Sq'éwlets First Nation facts for kids
The Sq'éwlets First Nation (also known as Scowlitz) is a group of First Nations people in Canada. They are part of the larger Stó:lō nation. The Sq'éwlets live in the Fraser Valley region of British Columbia, specifically near Harrison Bay. Their traditional lands are located between the towns of Chehalis and Lake Errock, British Columbia.
The Sq'éwlets First Nation has its own band government. This is like a local government that manages the affairs of their community. They are also a member of the Stó꞉lō Tribal Council, which helps different Stó:lō communities work together. In the past, this First Nation was known as the Scowlitz First Nation.
Sq'éwlets Land: Indian Reserves
An Indian Reserve is a special area of land set aside by the Canadian government for the use and benefit of a First Nation. The Sq'éwlets First Nation manages three main reserves:
- Scowlitz Indian Reserve No. 1: This reserve is 69.0 hectares (about 170 acres) in size. It is located at the entrance of Harrison Bay, close to Harrison Mills.
- Williams Indian Reserve No. 2: This reserve is smaller, at 9.7 hectares (about 24 acres). It is also found at the entrance of Harrison Bay, next to Harrison Mills.
- Squawkum Creek Indian Reserve No. 3: This is the largest reserve, covering 158.0 hectares (about 390 acres). It is located at the southwest corner of Harrison Bay.
Ancient Burial Site: Qithyll/Harrison Knob
The Sq'éwlets First Nation is involved in an important archaeological project. This project is focused on Harrison Hill and a smaller peak called Harrison Knob. The Sq'éwlets people know this area as Qithyll.
This site is an ancient burial ground. It has unusual burial mounds, which are sometimes called the Scowlitz Mounds or the Fraser Valley Pyramids. There are 198 of these pyramid-like mounds, grouped into 15 different clusters. These mounds are a significant part of the Sq'éwlets history and culture.
