Recommended Reading and Resources
Build your knowledge and confidence in Métis genealogy using these trusted books, academic sources, guides, databases, and community connections.
Overview
This comprehensive resource guide provides carefully curated books, databases, guides, and community connections to support your Métis genealogy research. From foundational histories to practical research tools, these resources will deepen your understanding and enhance your research success.
These books and guides will deepen your understanding of Métis history, community structure, and genealogical methods. They include foundational histories, practical research manuals, annotated bibliographies, and key compendia of family data.
General Métis Genealogy & Community History
The People Who Own Themselves: Aboriginal Ethnogenesis in a Canadian Family, 1660–1900
Explores the history of the Métis in the Hudson's Bay watershed, focusing on kinship, land, and identity, with appendices and bibliographies essential for genealogical research.
Metis Families: A Genealogical Compendium
A multi-volume set (6–11 volumes, depending on edition) listing thousands of Métis family connections, scrip records, and parish register entries. Includes maiden names and detailed indexes for tracing lineages.
The Genealogy of the First Métis Nation: The Development and Dispersal of the Red River Settlement, 1820–1900
Examines the growth of Métis communities at Red River and subsequent westward migrations. Includes tabular data and instructions for tracing land claims and family movements.
Métis Genealogy: Finding Your Roots, a How-To Book
A clear, accessible guide rooted in community practices, focusing on identifying and documenting Métis ancestry. Includes reproducible worksheets and practical tips for beginners.
Discover Your Métis Ancestry
A practical guide to Métis genealogical records and research strategies, with Ontario-specific resources and case studies.
Tracing Your Aboriginal Ancestors in the Prairie Provinces: A Guide to the Records and How to Use Them
An indispensable guide for both beginners and experienced researchers, with a dedicated chapter on Métis resources and practical research strategies.
Annotated Bibliographies & Historiography
Métis Legacy: A Métis Historiography and Annotated Bibliography
An extensive bibliography of Métis history, culture, identity, and genealogy, with sections on women, language, art, and military service. A second volume, Métis Legacy II: Michif Culture, Heritage, and Folkways, expands on cultural resources.
Tips:
- Consult local and regional histories for additional family information, especially for lesser-known communities.
- Use annotated bibliographies (like Métis Legacy) to find articles, theses, and lesser-known sources.
- Check for the latest editions of multi-volume works (such as Morin's compendium) to ensure you have the most complete data.
These practical tools and reference works will guide your step-by-step research into Métis ancestry, community connections, and historical records.
Gabriel Dumont Institute's Métis Genealogical Research Guides
Comprehensive, Métis-specific guides—available free online and in print—explain record types, scrip, parish registers, and research strategies.
- Includes reproducible worksheets, sample forms, and tips for documenting sources
- Key title: Métis Genealogy: Finding Your Roots, a How-To Book by Rose Fleury, Ron Jobin, and Tammy Vallee
Library and Archives Canada (LAC) Métis Genealogy Portal
A central hub for Métis scrip, census, and parish record research, with digitized collections, research guides, and links to major archival holdings.
- Guides through scrip records, RG10 files, parish registers, and census data
- Essential for registry applications
University of Calgary Métis Studies Research Guides
Curated research guides offering book lists, academic article suggestions, and links to archival and digital collections.
- Includes annotated bibliographies and recommendations
- Instructions for accessing rare or specialized sources
Provincial and Regional Guides
Region-specific resources and documentation requirements.
- Métis Nation of Ontario research standards
- Local library genealogy guides
- Community histories and cemetery indexes
Tips for Using Guides and Finding Aids:
- Start with Métis-specific guides before consulting general Canadian genealogy manuals.
- Always check for the latest edition or online update—many guides are revised regularly.
- Combine finding aids with local knowledge: consult Métis community researchers, genealogical societies, and oral historians for leads not found in print.
Many Métis families and communities have published local histories and family books containing oral histories, photographs, genealogical charts, and community memories. These resources are invaluable for connecting your family's story to the broader Métis experience and resolving gaps in the family tree.
Where to Find Métis Family and Local Histories
Local Public Libraries
Especially in the Prairie provinces, northern British Columbia, and the Northwest Territories, public libraries often hold local and regional histories, family books, and community anniversary volumes. Ask for Métis-specific sections or local history collections.
Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI) Bookstore and Library
The GDI is the leading publisher and distributor of Métis-specific books, including family histories, memoirs, and community studies. The GDI Library is one of the most extensive Métis-specific collections in Canada.
Notable GDI Publications:
- Lac Pelletier: My Métis Home by Cecile Blanke
- Stories of the Road Allowance People
- Veterans and Families of the 1885 Northwest Resistance
- Stories of Our People (graphic novel anthology)
- The History of the Métis of Willow Bunch
- Métis Legacy II
Why Use Published Family and Local Histories?
- They provide context for your ancestors' lives—linking personal stories to broader events and community developments.
- Many include oral histories, photographs, and genealogical charts not found in official records.
- They often document migration patterns, kinship networks, and cultural traditions unique to Métis communities.
- Community histories can help resolve conflicting information or fill in gaps where civil or church records are missing.
Important Note:
When using published histories, always check for source citations and compare details with official records. Many of these works are based on oral tradition and community memory, which are invaluable but should be corroborated when possible.
These online databases and digital archives are essential for Métis genealogy, offering indexed records, digitized documents, and community information.
Métis Nation Historical Online Database
A web-based database containing indexed scrip records, family connections, and community information managed by Métis Nation organizations.
- Searchable by name, scrip number, or community
- Includes links to archival sources and digitized documents
- Covers scrip, land claims, and government correspondence
Library and Archives Canada (LAC) Digitized Records
The central repository for Métis scrip, census, parish, and military records in Canada.
- Scrip Records (RG15) - over 15,000 digitized images
- Census Microfilms (1870, 1901, 1906, 1911, 1916)
- Parish Registers (baptisms, marriages, burials)
- Land and River Lot Maps
iPortal: Indigenous Studies Portal
A free, curated index of thousands of Indigenous studies documents, including many Métis-focused articles, books, theses, and reports.
- Searchable by keyword, subject, or community
- Links to full-text resources and digital exhibits
- Covers genealogy, history, language, and culture
Hudson's Bay Company Archives (HBCA)
Employment records, post journals, and account books from the fur trade era, often mentioning Métis families and communities.
- Voyageur contracts and trader lists
- Post correspondence establishing kinship patterns
- Part of Archives of Manitoba
Tips for Using Key Databases:
- Use variant spellings and dit names when searching.
- Check both indexed and scanned images—some records are only available in digitized microfilm.
- Consult finding aids and research guides for each database to maximize search success.
- Contact archives for help with non-digitized or restricted records.
Connecting with other researchers helps break brick walls, share resources, and verify family connections. These online communities offer real-time advice, shared experiences, and access to collective knowledge.
Major Online Forums and Peer Groups
Métis Genealogy Facebook Groups
Multiple active groups exist by province, region, and family focus (e.g., "Métis Genealogy Group," "Red River Métis Heritage," "Métis Nation of Alberta Genealogy"). Excellent for sharing queries, photos of records, and connecting with others researching the same families.
RootsWeb Métis Mailing Lists
Longstanding email-based discussion lists for Métis genealogy. Although less active than in the past, their archives contain years of valuable discussions and research tips.
Reddit: r/MetisMichif
A growing online community for Métis ancestry questions, research help, and cultural discussion. Users often share tips for using databases, verifying scrip records, and connecting with recognized organizations.
Ancestry.com Forums
Dedicated Métis and Indigenous genealogy boards for posting questions, sharing discoveries, and connecting with others building Métis family trees. Access to user-submitted trees and DNA result advice.
How These Communities Help
- Real-time advice from others researching the same families, settlements, or scrip records
- Photo/document sharing for translation, handwriting help, and interpretation
- Tips on navigating archives, DNA testing, and registry applications
- Warnings about fraudulent organizations and guidance on legitimate membership processes
Tips for Using Online Forums Effectively:
- Be specific in your queries: Include names, dates, places, and what you've already checked.
- Respect privacy: Avoid posting sensitive family details in public groups; use direct messages for confidential information.
- Check group rules: Each forum may have its own guidelines for posting and etiquette.
- Verify information: Always cross-check advice and shared records with official sources or recognized genealogical standards.
