Edward Francis Wilson 
Missionary Work Among the Ojebway Indians 

In ‘Missionary Work Among the Ojebway Indians’ written by Edward Francis Wilson, readers are taken on a detailed and insightful journey into the world of missionary work in the Ojibwe community. Wilson’s narrative style is both engaging and informative, providing a first-hand account of his experiences within the Ojibwe culture. Through his interactions with the Ojibwe people, Wilson sheds light on their traditions, beliefs, and way of life, offering a unique perspective on indigenous cultures in the 19th century. The book is not only a historical record but also a reflection on the complexities of cross-cultural communication and the challenges faced by missionaries of that time. Wilson’s eloquent prose and empathetic approach make this book a valuable contribution to both literature and historical studies. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the Ojibwe people and the important role of missionaries in shaping indigenous communities. ‘Missionary Work Among the Ojebway Indians’ is a must-read for anyone interested in Native American history and cultural exchanges.

About the author

Edward Francis Wilson (1844–1915) was an English missionary and linguist who significantly contributed to the study and support of the Ojebway (Ojibwa or Chippewa) people in Canada. Born on December 7, 1844, in Islington, London, he pursued his clerical education at St John’s College, Huron, now part of the University of Western Ontario. His dedication to indigenous peoples, especially the Ojebway, led him to found the Shingwauk Home, a residential school aimed at educating indigenous children—a controversial legacy within the broader history of such institutions in Canada. Wilson’s literary output includes his book, ‘Missionary Work Among the Ojebway Indians’ (1886), an account of his religious and educational endeavors. The work serves as a primary historical source, offering insight into the interactions between Christian missionaries and Indigenous communities in the 19th century. His approach combines zealous evangelical efforts with a passion for language and culture, making significant strides in documenting the Ojebway language and providing linguistic tools for further study and engagement. Wilson’s scholarship is frequently examined in the context of colonial historical narratives, missionary literature, and the impact of evangelical missions on the fabric of Indigenous societies in Canada.