Step into the living room of the family home where Louis Riel, the famous Red River Métis leader seen by many as the founder of Manitoba, lay in state for two days in December 1885 after he was hanged for high treason. The interior of Riel House National Historic Site is a snapshot of this monumental moment in time.
Riel House was built in 1880 by Louis’ brother Joseph. The house itself is constructed in Red River Frame style, which involves interlacing logs together to create structural integrity, eliminating the need for expensive nails. Designated a national historic site in 1976, Riel House stands as representation of a Red River Métis river lot settlement. Its river lot has particular importance as a symbol of Red River Métis culture in Manitoba.
Inside this restored structure, you can reflect on the fascinating and complex story of Louis Riel and explore his modern legacy with knowledgeable guides from the Louis Riel Institute. Learn about the Riel family, the daily life of the Red River Métis and how this turbulent time in history created Manitoba. Outdoors, take in the long, slender footprint of the river lot system and find out more about the agricultural practices of the day and the crops being grown on-site.
