Nine students are gearing up for an archaeological field school experience with the Esk’etemc First Nation, set in the Alkali Valley of British Columbia. The program not only teaches Indigenous students about archaeology but also connects them with their ancestral history and culture. Greg Harry, a participant from Alkali Lake, expressed his excitement to learn about his heritage and how his ancestors lived in the past.
Earlier this year, the Williams Lake First Nation and Esk’etemc uncovered numerous undocumented communities following the Chilcotin River landslide in July 2024. The discoveries included 70 sites, with 31 identified as pre-contact Secwépemc village sites. These findings highlight the rich history within their traditional territories and emphasize the importance of preserving and celebrating their heritage.
Calvin Dubray, Esk’etemc’s education director, collaborated with Thompson Rivers University to create the field school program, offering hands-on training in archaeological skills on Esk’etemc land. Upon completion, the students will be prepared to work on archaeological sites independently. Audrey Grinder expressed her passion for archaeology, describing the thrill of discovery during excavations.
The program stands out for being governed by Esk’etemc Nation’s protocols, ensuring control over access to project findings. According to Beth Bedard, the TRU instructor, combining oral histories with scientific data provides a comprehensive understanding of the community’s past. The field school has not only provided students with valuable experience but has also deepened their connection to their roots and cultural identity.
Teena Ogden, a participant at the field school, described the experience as rejuvenating and expressed a newfound passion for learning about her history and language. The program has not only sparked career interests for some but has also instilled a sense of purpose and belonging for others.