Researchers Uncover Valuable Artifacts at Deep River Site

Researchers are uncovering artifacts along the waterfront of Deep River that may reveal insights into the village’s Indigenous history prior to the establishment of the townsite. The initial findings, part of an archaeological assessment led by Courtney Cameron of Cameron Heritage Consulting Limited, aim not only to document the past but also to preserve the remnants of the settlement.

Cameron’s assessment focuses on the area surrounding the Keys Conference Centre and is integrated with a project titled “Finding Their Voices,” spearheaded by Steffanie Adams, a professor at George Brown College’s School of Architectural Studies. During a recent presentation to the town council, Cameron reported, “Interestingly, we found a lot of coal,” highlighting a significant discovery. The presence of coal raises questions about its origins, as the only known source nearby would have been the train tracks, indicating a considerable distance from the site.

The majority of artifacts were located in the southern section of the property, where the historic Brindle cabin once stood. Cameron noted, “That’s where we got a lot of the pre-1944 stuff, and we also got some personal items, and a lot of domestic items.” Among the discoveries were a green glass bottle labeled “Dr. Pfunder’s Medicine for Upset Stomachs,” foundation stones with cement, various metal objects, and a Catholic Rosary Cross made in France, all of which suggest the area’s rich historical tapestry.

Cameron’s findings have prompted her to recommend advancing to a Stage 3 archaeological assessment. This next phase will determine whether the site has sufficient cultural heritage value to warrant preservation measures. She expressed her excitement about the project, noting its uniqueness: “It’s not a site I usually get to work on,” referring to her typical focus on sites dating before 1900. The Deep River site, extending up to 1945, offers a rare opportunity to explore a former Algonquin village, a type of archaeological site not commonly found in Ontario.

Town council members shared in Cameron’s enthusiasm. Councillor Terry Myers remarked, “I find this really exciting. It’s really cool,” while also lamenting the delayed recognition of the village’s historic significance. “It’s a shame that it took us a very long time to start to develop an appreciation for the history of the village that was here before 1945,” he added.

Professor Adams, a granddaughter of the original cabin builders, hopes to utilize immersive technologies such as augmented and virtual reality to create a visual and audio tour of the settlement as it existed before 1945. “The last two years have been about collecting as much information as we could,” she explained, indicating that her team has also partnered with Mackenzie Community School’s Tamarack program to commemorate the cabin of Joseph Adams/Lukus, which once stood near the school.

Adams recalled the significance of a swing that remained at the former cabin site for two decades after its demolition, saying, “It’s about trying to bring that history back.” As discussions continue, Reeve Glenn Doncaster reflected on the broader implications of the town’s history, stating, “The colonization of Renfrew County happened over time, but that’s not what happened in Deep River.” He emphasized the government’s role in expropriating land without relocating Indigenous inhabitants.

When asked about the future of the historic cabin still standing at the shoreline, Adams highlighted its potential as a cultural symbol for the Algonquin community throughout the Ottawa Valley. “I would like to have it protected, and see it protected, for another 50 to 70 years,” she stated, underscoring the importance of safeguarding Indigenous heritage in the region.

As the research progresses, the collaboration between Cameron, Adams, and the town council aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the Indigenous history of Deep River, paving the way for meaningful preservation efforts.