Rick and Jeanie McLean, a couple from the Tahltan Nation, stumbled upon significant stones during a casual beach outing in northern B.C. The rocks they discovered bear intricate carvings depicting symbols like fish and what appears to be a shield inside a bear paw.
Rick, a former chief of the Tahltan Nation, and Jeanie, a former Yukon cabinet minister, found the stones at their usual spot in the Shakes Creek area. The couple expressed awe at the discovery, pondering the individuals who last laid eyes on these ancient artifacts.
The area holds immense cultural importance for the Tahltan and Tlingit nations. Rick recalls stories passed down from his great-grandmother about the land, conflicts, and the treaty signed at Shakes Creek between the two nations. The site served as a gathering place for fishing, trading, and community interactions each summer.
Jeanie emphasized the significance of unearthing such treasures, sparking discussions about shared histories and cultures that transcend geographical boundaries. The couple’s social media posts showcasing the rocks have garnered widespread attention, even drawing interest from academic institutions and clan leaders in Alaska.
Richard Jackson, chief of the Tahltan Band Council, noted the rarity of such petroglyphs in the area, highlighting their importance in the peace treaty between the Tahltan and Tlingit nations. Jackson urged people to respect the cultural value of the stones and refrain from disturbing them despite the newfound publicity.
CBC News contacted the Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, B.C., for input on the historical significance of the petroglyphs. A representative stated that their cultural protocols mandate consulting with elders and knowledge holders before providing further information.