August 09, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Historic & Heritage Sites
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Located in the Village of Hazelton, the First Nations Historical Village - 'Ksan - is an amazing sight to see. The area is home to the Gitxsan and
Wet’suwet’en people and is full of magnificent history of the people and the region. One of these sites that help to maintain history is the Historical Village of 'Ksan.
In my most recent visit to the Hazeltons I made a stop here and was extremely pleased to see what was there. I had read a lot about the area and talked to many people, but visiting the site first hand was definitely an amazing experience. There is so much history there and the stories that we were told about the people, their culture, and the area was incredible!
They also have weekly dance and story-telling performances for people to
enjoy. I unfortunately was not able to catch one of these performances,
but I hope to be back out there again sometime soon to take the tour
again and to catch one of these performances. They have amazing history
there that I suggest everyone learn about no matter who you are or where
in the world you may live.
You don't have to be familiar with the cultures at all as they provide a full tour with detailed information at a very reasonable price. I will continue to recommend 'Ksan to many more people heading that direction as I have nothing but good things to say about my experience there. It was definitely worth the visit!
August 09, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Historic & Heritage Sites
View a larger image on flickr.com
As part of an adventure along Highway 16, I made a stop in the Hazeltons. It was a very neat sight to see with so many different stories told in the designs of the totems. Each totem was completely different and created a different feeling from viewing it.
Many of the totems there were quite old and created a feeling of history to the area. Others were fairly recent looking as their didn't seem to be as aged by the environment. These totems were all so incredibly detailed and I can only imagine what kind of time and care the artists would have had to put into the creation of them. The skill and specifically patience required for carving these must have to be tremendous in order to get them completed.
First Nations history has so many amazing stories that teach of great overcoming of obstacles and learning morals in growing up in life. The elders of these communities have a significant role in passing down the stories from one generation to the next and I believe that each and every culture should not lose their heritage and continue to maintain the learning of their cultures and heritage. Great sites like the Kispiox Totem Field are just one of many ways that these communities must maintain their heritage. These totems were an incredible sight to see and I hope one day I will be fortunate enough to be able to see the process it takes to carve them by these skilled carvers.
August 09, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Historic & Heritage Sites
View a larger image on flickr.com
Ksan Village is a First Nations historic village located in Hazelton, BC. The location features several longhouses that were used for traditional ceremonies and events within the First Nations community.
You may take a guided tour of the site by one of many First Nations employees and understand the way that ceremonies are run and the meanings behind many pieces of traditional regalia.
Also featured at the Ksan Village is a gift shop full of handcrafted jewelry and art from several local and Wet'suwet'en First Nations people. On the way out of the site, there is often a market set up where you can purchase many local products including delicious bannock!
I would suggest a trip to Ksan for any individuals traveling west on Highway 16 and if you are interested in learning about the traditional First Nations ceremonies and traditions.