Husband and wife Rick and Jeanie McLean, both members of the Tahltan Nation, stumbled upon ancient stones during a beach outing in northern B.C. The rocks bore intricate carvings depicting fish and a shield within a bear paw, sparking a sense of historical connection between neighboring nations.
Rick, a former chief of the Tahltan Nation, and Jeanie, a former Yukon cabinet minister, made the discovery while at their favorite spot in the Shakes Creek area. The couple marveled at the carvings, pondering the significance and wondering about the people who had last laid eyes on them.
Growing up in Telegraph Creek, Rick recalled stories passed down through generations about the area’s cultural importance to the Tahltan and Tlingit nations. The land around Shakes Creek served as a vital site for fishing, trade, and communal gatherings during summers, as recounted by Rick’s great-grandmother.
The McLeans believe that uncovering these ancient treasures initiates conversations about culture and history that transcend boundaries. Their findings have garnered widespread attention on social media, attracting interest from academic institutions and indigenous leaders.
Richard Jackson, chief of the Tahltan Band Council, acknowledged the petroglyphs near Telegraph Creek but was surprised by the discovery in the Shakes Creek area. He emphasized the stones’ significance to the Tlingit nation as symbols of a historic peace treaty and fishing rights.
Jackson urged caution and respect for the cultural importance of the stones to prevent any disturbance, despite the newfound attention. The Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, B.C., declined to comment immediately, citing the need to consult with elders and knowledge holders in accordance with their cultural protocols.