July 9, 2024
Comox Valley, BC
Joint Media Release: Unveiling incredible Pentlatch fish trap panel exhibit at VIU’s Deep Bay Marine Field Station
A significant Pentlatch cultural Belonging unearthed by K’ómoks First Nation and archaeological collaborators is on public display for the next six months at Vancouver Island University’s (VIU’s) Deep Bay Marine Field Station.
At 550 years old, the fish trap panel is an incredible and enduring example of Pentlatch cultural ingenuity. It is the largest and most complete of its kind on the Northwest Coast, and potentially in the world. It measures roughly six metres long and 70 cm wide, with 13 long laths and nine vertical support laths, bound together with cordage made from plant fibres.
The panel was made by Pentlatch Ancestors of the K’ómoks and Qualicum First Nations and was one of about 78 panels used in a single winged chevron trap for catching salmon. The panel provides a window into the sophisticated knowledge and unique cultural innovations of the Pentlatch peoples.
This fish trap panel revealed itself to the community in 2017 in the K’ómoks Harbour, on the beach in front of K’ómoks Reserve #1. Knowing how quickly it would deteriorate when exposed to air, a team of K’ómoks Guardians, community members and archaeologists mobilized to salvage the panel. Since then, it has required painstaking care and conservation. It has now been moved to the Deep Bay Marine Field Station, where it will be on display for the next six months as a living exhibit while K’ómoks representatives and collaborators complete its conservation.
The panel can be viewed at the VIU Deep Bay Marine Field Station, 370 Crome Point Road, in Bowser, during regular open hours.
Full media release: Unveiling incredible Pentlatch fish trap panel exhibit at VIU’s Deep Bay Marine Field Station