To formally register as Métis or to understand documentation processes, contact your provincial or local Métis organization. Each registry operates according to the Métis National Council's "National Definition" and may have specific requirements for documentation and genealogical proof.
MNA
Métis Nation of Alberta
MNS
Métis Nation–Saskatchewan
MMF
Manitoba Métis Federation
MNO
Métis Nation of Ontario
MNBC
Métis Nation British Columbia
National Definition and Core Requirements
The Métis National Council's "National Definition" of Métis requires that applicants:
- Self-identify as Métis
- Are distinct from other Indigenous peoples
- Provide genealogical proof of historic Métis Nation ancestry
- Are accepted by the Métis Nation community
Application Process
Required documentation typically includes:
- Completed genealogy chart or family tree
- Proof of birth (long-form birth certificate)
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- Marriage certificates
- Census records, scrip or land grant records
- Parish registers or affidavits
How to Get Started:
- Contact your local or provincial Métis organization for the most current application forms and guidance.
- Many registries offer online portals for application tracking and document uploads.
- Historic documents may use terms other than "Métis" (e.g., Half-Breed, Bois-Brûlé, French Breed, etc.)—these can be accepted as proof when supported by other evidence.
Research is easier—and more rewarding—with support from knowledgeable people and institutions. These resources can help you overcome obstacles, find hidden records, and interpret complex family histories.
Professional Genealogists
- Specialists in Métis, fur trade, and Indigenous records
- Help with "brick wall" cases and scrip file analysis
- Assistance with registry application documentation
- Accredited by APG or Canadian Association of Professional Heritage Consultants
Elders and Community Historians
- Invaluable for confirming family stories and clarifying name variants
- Provide oral histories and cultural context
- Information not found in written records
- Approach with respect; consider offering tobacco or traditional gift
Archivists at Key Repositories
Archivists are experts in navigating collections and can help you locate hard-to-find records. Major repositories include:
- Gabriel Dumont Institute (Saskatoon): Extensive Métis-specific archives and genealogical resources
- Société historique de Saint-Boniface (Winnipeg): Largest collection of Red River and Manitoba Métis records
- Hudson's Bay Company Archives (Winnipeg): Fur trade employment records and contracts
- Provincial Archives: Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta
- Library and Archives Canada (Ottawa): National scrip, census, and military records
- Local libraries and museums: Genealogy volunteers and local history experts
Tips for Getting the Most from Expert Help
- Prepare your questions in advance and bring copies of relevant documents.
- Be clear about what you've already searched to avoid duplication.
- Respect privacy, cultural protocols, and institutional rules.
- Follow up with a thank-you note or acknowledgment in your research.
Stay connected, learn new skills, and build relationships through these ongoing opportunities. Workshops and community events offer hands-on learning, expert guidance, and a chance to connect with other Métis researchers and families.
Métis Local and Regional Organizations
- Regular genealogy and history workshops
- Cultural programming and sashing ceremonies
- Métis Rendezvous and annual gatherings
- Opportunities to meet with Elders and historians
Public Libraries and Archives
- Indigenous and Métis genealogy days
- Drop-in research clinics and special workshops
- Library and Archives Canada online presentations
- "Connection to Kith and Kin" programs
Genealogical Societies
- Webinars on Métis and Indigenous genealogy
- Certificate courses (e.g., Saskatchewan Genealogical Society's Indigenous Researcher Certificate)
- Monthly webinars and virtual conferences
- "Ask an expert" sessions
- Canadian genealogical societies events and workshops
Specialized Events
- Land-based learning workshops
- Family culture camps with genealogy components
- Annual Métis festivals and community feasts
- Gabriel Dumont Institute workshops
Tips for Participating:
- Check event calendars on Métis Nation, library, and genealogical society websites for upcoming workshops and webinars.
- Register early—many events have limited space or require advance sign-up for mailed materials.
- Bring your research questions, family charts, and any documents you want help interpreting.
- Follow up with presenters or organizers for further resources and support.
How to Use This Resource List Effectively
- Choose one or two key books to begin deepening your context knowledge
- Use online databases for day-to-day research
- Visit archives (in-person or digitally) for original records
- Connect with others to share progress, frustrations, and breakthroughs
- Attend a webinar or workshop to learn and stay motivated