Siska Indian Band facts for kids
The Siska Indian Band (which is called sísqeʔ in their language) is a First Nation group located in the beautiful Fraser Canyon area of British Columbia, a province in Canada. The Fraser Canyon is a deep valley carved by the Fraser River, known for its stunning views.
The Siska Indian Band used to be part of the Scwʼexmx Tribal Council, which is a group of different First Nations communities working together. They are part of the Nlaka'pamux people, who have lived in this region for a very long time. Many other Nlaka'pamux communities are part of other councils, but the large Lytton First Nation, which is north of Siska, is not part of any council.
The main community and offices of the Siska Indian Band are right next to the Trans-Canada Highway (also known as Highway 1). This highway runs between the towns of Lytton and Boston Bar.
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Leaders of the Siska Band
The Siska Indian Band has leaders who help make decisions for their community. These leaders are chosen by the people of the band.
- Fred Sampson is the Chief. The Chief is like the main leader or mayor of the community.
- Angela Phillips is a Councillor.
- Betsy Munro is a Councillor.
Councillors work with the Chief to represent the community and make important choices.
A Look at Siska's History
The area where Siska is located is famous for its two big railway bridges. These bridges cross the river right above the Siska reserve. They belong to Canada's two main railway companies, the CPR (Canadian Pacific Railway) and the CNR (Canadian National Railway). These railways connect Canada from coast to coast!
In old documents and books, you might see Siska spelled as "Cisco." This old spelling is still used on maps for the railway spots and for Cisco Bluff, a cliff that the CPR line goes through. Siska Flat is the main area where the First Nation community lives.
Growing the Economy in Siska
The Siska Band is working on exciting projects to help their community grow. One special project involves creating natural products from plants. These products are based on traditional foods and medicines that the Nlaka'pamux people have used for hundreds of years.
This project is run by the Siska Traditions Society, which is a non-profit group. Their goal is to connect their culture and language with new ways to build their economy. This offers an alternative to activities like logging, which use up natural resources.
Community Programs and Places
The Siska Band has programs and places that help their community learn and share their culture.
- The Siska Museum is a place where visitors can learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Siska people.
Siska's Reserve Lands
The Siska Indian Band has several reserve lands. These are areas of land set aside for the use and benefit of the First Nation community.
- Kupchynalth Indian Reserve No.1
- Kupchynalth Indian Reserve No.2
- Siska Flat Indian Reserve No. 3
- Moosh Indian Reserve No.4
- Zacht Indian Reserve No.5
- Siska Flat Indian Reserve No.5A
- Siska Flat Indian Reserve No.5B
- Humhampt Indian Reserve No.6
- Humhampt Indian Reserve No.6A
- Nahamanak Indian Reserve No.7
- Siska Flat Indian Reserve No.8
