Vanderhoof Canadian Ranger Patrol returns old spearhead to Cheslatta Carrier Nation

Recognizing the cultural and historical significance of the artifact, the Vanderhoof CRP decided to return the spearhead to its rightful custodians, the Cheslatta Carrier Nation, on whose  traditional territory the artifact had been found. Vanderhoof CRP reached out to Cheslatta Carrier Nation Chief Janet Whitford to donate the spearhead.

Chief Whitford visited Vanderhoof CRP on June 7, a few weeks after the discovery, to accept the artifact. Chief Whitford expressed gratitude and said the Cheslatta Carrier Nation will preserve the spearhead in the Cheslatta Archives for community education. Chief Whitford said discoveries such as this are a powerful reminder of the deep history of their lands and offer opportunities for younger generations to learn about their proud heritage.

Finding an artifact as significant as this spearhead during a patrol exercise is rare. However, 4 CRPG Canadian Rangers routinely conduct patrol exercises to build and maintain positive relationships with the local community. As the leaders of their chosen communities, they serve Canada with pride and dedication. The relationship being built between the Vanderhoof CRP and the Cheslatta Carrier Nation is a great example of a meaningful partnership between the Canadian Rangers and the local communities. The Vanderhoof CRP’s decision to return the artifact not only reflects a high degree of professionalism and integrity, but also showcases the Canadian Rangers’ commitment to engage with local communities.

The Vanderhoof CRP, which falls under 4 CRPG, was in the Cheslatta Trail area to conduct a reconnaissance patrol along the historic trail in preparation for a future patrol exercise. Their chosen training area, located approximately 140 kilometres west of Vanderhoof, is well known for its dramatic water level fluctuations caused by dam and spillway operations. The Vanderhoof CRP assessed there was a need to familiarize themselves with the terrain in order to better prepare for potential search and rescue and disaster relief operations.

Sgt Buker, Vanderhoof CRP’s Patrol Commander, led his patrol to examine the lay of the land and look for alternate routes along the Cheslatta Trail, which is located within the Cheslatta Carrier Nation’s traditional territory. It was while navigating the route dismounted and performing a land survey that Sgt Buker noticed the spearhead near the beach

Sgt Buker and Vanderhoof CRP sought further examination of the artifact. A team of representatives led by Cheslatta Carrier Nation Natural Resources Project Supervisor Cody Reid conducted the examination. Reid, who has extensive knowledge in analyzing historical items found in the region, estimated the spearhead to be a few thousand years old.

In the end, this ancient spearhead, having survived thousands of years, has now found a new home in Cheslatta Archives to tell its remarkable story and inspire younger generations for years to come.

Bravo Zulu, Vanderhoof CRP!