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A rich history
Thursday, May 29th, 2008 by GetawayBC.com
The WSANEC, or Coast Salish First Nation, have called the Saanich Peninsula home for thousands of years. The people, who reside from Bella Coola, south to the Oregon coast, are tied by the Sencoten language.
Traditionally, the Coast Salish had permanent winter villages, many located on the Peninsula, and temporary summer campsites. The Pacific Ocean was the main source of food for their people, it provided salmon, other fish and shellfish.
Historically, villages of the Coast Salish were typically constructed of Red Cedar split plank and had earthen floors. Longhouses provided homes for 40 or more people.
Coast Salish art includes the totem pole and a variety of other works including sculptures, masks, baskets and fabric arts. Many animals such as ravens, eagles, frogs and beavers are symbolized through Coast Salish art.
The Saanich Peninsula is a land rich in marine resources and a diversity of plant and animal species. It has long been recognized as a landscape which has been managed and maintained by the First Nations people who have lived in the region for generations.