A day trip to the beach for Rick and Jeanie McLean, a couple from the Tahltan Nation, turned into an unexpected archeological discovery. While at their favorite spot in the Shakes Creek area in northern B.C., they stumbled upon rocks adorned with intricate carvings depicting fish and what appears to be a shield inside a bear paw.
Both Rick and Jeanie have deep roots in their community, with Rick being a former Tahltan chief and Jeanie a former Yukon cabinet minister. The significance of the carvings resonated with them as they pondered the historical connections and the stories behind these ancient artworks.
The Shakes Creek area holds immense cultural importance for the Tahltan and Tlingit nations, serving as a gathering place for fishing, trading, and social interactions. Rick recalled tales from his great-grandmother about the land, wars, and the treaty that shaped the relationship between the two neighboring nations at Shakes Creek.
The couple’s discovery has sparked widespread interest, with universities and even a clan leader from Alaska reaching out after seeing the photos and videos shared on social media. The attention highlights the value of preserving and understanding such artifacts that transcend borders and ignite conversations about shared heritage.
Richard Jackson, chief of the Tahltan Band Council, acknowledged the significance of the petroglyphs found near Telegraph Creek, emphasizing their importance in Tlingit history and the peace treaty between the nations. He urged for respect towards these cultural treasures and emphasized the need to safeguard them from disturbance.
While the Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, B.C., was approached for comments on the petroglyphs, they indicated the necessity of consulting with elders and knowledge holders before providing further insights, in line with their cultural protocols. The unfolding narrative of the carved stones symbolizes a deep-rooted history bridging the Tahltan and Tlingit nations.