Musqueam Post Carving

Beneath the outstretched wings of a majestic raven, the Musqueam Post stands as a silent storyteller. The Musqueam Post at the University of British Columbia isn’t just a carved piece of cedar. It’s a living testament to the Musqueam people’s enduring connection to this land. The post, carved by Musqueam artist Brent Sparrow Jr., depicts a human figure holding the tail of a double-headed serpent. This serpent, known as sɬi:ɫqəy̓, plays a central role in the Musqueam origin story. Legend tells of this massive serpent residing in Camosun Bog. Its movements carved the path of the Fraser River. Where the serpent travelled, life withered, and from its remains sprang forth a new plant, the m θk̓əy̓. This river grass became so abundant that it gave the Musqueam people their name, xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, meaning “place of the river grass.” The Musqueam Post serves as a powerful reminder that UBC sits on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Musqueam people. This land has always been a place of learning for them. Their culture, history, and traditions have been passed down through generations. The post, facing east towards the Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre, welcomes all who enter the campus. It stands as a symbol of the university’s commitment to honoring the Musqueam people and their rich heritage. The Musqueam Post is more than just a beautiful work of art. It’s a symbol of resilience, a testament to the power of storytelling, and a reminder of the deep connection between the Musqueam people and the land they call home.