A couple, Rick and Jeanie McLean, who are both members of the Tahltan Nation, stumbled upon significant rock carvings during a beach outing that shed light on historical connections and diplomatic relations between neighboring nations. While relaxing at Shakes Creek in northern B.C., the McLeans noticed stones adorned with intricate carvings depicting fish and what seems to be a shield within a bear paw symbol.
Rick, a former chief of the Tahltan Nation, and Jeanie, a former Yukon cabinet minister, were astonished by the discovery, contemplating the individuals who last witnessed these carvings and the passage of time since then. The area holds immense cultural value for the Tahltan and Tlingit nations, serving as a historical site for fishing, trading, and communal gatherings during the summer months.
The finding has sparked interest across social media platforms, attracting attention from academic institutions and indigenous leaders. Richard Jackson, chief of the Tahltan Band Council, acknowledged the petroglyphs near Telegraph Creek and emphasized the importance of preserving these artifacts as they signify the peace treaty between the Tahltan and Tlingit nations.
Despite the newfound fame, Jackson urged people to respect the cultural significance of the stones and refrain from disturbing them. The Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, B.C., declined to comment immediately, citing the need to consult with elders and cultural knowledge bearers before providing further insights.