Small boat constructed of birch bark and cedar held together with tree roots and tar. Although it was designed and first used by the native populations of North America, the canoe became a very important means of transportation for early fur traders and explorers as well. The canoe has no standard size and, during the fur trade era, could range in size from 40 foot cargo vessels to smaller, sleeker 2-4 passenger versions which were much more efficient and maneuverable.
Ceintures Flechées: A hand woven sash or belt worn about the waist, typically made of bright colours such as red, yellow, blue, white and black it is also known as the Métis or Voyageur sash. The art of weaving the sash was passed on by French Canadians to the Voyageurs who themselves passed it on to the Métis. Valued for its practicality and versatility, the voyageurs generally wrapped it around their midsection to provide extra back support while portaging or hauling their packs up steep embankments, it could also be used as a rope to pull objects with. Today the sash is worn by members of the Métis nation as a symbol of their pride and nationhood.
