A day trip to the beach for Rick and Jeanie McLean, a couple from the Tahltan Nation, turned into a surprising archaeological discovery when they stumbled upon stones bearing historical significance related to treaties and diplomacy between neighboring nations. The couple, with Rick being a former chief of the Tahltan Nation and Jeanie a former Yukon cabinet minister, found these unique rocks adorned with carvings of fish and what seems to be a shield inside a bear paw while at their usual spot in the Shakes Creek area in northern British Columbia.
For Rick, who hails from the Telegraph Creek region, these carvings were not entirely unexpected, as there were previous hints of marked rocks in the area. He recalls stories passed down from his great-grandmother about the cultural importance of Shakes Creek for both the Tahltan and Tlingit nations. This location served as a significant site for fishing, trading, and communal gatherings during the summer months.
Jeanie expressed the profound impact of uncovering such artifacts, sparking conversations about culture and history that transcend boundaries. The couple’s social media posts showcasing their discovery have garnered widespread attention, including interest from academic institutions and a clan leader in Alaska.
Richard Jackson, chief of the Tahltan Band Council, acknowledged the presence of petroglyphs near Telegraph Creek but noted the significance of these newfound carvings in the Shakes Creek area for the Tlingit people. He emphasized the need for respecting the cultural importance of these stones and urged against any disturbance, despite the growing interest they have attracted.
The CBC News also contacted the Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, British Columbia, seeking insights on the historical relevance of the petroglyphs. In response, the nation’s communications department highlighted their cultural protocols requiring consultation with elders and knowledge holders before further discussion on the matter.
