The blossoming of Métis society and culture in the 19th century marked a fascinating and colourful era in western Canadian history. Drawing from journals and contemporary sources, Irene Ternier Gordon presents a vivid account of Métis life in the area that is now Saskatchewan and Alberta. Here are the stories of the masters of the plains—Métis buffalo hunters, traders and entrepreneurs like Louis Goulet, Norbert Welsh and the legendary Gabriel Dumont. Many enjoyed lives of freedom and adventure, yet also faced heartbreak as their way of life came to an end. From the delightful details of marriage customs, feasts and fancy clothing to the sad consequences of the events of 1885, this book is a vivid chronicle of Métis life.

Irene Ternier Gordon lives along the Assiniboine River in Headingley, Manitoba. She has had a passion for history and writing since childhood. After a career as a teacher-librarian, she became a freelance writer in 1998. She shares Grey Owl`s love of canoeing in the wilderness and also enjoys skiing, sailing, hiking, swimming and travelling. Above all, she enjoys spending time with her two young grandsons, Jesse and Riley.

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