Northern Secwepemc culture on display

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The sweet smell of willow and the cool breezes off the mighty Fraser River combine and surround the Xats'ull Heritage Village with the fresh scent of spring. The village is located 37 km north of Williams Lake on Highway 97 on the Xats'ull (Soda Creek) Indian reserve, the northernmost band belonging to the Secwepemc (Shuswap) nation.

Xats'ull (pronounced hats'ull) Heritage Village was opened for tourists on June 1, 1995. If you would like to experience the Secwepemc culture and learn about their traditions, the Xats'ull people warmly invite you.

When driving north from Williams Lake take a left turn at the landmark tipi that marks a gravel road leading you directly to the heritage site. On the way down be sure to stop at the lookout for your first glimpse of the Village. You will be impressed at the sight of the dark, powerful waters of the Fraser River snaking its way through the valley.

Above the river on the east side are grassy land shelves with pine and willow. Nestled on one of these shelves is the Xats'ull Heritage Village. Xats'ull literally means "on a cliff."

Program co-ordinator, Cheryl Chapman said, "The area is rich in history and culture. Archeology has proved that our people have lived on these banks for 5,000 years. We are also on the Gold Rush Trail, which is significant in British Columbia's history."

A typical day visiting the village begins with a two-hour guided tour through the area. Guides provide commentary on the history and the medicines of the Xats'ull people, interpretations of ancient petroglyphs and recently discovered artifacts.

A delicious traditional lunch will be served that may include salmon baked on an open fire with fresh bannock, or moose and deer roasted on a stick. There is also fresh fruit and salad provided for tourists with dietary restrictions.

The afternoon is your time to experience the Secwepemc culture first hand. Some guests enjoy learning to make traditional crafts, such as beadwork, rattles and dreamcatchers. Others are more inclined to try their hand at salmon dipping, allowed on a catch-and-release basis. There is something for everyone.

If you are a guest choosing the extended stay program you will enjoy learning more about the Xats'ull culture by meeting some of the Elders and listening to their stories. You will also be treated to an evening of traditional singing, drumming and dancing around a campfire, before settling in for the authentic Aboriginal experience of sleeping in a tipi or pit house.

Xats'ull Elder Ralph Philips and his family have been involved in the Heritage Village from the beginning.

"It is a time we can teach about our spirituality and culture," he said. "It is also good for the young people to be involved with the project. Teaching traditions can help wake something up in them and help them have a connection with the Creator."

He believes seeing the interest others have in their culture helps the Xats'ull young people realize how important it is to preserve their heritage.

The Xats'ull Heritage Village received recognition in 1995 as Newsmaker of the Year and in 1996 by winning a National Award for Best Service and Best Product. The Xats'ull community invites all to come and enjoy their hospitality. As Cheryl Chapman says, "We are sharing the culture of the northern Secwepemc nation. Come to relax and enjoy."

For more information contact Xats'ull Heritage Village at (250) 989-2323.