Government of Canada Commemorates the National Historic Significance of Chief Kw'eh
News Release
Commemorative plaque honours a remarkable leader in Canadian history
September 17, 2016 Fort St. James, British Columbia Parks Canada Agency
Today, Parks Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, accompanied by the Nak'azdli First Nation, recognized the historic significance of Chief Kw’eh in British Columbia by unveiling a commemorative plaque at a ceremony in Fort St. James National Historic Site.
The ceremony acknowledged the contribution of Chief Kw’eh as a significant figure in Canadian history. Chief Kw’eh gained traditional rights and leadership over a wide territory and numerous Dakelh (Carrier) communities in the late 18th century, restoring stability to the region after a devastating period of inter-tribal warfare. Both a strong warrior and an experienced diplomat, Chief Kw’eh effectively negotiated the interests of his people against those of inbound fur traders after the founding of the North West Company trading post at Stuart Lake. Chief Kw’eh is remembered for how he was “great enough” to use restraint in times of confrontation between the Dakelh-ne and the Euro-Canadian fur traders, and for his promise to timelessly provide for his people.
As we near the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Government invites all Canadians to experience and learn more about our environment and our history. Canada’s national parks and national historic sites enable Canadians to experience their heritage in a special way and will play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.
Quote
“Chief Kw’eh played an important role in Canadian heritage. He was a strong leader for Indigenous peoples in the northern interior of what is now British Columbia during a period of war among Indigenous nations and new relations with Euro-Canadian fur traders. His leadership helped to guide his people through times of profound change and he is a proud example of the strength of the Dakelh community.”
The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
Quick facts
- The Government of Canada is committed to connecting Canadians to the significant events that contributed to our country’s rich history and heritage.
- Having established himself as a respected warrior during his youth, Chief Kw’eh actions helped restore stability after decades of warfare between the Dakelh (Carrier) and Tsilhqot’in (Chilcotin) communities in north-central British Columbia. Chief Kw’eh effectively negotiated the interests of his people against those of inbound fur traders who established a post on the southern shore of Stuart Lake in 1806.
- Canada’s national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas belong to all Canadians. They represent the very best that Canada has to offer and tell the stories of who we are, including the history, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.
- Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change regarding the national historic significance of places, people and events that have marked Canada’s history.
- The Government of Canada is currently seeking applications from diverse and talented Canadians from across the country who are interested in becoming a member of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. The Board invites Canadians meeting the requirements to submit their candidacies via the Governor in Council website by September 19, 2016.
- Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that make up the rich tapestry of Canada’s cultural heritage and which offers visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discoveries.
Related Document
Backgrounder: Chief Kw’eh National Historic Person
Related links
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
Fort St. James National Historic Site
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Contact
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
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