Margaret Bemister

Margaret Bemister was a Canadian writer and educator whose literary contributions spanned several genres, including non-fiction, short stories, and novels. Born in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, she was the daughter of George Bartlett Bemister and Mary Elizabeth McPhillips. After earning her teaching certificate from the Winnipeg Normal School, she became an active member of the literary community, contributing to the Manitoba Free Press and playing a pivotal role in the Winnipeg branch of the Canadian Women's Press Club. Bemister was particularly noted for her efforts in collecting and retelling Indigenous stories, including those from a chief of the Syilx First Nation, which showcased her commitment to preserving and sharing cultural narratives. In addition to her literary endeavors, Bemister was instrumental in creating the Christmas Knapsack, an anthology aimed at raising funds for Canadian soldiers during World War I. Her work not only reflected her literary talent but also her dedication to social causes. After a long and impactful life, she moved to Vancouver at the age of 82, where she continued to be involved in the literary scene until her passing at 107. Bemister's legacy lies in her contributions to Canadian literature and her efforts to amplify Indigenous voices, marking her as a significant figure in the country's cultural history.