Moose Factory, Ont., commemorating more than 350 years

Celebrating the past and future in Moose Factory Activities will take place in Moose Factory to commemorate the community’s history and to ensure youth learn about their ancestors.

Settlers landed in Moose Factory around 350 years ago, but to Indigenous people, it has been their land for many generations.

The Moose River Heritage and Hospitality Association has a mission to honour the past -- but also to build a future.

A number of activities will take place in the next few days in Moose Factory to commemorate the community’s history and to ensure youth learn about their ancestors.

The events are organized by the Moose River Heritage and Hospitality Association and the More Than 350 Commemoration Committee.

"The land and the rivers are really key or have been really key throughout the generations," said Bernice Kapashesit, co-chair of the More Than 350 Commemoration Committee.

"I just wanted to encourage everybody to come out and, you know, some of the older people can share stories and the younger people can ask questions."

Officials said legacy projects such as the restoration of the old St. Thomas Church will also help with the economic development of the Moose River Region.

And, they said some of the events will be available through the Moose River Heritage and Hospitality Association social media platforms.

"We're livestreaming a number of our events," said Cecil Chabot, acting executive director of Moose River Heritage and Hospitality Association.

"People can participate virtually (and) they can join us for the screening of films by two local filmmakers."

The More Than 350 Commemoration Committee has been hosting events since March 2023 and will hold a closing ceremony in February as it continues to build upon its future while never forgetting its past.