A couple, Rick and Jeanie McLean, who are both members of the Tahltan Nation, stumbled upon ancient stones during a beach outing that shed light on the historical ties, treaties, and diplomacy between neighboring nations. The discovery, made in the Shakes Creek area of northern British Columbia, featured rocks adorned with carvings depicting fish and what seemed to be a shield nested within a bear paw.
Rick, a former chief of the Tahltan Nation, and Jeanie, a former Yukon cabinet minister, described the find as a unique and profound experience, pondering about the individuals who last laid eyes on these artifacts and the passage of time. Rick, having grown up in the Telegraph Creek area, recalled tales passed down from his great-grandmother about the significance of Shakes Creek in Tahltan and Tlingit culture, including its role as a focal point for salmon fishing, trade, and communal gatherings.
The couple’s discovery has sparked intrigue, prompting discussions on cultural heritage and historical narratives that transcend boundaries. The images shared on social media have garnered attention from various quarters, including academic institutions and indigenous leaders. Richard Jackson, the chief of the Tahltan Band Council, acknowledged the presence of petroglyphs near Telegraph Creek but noted the unique nature of the newly found carvings in the Shakes Creek area, attributing their relevance to the peace treaty and fishing rights between the Tahltan and Tlingit nations.
Despite the newfound fame of the stones, Jackson emphasized the importance of respecting their cultural significance and urged people not to disturb them. Efforts to delve deeper into the historical context of the petroglyphs involved reaching out to the Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, British Columbia, whose cultural protocols mandate consultation with elders and knowledge holders before further commentary.
