Babine Portage, British Columbia facts for kids
Babine Portage, British Columbia, is a small community located in central British Columbia, Canada. It sits on the western side of Babine Lake, about 12 kilometers north of the Portage Yekooche First Nation Reserve. This area is part of the traditional territory of the Babine people. Babine Portage is 782 meters (2,565 feet) above sea level.
Many members of the Yekooche First Nation spend their summers at Babine Portage. They often return to the Portage Reserve in the fall. People from nearby towns like Tache, Fort St. James, and Prince George also visit this area.
The lake is a vital source of food. People catch salmon and kokanee fish here. Nearby areas like Salt Lake, Frank's Meadow, and a lagoon are good for hunting. Hunters find moose, deer, and bear. Frank's Meadow might have been named after a person called Frank who lived there long ago. People also fish at 4 Mile and 6 Mile Creek, which are east of the camp. The fish caught at Babine Portage helps the Yekooche people have food for the winter.
History of Babine Portage
The name "Babine Portage" comes from the 1800s. At that time, this spot was an important entry point for canoes. People would carry their canoes and goods across the land here. This was done to reach the trading post of the Hudson's Bay Company.
In the past, there were many cabins in the area. Five cabins were on the east side of a creek, and seven were on the west side. In 2003, most of these cabins were destroyed by grass fires. Only three cabins remained. The cabins on the west side were used by the Yekooche people during summer. They stayed there for hunting and catching salmon. On the east side, one cabin was built by the Hudson's Bay Company. The other four belonged to Joseph Chase Ells and Company in the second half of the 1900s.
Local Traditions
A special tradition at Babine Portage is called t'es'ing. This is done to first-time visitors. People rub coal on their cheeks. This is believed to help keep bad weather away from the camp. It's a unique way to welcome new people to the community.
