Is it true that the land beneath our feet whispers stories of millennia? Welcome to Musqueam 2. This is more than just a location. It is a living testament to the Musqueam people.
Musqueam 2 sits at the mouth of the Fraser River. It lies north of Sea Island and west of Vancouver. This reserve spans 209.2 hectares. It is a part of the New Westminster District.
The name “Musqueam” comes from the Hunquminum word xwmuthkwuyum. It means “place of the river grass”. River grass was once plentiful here. The Musqueam people have called this area home for at least 4000 years.
The changing river delta prompted a move. Around 1500 years ago, people settled here at today’s Musqueam 2 reserve. This area includes Musqueam Village. Once, there was another village named Ma Li.
The Musqueam people’s history runs deep. The Marpole Midden nearby proves this. It was once the largest village named csnm about 2500 years ago. This midden is also a sacred burial ground.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the burial ground was disturbed. Archaeologists excavated skeletal remains and belongings. These items went to the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. They were displayed without Musqueam’s permission.
In 1913, the McKenna McBride Royal Commission addressed reserve land boundaries. Musqueam Chief Johnny asserted his people’s rights. He spoke of fishing and hunting traditions. He contrasted them with the wasteful practices of newcomers.
Chief Johnny emphasized the Musqueam’s respect for resources. He criticized the settlers’ destructive methods. He defended his people’s right to fish without interference.
The Musqueam Declaration in 1976 defined their territory. It includes lands and waters. It stretches from Harvey Creek to the Georgia Strait.
The Musqueam Nation also has other reserves. These are Musqueam 4 and Sea Island 3. Each holds significance to the Musqueam people.
The Musqueam people speak Hunquminum. It is a dialect of the Halkomelem language. This language connects them to neighboring First Nations.
The Musqueam flag shows their identity. Designed by Susan Point, it features a salmon leaping above a net. It symbolizes their connection to the land and its resources.
The Musqueam First Nation is developing “lelm”. This is a new community near UBC. It will offer homes and community spaces. The name “lelm” means “home” in the Musqueam language.
Musqueam 2 stands as a reminder. It connects us to a rich history. It highlights the enduring spirit of the Musqueam people. Their traditions and stories continue to shape this land.