When the Spirit Calls: The Killings at Hannah Bay

In January 1832, an elderly Cree man named Quapakay was instructed by the spirits of a shaking tent to spoil a Hudson's Bay Company goose hunting station at Hannah Bay, resulting in the deaths of sixteen occupants. This tragedy, now known as the Hannah Bay Massacre, explores the social, cultural, and historical context of the event through the lens of the Hudson Bay Company's archival records and Cree oral traditions. The book aims to uncover the circumstances, behaviors, and attitudes that led to the slaughter and sheds light on the racist attitudes held by the white settler population towards Indigenous people.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2023
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

In the depths of January 1832, nestled in the southern reaches of Ontario's James Bay, an elderly Cree man named Quapakay received a chilling message from the spirits inhabiting a trembling tent. According to these ethereal beings, his survival during the impending winter hinged on a perilous act: the destruction of the Hudson's Bay Company's goose hunting station at Hannah Bay. Driven by the guidance of the spirits, Quapakay and his sons embarked on this ill-fated mission, resulting in the tragic loss of sixteen lives within the confines of the Hannah Bay post. This horrific event, now known as the Hannah Bay Massacre, left a lasting impact on the community, encompassing fur trader William Corrigal, the postmaster and his wife, and seven other Indigenous individuals.

To unravel the intricate tapestry of events that unfolded during this tragic period, Edward J. Hedican, a dedicated researcher, has delved into the archives of the Hudson's Bay Company and consulted with Cree oral traditions. His extensive inquiry spans over forty years, from the mid-1970s to the present day. In his book, When the Spirit Calls, Hedican sets out to uncover the circumstances, behaviors, and attitudes that led to the slaughter. Through meticulous research and thoughtful analysis, he sheds light on the deeply entrenched racist attitudes held by the white settler population towards Indigenous people, a legacy that echoes through our colonial past and persists even today.

The Hannah Bay Massacre serves as a poignant reminder of the complex and often fraught relationship between Indigenous peoples and the colonial powers that sought to dominate and control them. It highlights the devastating consequences of prejudice, discrimination, and the disregard for human life. By examining the events of the past, we can gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by Indigenous communities and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Through his book, When the Spirit Calls, Edward J. Hedican has made a significant contribution to our understanding of history and the ongoing struggles of Indigenous peoples. His dedication to uncovering the truth and promoting empathy and understanding is a testament to the power of research and storytelling. As we continue to navigate the complexities of our shared past, it is essential to remember the lessons learned from events like the Hannah Bay Massacre and to work towards a future where diversity and inclusivity are celebrated and valued.

Weight: 818g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487546663