History of Birch Island – A Brief Perspective 

• In the early 1500’s European fisherman establishes Fur Trade in the East. The village of Sinmedwe’ek is recognized. (Bell rocks).  The village is comprised of various Bands of Anishnabek people.
   
• In the 1600’s a battle for control over Fur Trade and the land erupts between English and French.  A trading relationship develops between the Anishnabek people of this area and the French.
   
• Hudson Bay Trading Post begins operations in the vicinity of the La Cloche Channel and La Cloche Island. (1670).  In 1783, the Northwest Company begins operations in the general area.  Anishanbek people of the area are employed.
   
• In the mid – 1700’s, a great catastrophy associated with the Fur Trade devastates the village of Sinmedwe’ek.  People from this village disperse to Killarney, Sagamok, M’Chigeeng and other places in the North.  The remaining Anishnabek settle on Wardrope Island (Wiigwaaskinagaa M’nising).
   
• Evidence suggests that the people of Wardrope Island stayed at this settlement for approximately 100 years.
   
• The Timber industry replaces the fur trade industry.  In the mid-1800’s, the settlement moves from Wardrope Island to Old Birch Island (Mainland). Southeast corner of the mainland. In 1836, the bond Head Treaty is signed by chief Shawanosowe
   
•  In 1862, the Manitoulin Treaty is signed by Chief Paibomsai.
   
• In 1850, Chief Wabakekik signs the Robinson-Huron Treaty.
   
• In 1863, the people of Whitefish River Reserve is surveyed and boundaries are set by the provincial land survey.
   
• In 1906, with the introduction of the railway and the prospect of employment the village would relocate to its new location.
   
• In 1906/07, the settlement moves from Old Birch Island to the western part of the mainland, which is the main village that is now known as Whitefish River First Nation.

The people of Whitefish River First Nation have endured great wars, epidemics, the great depression and modern advancements.  They continue to face modern day challenges while retaining their cultural-heritage, legacy and beliefs.