Penelakut facts for kids
The Penelakut are a large First Nation group, with about 1,000 members. They speak a language called Hul'qumi'num. This language is part of the larger Halkomelem language family.
The Penelakut people mainly live on Penelakut Island, which used to be called Kuper Island. This island is located near the southern tip of Vancouver Island. They also live on Galiano Island. Their traditional lands reach as far as Tent Island. Tent Island is now private land and no one lives there.
Who Are the Penelakut?
The Penelakut are an important part of the Coast Salish people. They have lived in their traditional territories for thousands of years. Their culture is rich with history and traditions.
Where Do They Live?
The Penelakut community is centered on Penelakut Island. This island is one of the many beautiful Gulf Islands found off the coast of British Columbia. Living on islands means the ocean has always been a very important part of their way of life.
What Does Their Name Mean?
The name Penelakut comes from the word penálaxeth''. This was the name of a village on the northeast side of Penelakut Island. This village was once the biggest Hul'qumi'num-speaking village in the Gulf Islands.
The word penálaxeth' means "log buried on the beach." This name might refer to the many longhouses that used to stand on the beach near the village. Longhouses were large, traditional homes built by First Nations people.
