The Sea Lion of Silver Islet

A Ojibwa Legend

Silver Islet is not only beautifully picturesque, but leaves one with
the sense of having “rubbed shoulders” with the chiefs and braves that
once roamed its shores.

It is here that the great legend of the Sea Lion originated. A pet and
constant companion of Nanna Bijou, spirit of the Deep Sea Water, was
the giant Thunder Bird. Nanna Bijou had another great companion in
Nagochee, the great Lion. Nagochee was no ordinary animal, for he was
credited with having the wings of an ease and the feet of a duck. His
speed was that of the wind and he could swim faster than any great fish.

One day the Spirit God was called upon to go on a long journey. He
hurriedly departed on the back of his beloved Lion, completely
forgetting to take his Thunder Bird. jealous at being left behind, the
Thunder Bird planned to destroy the Lion.

As Nanna Bijou returned, the Thunder Bird’s screeching voice shook the
heavens and a terrific storm broke, striking the Lion and rider. A
great wind snapped off one of Nagochee’s wings and he was twisted over,
throwing his master into the Big Sea Water. The Lion could not swim the
storm tossed waters, but ‘Nanna Bijou made it to shore. Thinking his
beast had failed him, he placed a curse on the Lion and turned him to
stone.

There today, the faithful old Lion looks solemnly out over the water,
waiting for his Master to return.