[citation needed] When the Opaskwayak people signed Treaty 5 on in 1876,[6] the federal government agreed to give timber rights.
[7] According to oral tradition, Cree peoples have occupied the landscape of north-central Manitoba since time immemorial; this claim has been supported by archaeology.
The earliest archeological evidence of the people occupying the area has been carbon dated 2,600–4,000 years ago.
[citation needed] The current townsite of Opaskwayak, reserve parcel 21E, was a historical gathering place where people travelled for spiritual healing.
Also during this time, it was an opportunity for creating social ties and practicing the ceremonial way of life known as the Midewiwin, or Grand Medicine Society.
As the land was largely unsuitable for farming, the school only had a vegetable garden to grow food for students.
[9] The school was administered by the Bishop and Diocese of Saskatchewan until January 1922, when it was transferred to the Missionary Society of the Church of England in Canada.
In terms of education on-reserve, OCN houses the Hilda Young Child Care Centre, Joe A. Ross School, and Oscar Lathlin Collegiate.
[16] In January 2023, Opaskwayak, along with the federal and provincial governments, announced the construction of a new apartment block in downtown Winnipeg which will be owned and operated by OCN.