City of Toronto Faces Scrutiny Over Handling of Ancient Human Remains Discovery

In the Riverdale neighborhood of Toronto, more than nine months have passed since ancient human remains were uncovered. During this time, the City of Toronto has spent close to $200,000 on security monitoring without further steps to secure or study the site. This prolonged inattention has drawn criticism from a Six Nations of the Grand River archaeologist, who questions the city’s commitment and respect for the individuals buried there.

The discovery was made on January 5 by city workers installing a water service line, which anthropologists later identified as containing ancient human remains. Three days after the discovery, the province issued a directive, requiring the city to hire an archaeologist to investigate the nature of the burial site. The location remains fenced and tented, with round-the-clock security.

This area near the Withrow archaeological site was previously regarded by Heritage Toronto as one of the city’s most complex archaeological zones before being excavated. It has historically been significant to First Nations, such as the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Anishinaabe. The site came to wider attention in 1886 during road construction, which unearthed numerous ancient human remains and artifacts.

Tanya Hill-Montour, an archaeology supervisor with Six Nations of the Grand River, noted several procedural concerns regarding the initial response to the discovery. She believes that an assessment should have been conducted prior to the water service line installation. Hill-Montour expressed frustration with what she perceives as a lack of urgency and diligence from the city, especially given the sensitive nature of the site.

According to the city, their archaeological management plan did not predict the likelihood of discoveries in this area, assuming prior residential development had eliminated any relics. However, Hill-Montour has criticized the city’s efforts as being insufficient. Beyond securing the site, she argues that no interim measures have been taken to understand its historical context or significance.

Hill-Montour has voiced her belief that if these remains had belonged to a European settler, the city would have demonstrated greater urgency. While the city’s spokesperson, Laura McQuillan, mentioned delays due to frozen ground conditions, the rationale for subsequent inaction is unclear. McQuillan noted that formal agreements with First Nations were necessary before proceeding but provided no timelines.

Local resident Kristin Briggs confirmed that the site’s distinctive yellow tent is a point of curiosity for passersby. Occasionally, archaeologists visit the site, prompting community sensitivity about the situation. However, Briggs also expressed concern about safety, as a nearby sidewalk is blocked by the site’s perimeter fencing.

Hill-Montour stressed the importance of involving all Indigenous stakeholders in the decision-making process and criticized the prolonged delay as disrespectful. Key decisions, such as whether the remains should be exhumed or preserved on-site, remain unresolved. She urged the city to expedite discussions with involved Indigenous communities to reach a timely and respectful resolution.