The Portage Dam and Second Bridge Sites were
documented as part of a collaborative project by Public
Works and Government Services Canada and the Dokis First
Nation to restore the historic Voyageur Trail, a portage on the
French River. Before the railways, the canoe was the fastest way to transport goods and
people, and the French River was part of an extensive trade and travel
network. Native people used the route for at least a
millennium, Samuel de Champlain and Etienne Brule
traveled it in 1615, and later, countless explorers and
fur traders made use of the river to access Lake Huron and
points west. Survey and test excavations of the portage
revealed evidence of precontact, historic Aboriginal, and
EuroCanadian occupations spanning at least 2900 years,
from ca. 900 B.C. to the 20th century. The survey also re-discovered and
documented two chaudieres, circular depressions in
the bedrock of spiritual significance to the Dokis people.
The project catalogued the
cultural resources around the Voyageur Trail and contributed to
planning for its restoration. It has also added
to our knowledge about past uses of the French River, by giving us
glimpses into these temporary trade-route camps.
Who are We
Established in 2003, Timmins Martelle Heritage Consultants Inc. (TMHC) provides archaeological and heritage consulting services to land developers, engineers, municipalities and First Nations communities across Ontario. The company has grown significantly since its founding, employing over 40 seasonal staff and completing over 100 projects ranging from small Stage 1 and 2 assessments of proposed development properties, to the excavation of a large, multiple occupation Iroquoian village dating to the 15th century.
By building on the foundation of over 30 years of progressive and responsible experience in heritage planning, archaeological assessments, research projects and First Nations consultation, TMHC offers informed, high quality professional advice, training and assessment services. Drawing on their previous experience in archaeological consulting, construction, government and university teaching, Peter Timmins and Holly Martelle, the principals of TMHC have an excellent understanding of the needs and concerns of our clients. As former Heritage Planners with the Ontario Ministry of Culture, Timmins and Martelle have a comprehensive knowledge of planning and development legislation and practices.
TMHC's investments in research and development and computer technology allows client needs to be addressed efficiently and professionally, while maintaining high standards, fostering cooperative relationships with stakeholders, and contributing to the preservation of Ontario's heritage.