News and event information for Williams Lake, BC - as it happens.

By LeRae Haynes

The grand re-opening of the Xat’sull Heritage Village signified another rebirth for the site that offers not only information, education and awareness to travelers and tourists from around the world, but also to local residents and community members.

(Photo by: Joe Cousins)

When the Heritage Village was opened the first time on June 1, 1996, the inspiration and vision originated from a couple from Germany, who felt that the traditions, culture and spirituality of First Nations groups was something that would be an enormous draw for tourism. In their search for a community to build the site, they met Soda Creek band member Cheryl Chapman, now with Aboriginal Tourism BC, who suggested that they meet with Chief and Council at the Soda Creek Indian Band.

She said that the changes in 2010 were difficult for her to accept---particularly the covered picnic area---but that she gradually came to accept the new village. “Seeing it today with all the people here, and the beautiful fences makes it easier,” she explained. “And of course, our community members did it all: just like the first time around.”

Changes that were made include the new fencing, the covered gathering place, picnic tables, an archeological screening structure, a new pit house and new tipis. Cheryl said that although tipis are not traditional to Soda Creek, investigation showed that in Europe tipis are a readily-recognized symbol of First Nations heritage and that they are also nice to sleep in.

Tour groups come to the Heritage Village from around the world to enjoy a taste of local First Nations tradition and culture. Visitors can enjoy arts and crafts, story-telling, watch local fishing and catch a salmon for a meal.

“This is a historically significant spot,” she continued. “There is evidence of more that 10,000 years of habitation in this area.”

Soda Creek Indian Band elder, historian and storyteller Ralph Philips said that one of the most significant parts of the original village was that people from Germany came to his community and told them how they should start living again. “They said that, in Germany, they have people living in tipis, hunt and live off roots and berries for four months out of the year.

“That was my introduction to Native culture,” he continued, adding that working on the heritage site and having it part of the community has given him the opportunity to learn about and embrace his culture. He also said that one of the most important aspects of the village is to show their children and young people how knowing the old ways can be a positive part of their lives today.

The grand-reopening of the Xat’sull Heritage Village last weekend included tours of the village, a feast and speeches by band officials and project on participants.

The beautiful huge timbers for the covered picnic area came from the Xat’sull timber lots in Likely, and John Stac-Smith, project manager said that Pioneer Log Homes loaned their yard and equipment for assembly of the enormous structure.

“Xat’sull means ‘on the edge’ and I tell people I’ve lived on the edge all my life,” stated Thomas Philips, band councilor and Economic Development Coordinator. He described the significance that fish and the river has in the band’s culture, and said that 25 years ago you could see fires all along the river with people fishing.

He thanked contributors and partners in the project, including the CRD, the City of Williams Lake, the Williams Lake Indian Band, Canoe Creek/Dog Creek band, the Canim Lake band, Pioneer Log Homes, Home Hardware, Broadway Rentals and WL Forestry.

Band Administrator Rhonda Philips said a special thank you to the project participants and their vision, dedication, hard work and expertise, including project manager John Stace-Smith, Darren Russell, Johnny Philips, Lee Selleck and more. Local drummers and singers played a song honouring the project.

Two riders on horseback circled the village during the ceremony, commemorating First Nations historical significance in two countries: Brandi represented the Cherokee nation, carrying a US flag and Lindy carried a flag from the Soda Creek Indian Band.

CRD Area Director Dib Bischoff attended the ceremony, as did Williams Lake City Councilor Laurie Walters.

(Video by: Suzanne Whittingham)

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