Manitoulin's earliest recorded history begins in approximately 1600 when the Huron Indians took refuge on Manitoulin to escape the warring Iroquois. A couple of years later the Iroquois invade the Island, slaughtering many and setting fire to the abundant forests. Many Indians arrive in Quebec about that time. For many years the Island remained unoccupied, then in 1700 the Indians began to return to Manitoulin. In the dry season, during one of the ceremonies to rid their land of evil spirits, Indians set a fire and the ensuing flames swept through the Island destroying much of the land.

For 150 years the land experienced peace and regrowth, then in 1825 the first Indians start returning to the land. In 1832 the first missionary is recorded as having arrived to teach faith to the natives. In 1836 the first treaty was drawn up that allocated Manitoulin to the Indians as their permanent home. This lasted until 1862 when all Indian bands, with the exception of Wikwemikong, signed a treaty that allowed white settlers to inhabit the Island. See Manitoulin Treaty of 1862. From then the Island has had a reputation for farming and fishing. Today it is known widely for its tourism, farming and native culture.

Manitoulin was part of the District of Algoma until 1889 when an Act of Legislature provided for Manitoulin to be a Provincial Judicial District. It wasn't until 1902 that Manitoulin District became an electoral district. This is important to understand when searching for your family trees.