Tuesday night at the museum

On June 10th, 1800, a bitter dispute between rival factions within the Mohawk Village on the Bay of Quinte escalated into violence and the bloody murder of a father and his son, with others critically wounded. Six Strings is the compelling, revealing and true account of how the Mohawk people conducted their own system of justice long before the Indian Act.

This event represents a moment in time before Indigenous people were obliged to abide by the British colonial court system. Six Strings highlights the testimonies of witnesses to the murders offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the Mohawk people and their complex interactions with the changing world around them. As the investigation unfolds what is revealed is a sophisticated system of traditional justice and a people that embraced reconciliation and forgiveness with the custom of condolence and commitment to move forward.

The accompanying 7 minute film will be extended into a 50 min documentary once funding is secured. The future feature film will draw on the talents of Indigenous artists, historians, musicians, and actors to create a vivid and remarkable view of Mohawk life, the relationship between the British government and the Mohawk Nation, and the complex circumstances that culminated in the fateful events of June10th, 1800.

In addition to the screening of 6 Strings, Callie Hill, Executive Director of Tsi Tyónnheht Onkwawén:na, who will be presenting the film and exhibit.