Page "Gabriel Dumont (Métis leader)" Paragraph 1

Dumont was a grandson of the French Canadian Jean-Baptiste Dumont and his Sarcee-Crow wife, Josette.

He was the second son of Isidore Dumont and Louise Laframboise.

The family were at various times involved in farming, trading, hunting, and trapping in what is now the province of Saskatchewan.

Gabriel was raised a Métis, learning both French Catholic and Cree customs.

By the time he was 12, he was considered an accomplished shot with both gun and bow, and was well known as a master horseman.

In 1848, the Dumont family moved south to the area where Regina, Saskatchewan, would later be founded.

Dumont, and his older brother Isidore, became buffalo hunters.

Over time, Dumont learned six languages, and established a reputation as a guide, hunter and interpreter.

He was also famed for his drinking and gambling.

Dumont participated in skirmishes with First Nations, including the Blackfoot and Sioux.