Zainab Al-Mehdar
Shawville Nov 24, 2021
Paul Bourke, a retired commercial fisherman, living in British Columbia, recently donated his 20-year-old 13 inch Birch Bark canoe to the Municipality of Shawville in memory of his brother Michael Bourke. He chose Shawville because, although he never lived here himself, he would visit during . . .
the summers and has fond memories of visiting relatives. Currently his father, grandfather and grandmother are buried in the Shawville Anglican cemetery.
The canoe is placed in the trophy room at the hockey arena/sports complex in Shawville. When Bourke initially spoke to the MRC Pontiac, he said he was quite pleased with the fast response he got and within 24hrs was told that in fact, Shawville would be happy to have it.
“I wanted to pay tribute to my brother and also I didn’t want to sell it for money. I wanted to find a home for it,” said Bourke.
Initially, the canoe was commissioned in 1973, made by Grand Chief William Commanda in Kitigan Zibi, Maniwaki, the commission was inspired by his late brother Michael.
Commanda was a well-known artist and was recently honoured by the City of Ottawa, which just renamed a bridge after him. “Perhaps this canoe will be a small step towards reconciliation with our indigenous brothers and sisters,” said Bourke.
Before its final resting place, the canoe was picked up from Wakefield and brought to Shawville by Bill Hobbs. Bourke told The Equity that they initially had hoped to install it at City Hall, however it was too big for that location.
For community members hoping to see the canoe, it can be found at 215 Lang Street.
