Klattasine Facts for Kids

Lhatŝ’aŝʔin (also known as Klatsassan or Klattasine) was a respected chief of the Tsilhqot'in people. He led a small group of warriors in attacks on road-building crews in British Columbia during April and May 1864. These events were part of what became known as the Chilcotin War.

The Tsilhqot'in workers building the road were not treated fairly. They were often hungry and not paid enough for their hard work. This unfair treatment made Lhatŝ’aŝʔin decide to act. He declared war to protect his people.

On April 29, 1864, Lhatŝ’aŝʔin and his warriors arrived at a ferry crossing along the Homathko River. They attacked the ferry-keeper, Tim Smith, and took the food and supplies stored there.

The next day, Lhatŝ’aŝʔin's group attacked the main road-building camp. Several road workers were killed in this attack. Further along the trail, they encountered foreman William Brewster and three of his men, who also died. William Manning, a settler at Puntzi Lake, was also killed. To avoid capture, Lhatŝ’aŝʔin and his followers moved deeper into the land. They later ambushed a supply train led by Alexander McDonald, and more lives were lost. In total, 19 settlers died during these conflicts.

Capture and Trial

Lhatŝ’aŝʔin and his followers were captured on August 11, 1864. They had been invited to a meeting to discuss peace and end the Chilcotin War. However, this meeting was a trick. Once they arrived, they were arrested.

They were put on trial in Quesnel, British Columbia. On October 26, 1864, Lhatŝ’aŝʔin and his fellow war chiefs were executed.

Later Exoneration

Many years later, on October 23, 2014, British Columbia Premier Christy Clark officially cleared Lhatŝ’aŝʔin and his fellow war chiefs of any wrongdoing. This act recognized that they were defending their land and people during a difficult time.

Klattasine facts for kids

Capture and Trial

Later Exoneration

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