106 years and counting; that's how long Sarah Harper of Oxford House, MB has been alive as she celebrated her birthday on Aug 24.
More than 60 family and friends came from all over the province to St. Teresa Point to celebrate and honor their mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
The party featured traditional games, a pow-wow, square dancing and official presentations to honor Harper's historic birthday.
"To reach a milestone in someone's life like Sarah Harper has reached is not only a rare and joyful occasion for the family, but also for all First Nation people," said Grand Chief Derek Nepinak.
According to Harper's family in Oxford House, she was born on Aug. 24, 1904, but according to the Department of Indian Affairs register she was born on Aug. 24, 1901. Her family has settled on 1904 as the right date.
Harper was married to John Harper, son if Adam and Mary Ann Harper and lived in the surrounding areas of Island Lake called the Old Post settlement, this was the main settlement for people of Island Lake.
John and Sarah moved from that settlement to Oxford House where they stayed and raised a family. John passed away on July 10, 1972. Through her life, Harper has had many accomplishments and witnessed many events, including the signing of Treaty 5 in 1909, though she would have been just three at the time.
Sarah had six children - two girls and four boys, and has more grandchildren and great-grandchildren than she and her family can count.
On Aug. 24 at her birthday, she met some of her grandchildren and other relatives for the first time, as her birthday celebration became an impromptu family reunion.
"We as Manitoba Chiefs would like to thank Sarah Harper," said Grand Chief Nepinak, "for her contribution to our people and communities and wish her continued health."
