Mi'kmaw Black Ash Baskets

Della Maguire is a distinguished Mi’kmaw Elder and master basket maker from Glooscap First Nation in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia. Renowned for her exceptional craftsmanship, she learned the art of basketry from her parents, Abe and Rita Smith, one of the finest Mi’kmaw basket-making teams in the province.

A respected cultural educator, Della shares her knowledge through workshops and community events across the region. She teaches prayers, ceremonies, storytelling, treaty knowledge, and traditional skills, fostering deeper understanding, respect, and pride in Mi’kmaw culture and heritage.