Cowichan 2008 Spirit Pole: British Columbians Carve a Moment in History11am to 3pm at the Squamish Adventure Centre

Come to the Squamish Adventure Centre and take part in a historical event. Sign up to carve the Spirit Pole and become a part of history.

BC150 is helping celebrate the Cowichan 2008 North American Indigenous Games by sponsoring a very special, province-wide event. The Cowichan 2008 Spirit Pole tour will take place over 13 weeks, beginning in May 2008. A 20-foot red cedar log will be transformed into a ceremonial Spirit Pole as it tours the province. Under the guidance of master carver Carey Newman, people in 50 communities will be invited to carve a section of the pole. Participants will also learn about traditional carving methods and First Nations history.
On July 28, the NAIG Tribal Journeys Canoe participants will deliver the completed Spirit Pole to Cowichan Bay. The pole will be presented to Aboriginal Team BC at the opening ceremonies on August 3 and will remain in the Cowichan Valley after the Games are completed.
A unique art project is in the works as part of the celebration for the Cowichan 2008 North American Indigenous Games. To commemorate the rich history of British Columbia’s Aboriginal peoples and share the story of the international multi-sport games, a Coast Salish artist will transform a 20’ western red cedar log into a traditional story pole.

The pole will travel throughout the province, offering the citizens of British Columbia an opportunity to participate and try their hand at carving. Tribal Journeys 2008 will escort the pole for the final leg of its journey, arriving in Cowichan Bay on August 1, 2008. An integral part of the Opening Ceremonies, the pole will be carried with honour through the crowds to be raised and unveiled, marking the official opening of the Games.

Cowichan 2008 acknowledges Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) for the donation of a cedar log that came from the sacred village of Stanley Park. Stanley Park is within the traditional territory of the Squamish Nation and is a place steeped in culture and spirituality for the Squamish people. This contribution to the Spirit Pole project is greatly appreciated. Huy' tseepqu.