First Nations
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Cedar House Gallery, Ucluelet |
House of Himwitsa Gallery, Tofino |
Eagle Aerie Gallery, Tofino |
The Nuu-chah-nulth people have lived on the west coast of Vancouver Island for an estimated 10,000 years or more. Their traditional society lived in harmony with the rich resources of the coastal temperate rainforest. It is estimated that 100,000 people lived on the west coast of Vancouver Island before European explorers spread diseases such as small pox to the villages. Many communities lost more than 80 percent of their population during the 1800's. Much is lost in history due to this population decline, but the artistry, stories, songs and culture live on. The artistic and cultural richness of this ancient culture is integral to any visit to the area. Follow the links below to learn more, or visit the interpretive centres at Pacific Rim National Park or the Raincoast Interpretive Centre in Tofino when you visit. Many books, carvings and traditional crafts can also be purchased in galleries. Below is a brief overview of recent events, compared to the long timeline of the First Nations People.
The best place to visit to learn more is the Kwisitis Visitor Centre in Pacific Rim National Park, where you can see artifacts, interactive displays, and an outdoor interpretive trail. In Ucluelet, there is a short interpretive trail at Terrace Beach.
The Clayoquot and Barkley Sound region of Vancouver Island includes the territories of the following First Nations: |
Ahousaht First Nation Hesquiaht First Nation Opetchesaht First Nation Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation |
Toquaht First Nation Tseshaht First Nation Uchucklesaht First Nation Ucluelet First Nation
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