Husband and wife Rick and Jeanie McLean’s leisurely beach outing turned into an unexpected archeological venture as they stumbled upon stones bearing significance to the histories, treaties, and diplomacy of neighboring nations. Both belonging to the Tahltan Nation, Rick, a former chief, and Jeanie, a former Yukon cabinet minister, made the discovery while enjoying the day in the Shakes Creek region in northern British Columbia. The rocks they found featured intricate carvings depicting fish and a peculiar design resembling a shield nestled within a bear paw.
For Rick, who hails from the Telegraph Creek area, the revelation was not entirely surprising as there were previous accounts of a marked rock in the vicinity, hinting at the possibility of more hidden treasures waiting to be unearthed. He emphasized the cultural significance of the area for the Tahltan and Tlingit nations, recalling stories passed down by his great-grandmother about the land, conflicts, and the historic treaty between the nations at Shakes Creek.
Jeanie expressed the rarity and significance of the find, sparking discussions about culture and history that transcend geographical boundaries. The couple’s social media posts showcasing the discoveries have garnered widespread attention, drawing interest from academic institutions and a clan leader in Alaska.
Richard Jackson, chief of the Tahltan Band Council, acknowledged the presence of petroglyphs near Telegraph Creek but noted the novelty of such findings in the Shakes Creek area. Jackson highlighted the importance of these petroglyphs for the Tlingit people, symbolizing the peace treaty between the nations and providing guidance on fishing grounds.
Despite the newfound spotlight on the stones, Jackson emphasized the need for respect towards their cultural value and urged against any disturbances. CBC News contacted the Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, British Columbia, for insights on the petroglyphs’ historical significance, to which a representative emphasized the necessity of consulting with elders and knowledge bearers before further discussions.