July 01, 2011 | Tips from Travellers >
Terrace, Historic & Heritage Sites
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May 20, 2000 marks a significant date in the history of the Nisga’a People. On this day, the 113-year struggle to end Indian Act to the Nisga’a people finally went through, and the Nisga’a people were granted full government of their own people and land. This was a rejoicing day for the First Nation people in the Nass Valley as it gave them a sense of ownership and closure to this long, drawn-out battle. Many of the artefacts that had left the land during the 19th and 20th century, have now been returned to their rightful place and are housed in a brand new world-class museum. The Nisga’a Museum is located in the cultural village of Laxgalts’ap (Greenville), about 137km on Highway 113 North-West of Terrace, BC. In fact, the highway was named Highway 113 because the Nisga’a Treaty took 113 years sign.
Walking into the museum, we were greeted with friendly faces and immersed into an empowering wave of culture that radiated off the walls of the museum. Every artefact had its own date, story and memory, which outlined the Nisga’a culture and its rich heritage. The tour was full of interesting facts which Nicolette, our guide, delivered in an enthusiastic manner. The 35min tour opened our eyes to much of the Nisga’a culture which can now be shared with the local people, Canada, and the world through an abundance of displays in the beautiful museum. There is also a gift shop where t-shirts, mugs and artwork can be purchased to accompany the wonderful memories and images you will take back with you after a visit here at the Nisga’a Museum. This new structure in Laxgalts’ap adds an extra touch to an already astonishing and vibrant territory here in the Nass Valley.