Migrating from Labrador to Newfoundland
A people of a proud tradition
Pure race of Beothuks now known to be
By DNA of Micmac condition

First seen by Vikings in Newfoundland
Who called them Skraelings and tried to capture
A shy people who kept their distance
A handsome race of middle stature

Broad-chested with long hair plaited
In the back with feathers and such
Early clashes with white settlers
Diminished their numbers so very much

Failed attempts at rehabilitation
By Cartwright and Buchan and by others
And with the demise of Shawnadithit the last
So the sad sudden end was cast

Of a race so proud and free
Reminds us of the frailty of life
With the end of a beautiful people
A result of so much racial strife

A tribute to the original native peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador, tragically extinct by 1829.

  Submitted By: John Cornick