Nova Scotia Archives

Mi'kmaw Teaching and Learning Resources

John Williams, Mi'kmaq Guide, and wife

Photograph in postcard format. "John Williams, very noted Micmac Indian guide and hunter, who died at Shubenacadie about 1890 or 93, and his wife, Magdalene (1840-1931) dau. of Paul Morris; with typical Micmac snowshoes. From photo probably taken about 1886. Postcard published by E.F. Heffler, Halifax."

Date: ca. 1886

Publisher: E.F. Heffler

Reference: Nova Scotia Archives Photo Drawer - Indians (Micmac) - Williams, John and Magdalene / negative 1030

Questions to Consider

  • What do you think is happening in the photograph?



  • Who is shown in the photograph?



  • What type of event is shown in the photograph?



  • What do you think is the center of attention or focus of the photograph?



  • Why do you think this photograph was taken? Who do you think the intended audience was?



  • How do you think the photograph reflects the attitude and values of the time in which it was taken?



  • Do you notice anything unusual or unexpected about the photograph?



If the photograph depicts an event:

  • When do you think it took place?



  • Where do you think it took place?



  • Do you think this is a unique event or something that happened often?



    • If you think the event is unique, then what do you think make it unique?



If the photograph depicts a person or people:

  • Can you name the people in the photograph? What ages do you think they might be?



  • Is the person well known or famous for something in particular?



  • Where do you think the people lived?



  • What do you think the people's main activities were?



  • What sort of things can you tell about the people based on how they are dressed?



Nova Scotia Archives — https://archives.novascotia.ca/teaching-learning/mikmaq/photographs/archives/?ID=43

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