OF THE POLAR SEA. 



121 



The original character of the Crees must 

 have been much modified by their long 

 intercourse with Europeans ; hence it is to 

 be understood, that we confine ourselves in 

 the following sketch to their present condi- 



Moose-deer Indians ; hence the name of the factory 

 and river on which it is built. The name Knisteneaux, 

 Kristeneaux, or Killisteneaux, was anciently applied 

 to a tribe of Crees, now termed Maskegons, who in- 

 habit the river Winipeg. This small tribe still retains 

 the peculiarities of customs and dress, for which it was 

 remarkable many years ago, as mentioned by Mr. 

 Henry, in the interesting account of his journeys in 

 these countries. They are said to be great rascals. 

 The great body of the Crees were at that time named 

 Opimmitish Ininiwuc, or Men of the Woods. It 

 would, however, be an endless task to attempt to de- 

 termine the precise people designated by the early 

 French writers. Every small band, naming itself 

 from its hunting grounds, was described as a different 

 nation. The Chippeways, who frequented the Lake 

 of the Woods were named from a particular act of 

 pillage — Pilliers, or Robbers ; and the name Saulteurs, 

 applied to a principal band that frequented the Sault 

 St. Marie, has been by degrees extended to the whole 

 tribe. It is frequently pronounced and written Sotoos. 



