Douglas First Nation facts for kids
The Douglas First Nation, also known as the Xa'xtsa First Nation, is a group of Indigenous people in British Columbia, Canada. They are part of the In-SHUCK-ch Nation, which is a smaller part of the larger St'at'imc people. The Douglas First Nation, along with the Skatin and Samahquam communities, share family connections, culture, and language.
The In-SHUCK-ch are the southernmost group of the Lillooet people. The main community for the Douglas First Nation is called Xa'xtsa. This village is located on their main reserve at the top of Harrison Lake, close to an old gold rush town called Port Douglas.
Who are the Douglas First Nation?
The Douglas First Nation is like a local government for their community. They are responsible for managing their lands and services for their people. They are one of many First Nations across Canada.
Population of the Douglas First Nation
As of September 2009, there were 235 official members of the Douglas First Nation. These members live in different places:
- 51 members lived on the Douglas First Nation's own reserves.
- 39 members lived on reserves managed by other First Nations.
- 145 members lived off-reserve, meaning they lived in other towns or cities.
Douglas First Nation Reserves
An Indian Reserve is a special area of land set aside for the use and benefit of a First Nation. The Douglas First Nation manages these reserves:
- Douglas Indian Reserve No. 8: This is their main reserve. It is located at the top of Harrison Lake, where the Lillooet River flows in. It covers about 416.80 hectares (which is about 1,030 acres).
- Lelachen Indian Reserve No. 6: This reserve is found on both sides of the Lillooet River. It is about 15.20 hectares (about 37.5 acres). The St'at'imc language name for a fishing camp and special cultural site near a bridge on this reserve is (s)lápus.
- Tipella Indian Reserve No. 7: This is a smaller reserve located on the right bank of the Lillooet River. It is about 0.30 hectares (less than an acre).
