The McGillis House – A Métis Heritage Home
Built in 1890 by the family of Alexandre “Catchou” McGillis, this house is a rare surviving example of a typical Métis dwelling from the late 19th century. Located in St. Victor, the home now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the lives of Métis settlers who arrived in the area following their migration from the Red River region.
Constructed using traditional Métis building techniques, the house is made from poplar poles, willow stakes, prairie grasses, and clay plaster. In its original form, windows were covered with scraped antelope hides, while doors were fashioned from shaved buffalo hides—reflecting both resourcefulness and deep ties to the land.
The museum’s exterior is adorned with relics of pioneer life: weathered saddles and bridles, kerosene lanterns, animal traps, and a badger skin stretched on a drying board. Above the entrance, a buffalo skull with feather decorations and intact horns serves as a striking symbol of cultural heritage.
Inside, visitors will find handcrafted furniture, an old spinning wheel, early photographs, and other artifacts that speak to the everyday life of Métis families. The grounds feature additional pioneer tools, including a wooden-tub, hand-operated washing machine, a grindstone, and a buckboard wagon.
Though the sign has faded and the path is now overgrown, the house remains intact. While the site no longer receives regular upkeep, it stands as a powerful reminder of a once-vibrant community. Visitors are welcome—but are encouraged to explore the space with care and respect for its historical and cultural significance.
