NEWS – First new Stop of Interest sign acknowledges archaeological work

A cold and persistent wind didn’t stop the celebratory mood when the first of 75 new Stop of Interest signs was unveiled today (March 27, 2017).

The sign, located next to the Sts’Xum monument beside the Trans Canada near Pritchard, acknowledges the archaeological finds made during the four-laning of the highway.

Transportation Minister Todd Stone and representatives from the Sexqeltkemc te Secwepemc presided at the ceremony.

“The first of our new Stop of Interest signs highlights important archaeological work done in partnership with local First Nations during safety improvements to the Trans-Canada Highway east of Kamloops,” said Stone.

“Now, visitors through this area can imagine what this land may have looked like 10,000 years ago when it was home to the early Secwepemc peoples.”

This area of the Trans-Canada Highway corridor, called the “Cradle of Secwepemc Civilization,” is one of the more culturally significant archaeological areas in the province, dating back 9,500 years.

“Sts’xum Monument is a modern day Coyote Marker to honour Secwépemc ancestors within ‘Secwépemc Cradle of Civilization’ in the area during the Trans-Canada Highway 1 expansion,” said Neskonlith Chief Judy Wilson. “The rock sculptures were created by local Secwépemc artists.”

“We have been on our lands for over 10,000 years,” said Splatsin Chief Wayne Christian. “We want to share with the world the sacredness of our connection to Secwepemculcw.”

Elder Mike Arnouse also spoke, telling of the impacts of European civilization on First Nations.

From September 2016 through January 2017, British Columbians were invited to submit their ideas for new Stop of Interest signs and share interesting stories that could be told to people travelling B.C.’s highways. Over 500 submissions were received.

The stories to appear on the remainder of the 75 new signs will be announced over the coming months as the signs are installed.

DISCLOSURE NOTE: Mel Rothenburger was a member of the provincial evaluation committee that reviewed proposals for new Stop of Interest signs.