New documentary series Echoes of the Ancestors brings Fort Erie’s Indigenous history into focus

FORT ERIE, ON, September 08, 2026 – Echoes of the Ancestors is a new three-part documentary series produced by Michael Summers and Mitch Baird of the McLean Consulting Group, scheduled to launch September 10 on Bell Fibe TV1.

The series explores the cultural and historical significance of Indigenous burial grounds and archaeological sites in the Fort Erie region, including the Orchid and Surma ossuary sites and the area surrounding the Peace Bridge. Through archaeological research, community perspectives, and conversations with Indigenous knowledge holders and heritage professionals, the documentary connects the region’s ancient Indigenous presence with questions that remain urgent today.

Across three episodes, Echoes of the Ancestors examines what archaeological discoveries can teach us about the communities that lived, gathered, and traded along the Niagara River and Lake Erie. It also considers the responsibility to treat burial grounds, ancestral remains, and cultural materials with respect as communities navigate development, infrastructure, and preservation.

“As a Council, we recognize the importance of preserving and respecting the cultural heritage that exists within our community. Echoes of the Ancestors offers an insightful look at Fort Erie's Indigenous history and the shared responsibility we have to protect sacred sites and honour the stories connected to them. I commend the filmmakers and all those who contributed their knowledge and perspectives to this meaningful project, and I would encourage everyone to watch the series and engage with the stories that form an important part of our community's history.” – Mayor Wayne Redekop

“We are proud to support initiatives that celebrate and share Fort Erie's rich cultural heritage. Fort Erie has a deep and diverse history, and Echoes of the Ancestors helps bring an important part of that story to life. This documentary not only highlights the cultural significance of Indigenous heritage sites and archaeological resources throughout our community, but also reinforces the importance of preserving, understanding, and respecting these places for future generations.” – Chris McQueen, Town of Fort Erie CAO

“This documentary is about learning from the land, listening to the people who carry this history, and helping viewers understand that Indigenous presence in Fort Erie reaches far beyond the written record.” – Mitch Baird, Producer, McLean Consulting Group

Host and producer Michael Summers adds:

“We hope the series becomes a useful starting point for education, respectful discussion, and stronger collaboration.”

The production brings together interviews and perspectives from Indigenous knowledge holders, archaeologists, historians, and community partners, including Ron Williamson of ASI Heritage, Rick Hill, Six Nations knowledge keeper and Order of Canada recipient, Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop, and many others.

Filming took place in Fort Erie over two years and included locations connected to the Niagara River, local archaeological history, and the documentary’s central themes of memory, responsibility, and cultural continuity.

Echoes of the Ancestors is scheduled to be available through Bell Fibe TV1 on September 10, 2026. Viewers should consult the official Bell Fibe TV1 listing at launch for availability and viewing details.

Release Details

Title: Echoes of the Ancestors: The History of Indigenous Burial Sites of Fort Erie – View Trailer here

Format: Three-part documentary series

Scheduled Release: September 10, 2026

Platform: Bell Fibe TV1

Producers: Mitch Baird and Michael Summers

Production Team: McLean Consulting Group

Director/Host: Michael Summers

For Media Inquiries, please find the information below:

Production Team Contact:
Mitch Baird, Producer
McLean Consulting Group
289-968-6670