Changes to Distribution of Rations

Changes to distribution of rations at Crooked Lake reserve caused problems. Instead of rations being sent in bulk to the chief for distribution among the band, rations were sent to the farm instructor to be equally distributed among band members. Indian Affairs complained that an unfair proportion of the rations were being given to the young, who were better able to provide for themselves. In comparison, an insufficient amount was being distributed to the elderly members of the band, who were not able to engage in food production practices. This change in the system of distributing rations caused violence on the reserve. The NWMP were sent in to deal with the situation, arresting several band members who were then taken into custody in Regina.