Agency One lands located near a former residential school were cleared as part of a search for unmarked graves linked to the former school, September 2023. Image: Randy Thoms/Acadia Broadcasting

Agency One intends to continue its search in the new year for unmarked graves connected to the former St. Margaret’s Residential School in Fort Frances.

Land in the vicinity of the former school was cleared this last year.

The search for unmarked graves has included the use of electromagnetic surveys, ground penetrating radar and aerial surveys, as well as interviews with survivors and their families.

In an update, Agency One says no possible “typical” burial sites were located, but eighteen areas were identified for further inspection.

It says the sites are not necessarily consistent with graves but do represent buried objects or disturbance of the soil.

It adds survivors and leaders have asked that the search be thorough so further study will be done.

An archeologist is being enlisted to help.

Some members of Fort Frances council had an opportunity to learn more about the search.

Mayor Andrew Hallikas, Councillors Mandi Olson and Interim Chief Administrative Officer Travis Rob were invited to a recent meeting with Agency One Chiefs.

Mayor Hallikas says he asked for the possibility of a public gathering in the future.

St Margaret’s School operated between 1906 and 1974.

Agency One says students from 55 communities attended classes during that time.