Keeping tradition alive: Alberta man learns how to build Métis Red River carts
George Moritz says it was his wife, Gladys Bigelow, who inspired him to learn how to build Red River carts, which were invented by the Métis.
"The Red River cart provided lots for [the Métis people], essential shelter at night and protection and safety," said Bigelow, who is Métis.Red River carts can travel an average of 40 kilometres per day and even cross water. What's unique about the carts is that they're made entirely from wood — no metal nails or screws holding them together.The wheels are close to one-and-a-half metres tall with 10-inch hubs made of birch, while the spokes are made of pine.
"If you look at it closely, it has a six degree dish. It just gives the carriage stabilization on the prairies," Moritz said.Bernie Ouellette, president of the Métis Nation Local 845, says another unique aspect of the carts is the sound of wood rubbing against wood when the cart is moving. Each cart may have a distinctive sound.
"They used to say that you could tell my cousin was coming because I could tell the sound of his cart," Ouellette said.
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