The Life of a Teacher in Eeyou Istchee: The Collection of Mary Mitchell by Sarah Small, Young Canada Works Intern

         In 2016 the Archives at Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute received a collection of photographs, teaching material, and memoirs collected and written by Mary Mitchell (Image 1).  As a young adult Mary was eager to make a difference in the lives of others, as well to make a life for herself so she studied to become a teacher and started her career in the mid-1950s.  Mary began teaching in southern Ontario, however the easy routine of classroom life in the urban environment prompted her to search for a new adventure in an exotic and remote location.  Mary realized this dream when she accepted a teaching position in Moosonee in 1958.  This decision encouraged Mary to continue teaching in Eeyou Istchee, which she did on and off until 1973.  

(Image 1: Mary Mitchell. Photographer: Unknown)

Mary Mitchell in Moosonee 1958-1959:

         Mary’s eagerness for a new challenge compelled her to send out applications to “places that [she] imagined to be very remote from Scarborough”, despite knowing nothing about them.  She soon received a call from the school in Moosonee for a position in a junior room (Grades 1-4).   After 24 hours of deliberations Mary accepted the position and set off for Moosonee (Image 2) by train.  The next year was a challenge for Mary but she soon settled into northern life.  After considering her career goals Mary resigned from her position in the spring of 1959 and went home to London, Ontario to begin new studies at the London Bible Institute. 

(Image 2: Moosonee Photos. Photographer: Mary Mitchell)

Mary Mitchell in Eastmain 1962-1969:

          Only three years later, Mary returned to the James Bay region in 1962, when she began teaching in Eastmain (Image 3).  After teaching in Eastmain for six years, Mary realized that the seventh would be her last and she left in June 1969 to realize her dream of completing a bachelor’s degree.

(Image 3: Eastmain Clinic and Band Office. Photographer: Mary Mitchell)

Mary Mitchell in Fort George (Chisasibi) 1972 – 1973:

          After completing an undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto, Mary was once again called back to the north.  In the fall of 1972 Mary arrived in Fort George (Chisasibi) to begin another school year.  Mary only stayed in Fort George (Image 4) for one year, leaving in the spring of 1973 to take up a position as a classroom consultant in Thunder Bay for the following fall.  

(Image 3: Fort George Photos. Photographer: Mary Mitchell)