Chief Hunter Jack facts for kids

Hunter Jack of Shalalth inhabited the Bridge River Country region of southwestern British Columbia. He was a larger-than-life indigenous personality who died in 1905.

Character

His formal name was Jack Tashpola or Tash Poli. He was born at 22-Mile post. He was called chief of D'Arcy, We Enkekti, or Hunter Jack. Folklore portrays him as the hero who negotiated peace among First Nations and toward Chinese miners.

Contemporary newspaper accounts present a more complex character. He would often threaten with violence anyone who crossed his path.

Hunting and trapping

Jack was a first-class big game hunter, who trapped and hunted in the Bridge River Country. Renowned for storytelling, he would boast of hand-to-hand combat with wild animals. He assisted guides who led trophy hunters to the Lillooet area. In the 1880s, he met visiting hunter Captain (later Admiral) Seymour, who was so impressed by Jack that he subsequently sent him a flag and naval uniform as gifts. Jack raised the flag in front of his cabin and wore the uniform on occasions. His colleagues did not question this self-titled status. He exerted significant control over the meat sale business in the area.

Mining

He was one of most successful placer miners in the district. He never lived on the reserve but had a cabin near the confluence of the Hurley River. He held potlatches at which he presented gold nuggets to his guests. Pointing his rifle to intimidate, he drove the Chinese miners from Marshall Creek and Tyaughton Creek. Many believed Jack found most of his gold around the head of Tyax (Tyaughton) creek.

In 1913, old and decayed sluice boxes were discovered at a site which was possibly where Jack once found impressive gold nuggets. Alternative versions claim searches for the location were unsuccessful.

Ferry

In the late 1800s, Jack operated the first ferry across the upper Bridge River for a period. For this toll operation, he used a canoe to carry passengers and supplies, but horses swam.

Death

In 1905, Jack and his son William were paddling a boat on Seton Lake. In rough water close to shore, each time Jack attempted to stand, he fell, striking his head on a section of the boat. Wading to shore, William dragged his father. On dry land, William built a fire. After warming himself at a residence about two miles away, William returned alone to find his father dead. Jack was about 70 years of age. The official verdict was death from excessive drinking and exposure. He was buried at D’Arcy and his son Thomas Jack, succeeded him as hereditary chief.