Matty Mitchell (June 1846 – 1922) was a Mi’kmaq chieftain,[1] guide, prospector, and explorer who contributed to the development of the Newfoundland economy.

In 1905, Mitchell, while contracted by the Anglo-Newfoundland Development, discovered the Buchans ore body, one of the world's most productive massive sulphide deposits.

[5] Subsequent development led to the creation of Buchans, as well as "many thousands of person-years of employment, shared by three generations of Newfoundlanders."

Since the discovery, the site has generated 16.2 million tonnes of high-grade zinc, lead, copper, gold and silver ore with a gross value of approximately $14 billion.

Among them were Chief Mi'sel Joe of the Miawpukek First Nation, Conne River; Brendan Sheppard, President of the Federation of Newfoundland Indians; and Marie Mitchell-Sparks, Matty Mitchell's granddaughter.