Our Condolences

The Board of the Beothuk Institute mourns the passing of our Vice-Chair, Mr. Don Pelley. A proud Mi’kmaq from central Newfoundland, Mr. Pelley was deeply committed to the history of his people, the archaeology of central Newfoundland, and the legacy of the Beothuk.

Don played a pivotal role in the Beothuk Institute, advocating for archaeological research along the Exploits River system and Beothuk Lake. He actively collaborated with government departments and worked closely with archaeologist and fellow board member Laurie McLean on surveying and excavating significant sites in the region.

His contributions have greatly enhanced our understanding of the Beothuk story. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Don’s family and friends during this difficult time.

Don Pelley

The Beothuk

about the people and the Ancestors

Welcome to our website.
Interested in the history of the Beothuk people? If so, you’ve landed in the right place.

The Beothuk Institute is committed to developing a better public knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the history and culture of the Beothuk, of their prehistoric ancestors, and of other First Nation Peoples of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. As a volunteer, charitable organization, we lobby and provide support for projects that will help advance that purpose.

Become a Member
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Take a read through the site to learn more about the history, beliefs, practices and culture of the Beothuk people. Find out about the Beothuk Institute as well as some of the projects that we support.

The Beothuk Institute and Our Ties to the Beothuk Interpretation Centre at Boyd's Cove

The Beothuk Institute Inc was incorporated at St. John’s in 1997. Its formation was initiated by artist Gerry Squires. His vision of a lone Beothuk woman standing strong and proud against an oncoming storm near Exploits Island inspired him to create a statue to commemorate the Beothuk.  Initially the Beothuk Institute raised the funds for this project and Squires’ statue – “The Spirit of the Beothuk” – now stands on the grounds of the Boyd’s Cove Beothuk Interpretation Centre, a provincial historic site.

We are a provincially incorporated, non-profit organization, run by volunteers. We lobby and provide support for projects that will help advance our purpose.

Our Mission is to create, maintain and enhance public knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the Beothuk People and their prehistoric ancestors, and to initiate, support and/or encourage projects commensurate with this aim.

Annual Membership

$15 per Year

Click here to Join or Renew

Projects

Support is Needed

We participate in research and archaeological digs. As a non-profit organization, we depend your support. All proceeds go toward the work of the Institute and special projects that contribute to the advancement of our mission.

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