continue to work together to establish a funding plan with the interested parties for both Councils to consider in the future for the development of interpretation(s).