Duck Lake: A History of Migration and Tragedy

Duck Lake, located in the Indian reserve of Duck Lake 7 in British Columbia, holds a significant place in the history and natural beauty of the region. Originally known as “See Seep SaKayegan” by the First Nations people, this small body of water gained its name due to the large numbers of ducks that would migrate through the area during the spring and fall seasons.

The lake’s rich history can be traced back to the establishment of the Duck Lake boarding school in 1894. Situated north of Saskatoon in what is now Saskatchewan, this Roman Catholic missionary school played a crucial role in the education of Indigenous children. However, the early years of the school were marred by the prevalence of tuberculosis, which was epidemic at the time. Shockingly, an Indian agent estimated in 1910 that approximately fifty percent of the children sent to the school had succumbed to this deadly disease.

In addition to its historical significance, Duck Lake also serves as an important water source for the surrounding area. In 1964, observation well WSA Duck Lake No. 2 was constructed to a depth of 124.6 meters. This well taps into the coarse-grained Empress Group sands, which are believed to be hydraulically connected to the Hatfield Valley aquifer. This connection ensures a reliable supply of water for the local community, contributing to their sustenance and well-being.

Moreover, Duck Lake’s natural beauty and diverse wildlife make it a picturesque destination for nature enthusiasts. The lake’s serene waters reflect the surrounding landscape, providing a tranquil setting for various outdoor activities. Birdwatchers, in particular, will be delighted by the sight of numerous duck species that still frequent the area during their seasonal migrations.

It is important to acknowledge the historical significance and natural treasures that Duck Lake holds. By understanding its past and appreciating its present, we can foster a deeper connection with this place. Duck Lake not only serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in the past but also stands as a testament to their resilience and strength. Its serene waters and abundant wildlife continue to captivate and inspire those who visit, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter its beauty.

Is Duck Lake A Reserve?

Duck Lake is a reserve. It is specifically referred to as Duck Lake 7 Indian reserve, located in British Columbia, Canada. The reserve is designated for the use and occupancy of the Indigenous people of the area.

Duck Lake 7 Indian reserve is part of the larger system of reserves in Canada, which are areas of land set aside by the government for Indigenous communities. Reserves are intended to provide a place where Indigenous people can live, maintain their cultural practices, and have access to resources such as land, water, and wildlife.

As a reserve, Duck Lake 7 has legal and administrative status, governed by the Indian Act and overseen by the federal government. The reserve is managed by the local Indigenous community, and decisions regarding land use, infrastructure development, and community services are made by the band council.

It is important to note that reserves vary in size and population, with some being quite small and others being larger and more populous. Duck Lake 7 Indian reserve may have its own unique characteristics and features that distinguish it from other reserves in the region.

Duck Lake 7 is a designated reserve in British Columbia, Canada, providing a place for Indigenous people to live and maintain their cultural practices. It is governed by the Indian Act and managed by the local Indigenous community.

Why Is It Called Duck Lake?

Duck Lake is called so due to its association with ducks and their migration patterns. The name “Duck Lake” is an anglicized version of the original First Nations name for the lake, “See Seep SaKayegan.” This name was given by the First Nations people who inhabited the area and observed the large number of ducks that would migrate through the region during the early spring and late fall.

The name “See Seep SaKayegan” translates to “See Seep” meaning ducks and “SaKayegan” meaning lake or body of water. The First Nations people named it so because of the abundance of ducks that would pass through the area during their seasonal migrations.

The presence of ducks in Duck Lake is not only significant in terms of the local ecosystem but also in terms of cultural significance for the First Nations people. Ducks have long been a vital resource for Indigenous communities, providing sustenance through hunting and gathering.

The name “Duck Lake” serves as a reminder of the historical connection between the First Nations people, the land, and the abundance of wildlife that once thrived in the area. It highlights the importance of preserving the natural environment and the cultural heritage associated with it.

Duck Lake is called so because of the multitude of ducks that would migrate through the area, as observed by the First Nations people. The name “See Seep SaKayegan” reflects the Indigenous connection to the land and the significance of ducks as a resource for the local communities.

Where Was Duck Lake Residential School?

The Duck Lake Residential School was located north of Saskatoon, in what is now Saskatchewan, Canada. It was established in 1894 by Roman Catholic missionaries as a boarding school for Indigenous children. The school aimed to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture and eradicate their traditional beliefs and practices.

The exact location of the Duck Lake Residential School was in close proximity to Duck Lake itself, which is situated approximately 90 kilometers north of Saskatoon. The school’s establishment in this area was significant as it allowed for easy access to Indigenous communities residing in the surrounding regions.

During the early years of the school’s operation, tuberculosis was rampant, leading to a high mortality rate among the students. In 1910, an Indian agent estimated that approximately fifty percent of the children sent to the Duck Lake Residential School had succumbed to the disease.

It is important to note that the Duck Lake Residential School is one of many such institutions that were part of the Canadian residential school system. These schools had a profound impact on Indigenous communities, causing immense cultural and psychological trauma that continues to be felt today.

How Deep Is Duck Lake Saskatchewan?

Duck Lake, located in Saskatchewan, has a well known as WSA Duck Lake No. 2. This well was constructed in 1964 and is specifically referred to as Well WSA Duck Lake No. 2. It was drilled to a depth of 124.6 metres. The drilling was done in a type of sand known as Empress Group sands, which have a coarse texture. These sands are believed to be hydraulically connected to the Hatfield Valley aquifer. The purpose of drilling this well was to tap into the water resources present in these sands.

Conclusion

Duck Lake, also known as “See Seep SaKayegan,” holds historical significance as a small body of water that was named after the abundance of ducks that would migrate through the area. The lake was a vital resource for the First Nations people, providing them with sustenance and serving as a focal point for their community.

The establishment of the Duck Lake boarding school in 1894 marked a significant chapter in the area’s history. Unfortunately, the school faced challenges, particularly with the outbreak of tuberculosis among the children in its early years. The devastating impact of the disease resulted in a high mortality rate, underscoring the hardships faced by the Indigenous community during that time.

The construction of the Observation well WSA Duck Lake No. 2 in 1964 added to the understanding of the area’s hydrology. The well was drilled to a depth of 124.6 metres, specifically targeting the coarse grained Empress Group sands. These sands are believed to be hydraulically connected to the Hatfield Valley aquifer, providing valuable insights into the water resources in the region.

Duck Lake encapsulates a rich history that intertwines the natural landscape, Indigenous culture, and the challenges faced by the community. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of the First Nations people and the importance of preserving their heritage.