A day trip to the beach turned into an unexpected find for Rick and Jeanie McLean, members of the Tahltan Nation, as they stumbled upon rocks bearing ancient carvings near Shakes Creek in northern British Columbia. The carvings depict images like fish and what appears to be a shield within a bear paw, sparking intrigue about the historical ties between neighboring nations.
Rick, a former chief of the Tahltan Nation, and Jeanie, a former Yukon cabinet minister, were exploring their familiar spot when they unearthed these remarkable artifacts. Reflecting on the significance of the discovery, Jeanie expressed awe at the thought of the last individuals to have seen these carvings and the passage of time since.
The area holds deep cultural importance for the Tahltan and Tlingit nations, serving as a historical site for fishing, trading, and communal gatherings. Rick, drawing on ancestral stories, recounted tales of land, conflicts, and treaties that shaped the region’s history, passed down through generations.
The couple’s social media posts showcasing the carved rocks have garnered widespread attention, with interest from academic institutions and indigenous leaders. Richard Jackson, chief of the Tahltan Band Council, emphasized the need to preserve these petroglyphs, highlighting their significance in the peace treaty between the Tahltan and Tlingit peoples.
Acknowledging the cultural value of the stones, Jackson urged respect for their historical importance and cautioned against disturbing them. The Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, B.C., emphasized the need to consult elders and knowledge keepers before further discussions on the petroglyphs’ historical context.