Husband and wife Rick and Jeanie McLean, both members of the Tahltan Nation, had an unexpected discovery during their beach outing at the Shakes Creek area in northern B.C. They stumbled upon rocks adorned with intricate carvings depicting fish and what seems to be a shield within a bear paw motif.
Rick, a former chief of the Tahltan Nation, and Jeanie, a former Yukon cabinet minister, found the carvings to be of great cultural significance. The area holds historical ties to the Tahltan and Tlingit nations, serving as a vital location for fishing, trading, and communal gatherings in the past.
Growing up in Telegraph Creek, Rick had heard tales from his great-grandmother about the land’s importance, including stories of wars and treaties between the nations at Shakes Creek. The newfound carvings have sparked interest from various individuals and organizations, with universities and a clan leader from Alaska reaching out to learn more about the artifacts.
Richard Jackson, chief of the Tahltan Band Council, acknowledged the significance of the petroglyphs found near Telegraph Creek, emphasizing the importance of preserving these cultural treasures. The Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, B.C., was also contacted for their insights on the historical value of the petroglyphs, with a response indicating the need to consult with elders and knowledge holders before further discussion.
The McLeans’ discovery has ignited discussions about the rich cultural heritage shared between the Tahltan and Tlingit nations, transcending borders and highlighting the need for respect and preservation of such significant artifacts.
