Muscowequan Indian Residential School, National historic site in Lestock, Canada
Muscowequan Indian Residential School is a three-story brick structure built as a former residential institution for Indigenous students, containing classrooms, dormitories, and agricultural lands on its expansive grounds. The building retains much of its original layout from when students lived and studied within its walls.
Founded in 1889 as Touchwood Hills Mission by the Qu'Appelle Oblates, the school later became integrated into Canada's federal residential school system. It operated for over a century until its closure in 1997, serving Indigenous students during this extended period.
The building holds profound meaning for Indigenous communities as it stands as a testament to the suppression of their languages, traditions, and family structures across generations.
The property is maintained by the Muskowekwan First Nation, which has taken steps to protect the structure and its grounds. Visitors should inquire in advance about access to the site, as restoration work continues and visiting may require special arrangements.
Nineteen unmarked graves were discovered behind the student residence, now carefully documented and protected as part of the site's preservation efforts. The discovery shed light on previously undocumented deaths that occurred at the school.
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