Celebrate the diversity, history and achievements of Indigenous people in Canada
This engaging and thought-provoking space shares the stories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Canada, from time immemorial to the present day. Through more than 2,000 cultiral objects, images and documents, the First Peoples Hall celebrates centuries of history and achievement in fields as diverse as fishing, agriculture, academia, the arts, science, sports, and politics.
Developed in association with Indigenous scholars, advisors and artists, the First Peoples Hall features some of the oldest cultural objects in the care of the Museum along with many contemporary ones that speak to the living cultures and traditions of Indigenous people. Visitors will see early innovations such as Inuit snow goggles, examples of diverse Indigenous regalia from across Canada, and iconic artworks like Sky Woman by Shelley Niro (Hodinohso;ni).
Acknowledging the many debts owed to the first inhabitants of the land we call Canada, this expansive exhibition also explores several dark chapters from our colonial history and the resistance and resilience of Indigenous people.
Image at top of page:
Wally Dion (Saulteaux, Yellow Quill First Nation), Starblanket II, 2007, metal, copper, brass, plastic, lead, Canadian Museum of History V-F-275.
Suggested visit: 60 minutes
To get the most out of a visit to the First Peoples Hall, we suggest giving yourself about 60 minutes to explore. Guided tours are also available for groups. Learn more.
Featured video
First Peoples Hall
A tour of objects, artworks and stories from First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.
Image gallery
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Admission to the Canadian Museum of History is always free for Indigenous Peoples, including First Nations, Inuit and Métis. Learn more about admission.
