They are like their Indian heritage in being visionary, philosophical, hospitable, generous, adaptive and most important they tried to live their beliefs. The Metis are of the Algonquian Nation, being primarily Ojibwa and Cree. The Cree said of their mixed blood children, with a sense of pride, they are their own boss. The Ojibwa said of their mixed blood children, they are as burnt wood and all agreed they are quick tempered, quick to fight but quick to forgive and forget. More than anything they loved nature, the buffalo hunt, music and dancing until dawn.
Family bonds are very strong, being deeply rooted in their Aboriginal tradition.
The Metis language is described as Bungi being a mix of Ojibwa, French and Gaelic and Michif a mix of French and Cree. Clan Garneau is of this Metis stock as is clan Thomas who arrived Hudson Bay 1789. There is a real possibility his father also traded the same territory. One of Louis's grandsons claims his father lived and works out of Sault Ste Marie, at one time, as a Chief Master for the North West Company. This family tradition surely applies to the Cadotte grand parents rather than the Garneau grand parents.