Niagara An Aboriginal Center of Trade   By: Peter A. Porter (1853-1925)

Niagara An Aboriginal Center of Trade by Peter A. Porter is a thought-provoking exploration of the historical significance and economic importance of Niagara as an Aboriginal center of trade. Porter expertly delves into the multifaceted nature of this essential trading hub, shedding light on its role in shaping early Canadian history.

Throughout the book, Porter extensively analyzes the geographical and natural advantages that made Niagara a prominent gathering place for Aboriginal peoples. The abundant resources found in the region, including fertile land, waterways, and access to transportation networks, provided an ideal setting for trade and economic activities that brought diverse Indigenous communities together.

What makes Porter's work particularly notable is his ability to integrate primary sources, including maps, documents, photographs, and Aboriginal oral traditions. These sources add credibility and richness to the narrative, helping readers understand the significance of the different Indigenous groups that frequented Niagara and their intricate trading networks. Porter also demonstrates a deep respect for Indigenous knowledge systems and their contributions to the development of commerce in the region.

The book's organization and structure are commendable. Porter guides readers through various chapters, each focusing on a specific aspect of Niagara's trade history. This approach allows readers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the different commodities traded, the methods employed, and the social dynamics at play within these indigenous trading systems.

Porter's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it an enjoyable read for both history enthusiasts and scholars alike. The author's passion for the subject matter shines through, as he skillfully narrates the intersections of economic, cultural, and political forces that shaped the Aboriginal trading practices at Niagara. His attention to detail and rigorous research elevate the book, making it a significant contribution to the field of Indigenous studies.

One minor critique of the book is that the high volume of information presented can occasionally become overwhelming or repetitive. However, this minor flaw does not diminish the overall quality and importance of Porter's work.

In conclusion, Niagara An Aboriginal Center of Trade by Peter A. Porter is an insightful and meticulously researched account of Niagara's historical and economic significance as an Aboriginal center of trade. Porter successfully highlights the crucial role that Indigenous communities played in shaping the region's economic landscape, illuminating a lesser-known aspect of Canadian history. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Indigenous trade, the Niagara region, or the intersections of culture, commerce, and geography.

First Page:

Before 1600, everything else that we think we know, and like to quote about Niagara, is only Indian Myth or Tradition; possibly handed down for Ages, orally, from generation to generation, amongst the Aborigines; or, quite as probable, it is the invention of some Indian or White man Mythologist of recent times; the presumption in favor of the latter being strengthened, when no mention of the legend, not even the slightest reference thereto, is to be found in any of the writings of any of the authors, who (either through personal visits to the Tribes living comparatively near to the Cataract, or from narrations told to them by Indians living elsewhere on this Continent) had learnt their facts at first hand, and had then duly recorded them, until long after the beginning of the eighteenth Century... Continue reading book >>