The Toronto Islands have long been regarded as a special and sacred place among Mississauga and other First Nations. Named ‘Minesing’ in Anishinaabemowin, meaning ‘island’ or ‘on the island’, the Mississaugas recognized the special character of the islands as a place of healing, medicine, and relaxation. Though there is no evidence that any large villages were established on the islands, they camped and held ceremonies and councils here often.