Regalia Through Time: Reclaiming the Threads of Our Mi’kmaq History

Over the past two years, Metepenagiag Heritage Park has been honoured to lead a powerful journey through the history of Mi’kmaq regalia. The Regalia Through Time project explores how Mi’kmaq clothing and design have evolved across generations—from our pre-contact ancestors to the 19th and 20th centuries. Guided by Mi’kmaq values, knowledge, and voices from our own people, this research is helping us reconnect with the rich material culture that has always been a part of who we are.

Led by researchers Rebecca Dunnett and Oakley Wysote, the project began by identifying major historical periods where shifts in materials and designs reflected broader cultural changes. Through museum visits, archival research, community conversations, and comparisons with other Woodland nations, we traced the transformation of regalia—from traditional leather garments to the introduction of European textiles like wool stroud, and the continued creativity shown in beadwork, quillwork, feathered accessories, and hand-sewn garments.

Some of our research focused on surviving examples of regalia—such as chief coats, moccasins, leggings, and peak hats—housed in museums across Canada and the U.S. Visits to the Nova Scotia Museum, Canadian Museum of History, and the National Museum of the American Indian offered valuable opportunities to examine these garments up close. We were especially grateful to discover new sources, such as the McCord Stewart Museum, which generously shared their knowledge of 19th-century Mi’kmaq clothing.

Pre-contact research proved more challenging due to the scarcity of surviving artifacts. But by turning to Mi’kmaq oral stories, linguistic traditions, and comparative analysis with other tribes, Rebecca and Oakley uncovered exciting theories about how regalia may have looked, felt, and functioned in everyday life and ceremonial roles. While many questions remain, these stories deepen our understanding of Mi’kmaq identity and innovation.

This project has not only uncovered historical knowledge—it has sparked cultural pride and interest within our Mi’kmaq community. Elders, artists, and youth have shared their stories and insights, helping shape the direction of what comes next: Phase II, where we’ll begin the hands-on work of recreating traditional garments using authentic materials and techniques.

There’s still much more to explore, and we’re excited to continue walking this path with our Mi’kmaq people.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Whose contribution made this research possible.