History of the Haida First Nation

The Haida, a North American native culture, settled in the Queen Charlotte Islands and Alaska area (known as Haida Gwaii) over 8,000 years ago. They were the first inhabitants of the region. The rugged terrain, abundant wildlife, cedar forests and proximity to the sea were elements that enabled the Haida to survive for centuries. The Haida developed a great reverance for the sanctity of the land on which they lived. Their continued survival depended on good stewardship of the land and the Haida culture is one of respect for the earth and it's inhabitants. The hand carved totem poles, paintings, and personal tattoo art all reflect this respect. At least 14,000 native people have lived in the 126 known villages in the area. The numbers dropped dramatically upon the arrival of European settlers until in 1911 only 589 native people lived in Old Massett and Skidegate. Logging destroyed many of the huge cedar trees used by the Haida to build homes and to form their dug out canoes. Futile attempts at cultivation by the settlers, dispersed wildlife and destroyed many of the plants that the Haida used to make medicine. A treaty between the Haida people and the government to protect the land was finally negotiated between 1993 and 1998. Stewardship for much of the land area was returned to the Haida people. Unfortunately, much damage had already been done in the name of progress and some species of trees, plants used in the making of medicines, and wildlife were severly threatened. Today, many species of plants and wildlife are protected but are still vulnerable. They are carefully being nurtured back to health in protected areas.

"They had been decimated by epidemics, converted by missionaries, pushed off their land by settlers, and finally herded onto reservations by the government. Little of the Indian culture remains today." article by Marion Pearsall. Unfortunately, this fact is true. Much of the evidence of early culture has been destroyed. Still, there is some archealogical evidence remaining and there are some artifacts, art and early photographs that illustrate some of the culture which has been handed down from generation to generation. I have provided some very good links which provide much more information on Haida culture I can on this limited site. Please explore them to learn more about the vibrant culture of the Haida way of life.

The inherent respect that the Haida culture expresses for it's surroundings have been represented throughout their history in their expression of art and literature. Symbolism plays an important part in these displays. The original Haida family structure divided the members into two groups, the Raven and the Eagle. These groups were further divided into many clans. The members of each group proudly displayed symbols and crests representing their membership. Both symbols are well represented through Haida history. Perhaps the most visible of the Haida art form is the totem pole. Carved from giant cedar trees, the totem poles often depicted the animal life around them. Some examples of early carvings still exist and there are still native craftsmen who continue the tradition today.

Unfortunately through time and lack of use, the Haida language is in danger of being lost forever. It is passed from one generation to another and efforts are underway to preserve this national treasure.