Abstract

For as long as 5000 years preceding European contact, natives were involved in the long-distance circulation of Mistassini quartzite obtained at the Colline Blanche, on the Temiscamie River in central Quebec. This paper focuses on the most recent period, from about 1300 years ago until the disruption or reorientation of trade networks in the 17th century AD. The potential role of the 'Mistassins,' local residents referred to in 17th and 18th century Jesuit documents, in the production of this stone for trade is examined, based on recent archaeological excavations at several sites in the general area of the source. The paper presents information on the organization and logistics of this production, and discusses questions of local use and control of this resource by 'les Mistassins.'