Three Indigenous Treaty Markers installed across Hamilton

HAMILTON, ON – In partnership with the Moccasin Identifier initiative, the City of Hamilton has installed three Indigenous Treaty Markers across the city as part of a public art and education initiative to provide residents with an opportunity to learn more about Indigenous Peoples and our shared history.

New public art installations offer residents opportunity to learn and reflect during Treaties Recognition Week

The markers honour the history, rights, languages and cultures of First Peoples of Canada. Made from granite, each marker is inspired by a historical and unique moccasin design that represents a unique Indigenous culture and tradition. The markers use moccasin artwork and interpretive plaques to tell their stories and encourage residents to pause, reflect and learn more about our shared responsibility to advance reconciliation.

"Treaties Recognition Week reminds us that we all share a responsibility to learn about and honour the Treaties that shape our community and our relationships with Indigenous Peoples," said Mayor Andrea Horwath. "Through our partnership with Moccasin Identifier, we invite residents to reflect on the rich history of the land we walk on every day, honour the Indigenous Peoples who have cared for it for generations and deepen their understanding of the Treaty responsibilities we all share."

"We are thrilled to partner with the City of Hamilton to bring these vital treaty markers to fruition during Treaties Recognition Week," said Laurie Froman, Executive Director of The Moccasin Identifier. "Placing these unique historical designs at key civic hubs allows everyday travelers, families and students to pause and connect with the deep ancestral histories of the land they walk on. These markers are not just art installations; they are interactive pedagogical tools that challenge us to uphold our shared treaty responsibilities. The addition of the Pier 7 gathering space in 2027 will create a permanent venue to deepen this community learning and celebration." 

Residents can view the Treaty Markers at the following locations:

1. City Hall – Anishinaabe Moccasin Treaty Marker

This Treaty Marker features an Anishinaabe moccasin from the period 1700 to 1799 CE. It honours the Anishinaabe Peoples, whose ancestral territories span much of Ontario and the Great Lakes region.

Inspired by an 18th-century pair of moccasins from the Bata Shoe Museum, the design reflects the craftsmanship, cultural traditions and connections shared among First Nations through trade, diplomacy and alliances. The marker highlights the importance of caring for the land, maintaining relationships and honouring shared responsibilities rooted in Indigenous traditions.

The marker reminds residents of the enduring presence of Anishinaabe Peoples and the importance of respecting Treaty relationships and responsibilities today.

2. Dundurn Castle Grounds – Seneca Moccasin Treaty Marker

Representing the Seneca Nation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy during the period 1850 to 1900 CE, this treaty marker is inspired by a late-19th-century pair of moccasins from the Bata Shoe Museum. The design features colourful floral beadwork and elements associated with the Niagara Style. It reflects the craftsmanship of First Nations artisans, particularly Seneca and Tuscarora women.

The marker highlights how Indigenous makers adapted to changing economic conditions while preserving their cultural identity, traditions and knowledge. It also reminds residents of the enduring presence of Haudenosaunee Peoples and their ongoing Treaty relationships and responsibilities.

3. Waterfront Discovery Centre Hamilton Public Library Branch – Wendat Moccasin Treaty Marker

This Treaty Marker represents the Wendat people from approximately 1830 CE, whose ancestral homelands include much of southern and central Ontario.

Historically known for their leadership in trade, agriculture and diplomacy, the Wendat maintained their cultural traditions and connections to the land despite displacement and the impacts of colonial expansion.

The moccasin symbolizes Wendat resilience, cultural identity and craftsmanship, blending traditional Indigenous techniques with materials introduced through trade. The marker encourages residents to reflect on the enduring connections Indigenous Peoples have to the land and our shared responsibility to honour Treaty relationships.

The next chapter

In late 2027, each Treaty Marker throughout the city will be updated with information directing visitors to the Treaty Place. The Treaty Place will serve as a dedicated gathering space and will provide an opportunity to learn about the Indigenous Peoples of this land in which we stand today. The space will also support future activities designed to build Treaty awareness and deepen understanding of Treaty responsibilities, Indigenous relationships to the land and the history of Treaties, including the promises made and broken.

Together, these initiatives reflect the City’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation through continuous learning, meaningful engagement and strong partnerships with Indigenous communities.

Quick facts:

• The designs are rooted in real moccasins and the histories, cultures and knowledge connected to them. 

• The original Ontario moccasins were designed by Indigenous artist Philip Cote, who researched historical moccasins from the Bata Shoe Museum’s collection and translated them into drawings, which became reusable stencils.

• Moccasin Identifier is a First Nations-led initiative dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of Indigenous Treaties, history and relationships to the land. The City of Hamilton began its partnership with Moccasin Identifier in 2025.

• Treaties Recognition Week is observed annually during the first week of November.

Learn more:

• Webpage: City of Hamilton Indigenous Relations
• Webpage: Moccasin Identifier Initiative