Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin First Nation facts for kids
 |
|
| People | Hän |
|---|---|
| Treaty | Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin Final Agreement |
| Headquarters | Dawson City |
| Territory | Yukon |
| Population (2019) | |
| On reserve | 3 |
| On other land | 174 |
| Off reserve | 688 |
| Total population | 865 |
| Government | |
| Chief | Roberta Joseph |
| Website | |
| trondek.ca | |
The Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin (pronounced like 'Tron-dek Hwet-chin') are a First Nation group in the Yukon territory of Canada. Their main home is near Dawson City, Yukon. They used to be called the Dawson Indian Band. The name Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin means 'people of the river'.
Contents
A Long History
Many Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin people today are descendants of the Hän-speaking people. These people have lived along the Yukon River for thousands of years. They traveled widely across their traditional lands.
Traditional Life
The Hän people hunted caribou from large herds. They also caught salmon from the Yukon River. Moose, small animals, and various plants and berries were also important food sources. They used materials from nature to make tools, clothing, and shelters.
The Hän people traded with nearby First Nations. They also kept strong connections through family ties and frequent gatherings.
Meeting Newcomers
In the mid-1800s, European fur traders and missionaries arrived. Meeting these newcomers brought new challenges and chances for the Hän. Trade grew, and new goods and ways of doing business were introduced.
The Hän used their traditional skills along with new items to survive. They also helped the newcomers settle in.
The Gold Rush
In the 1880s, gold was found in the Chʼëdäh Dëk, or Fortymile River, area. This spot was important to the Hän for hunting caribou and fishing for grayling. In 1896, even more gold was found near Tr'ochëk. This was where the Yukon and Klondike Rivers meet.
Tr'ochëk was a place where the Hän had camped for hundreds of years. The Klondike River had lots of salmon. The discovery of gold led to a huge rush, bringing thousands of people to Tr'ochëk and the areas around it.
Chief Isaac's Leadership
Chief Isaac was a respected Hän leader. He saw how the many newcomers would change his people's lives. He worked with the Government of Canada and the Anglican Church. Together, they moved his people from Tr'ochëk to Moosehide. Moosehide is about 5 kilometers (3 miles) downriver.
Chief Isaac welcomed the gold seekers. But he also reminded them that they were benefiting from the land that belonged to the Hän. He knew that new ways of life would impact Hän culture. To protect their heritage, he gave many traditional songs and dances to First Nations people living in Alaska.
After the Klondike Gold Rush, the Hän worked to find a balance. They wanted to keep their traditional lifestyle while also adapting to the new ways.
Taking Back Their Land
In the 1970s, Yukon First Nations began the process of making Land Claims. These claims are about getting back rights to their traditional lands. The Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin started negotiating their own Land Claim in 1991.
The Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin Final Agreement was signed on July 16, 1998. It officially came into effect on September 15, 1998. This agreement helps them manage their land and resources.
Looking to the Future
The Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin government is growing. It supports its citizens in building a strong future. They work to keep their traditional knowledge and connection to the land alive.
Cultural Preservation
They promote the Hän language and teach traditional skills. Elders share their wisdom with the younger generations. Investing in youth has also made the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin community stronger.
This respect for their past and dedication to the future is shown in many ways:
- The Moosehide Gatherings happen every two years.
- The Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre was created.
- Trʼochëk was named a National Historic Site.
- The traditional songs, once given to Alaskan First Nations people, have been returned.
All these efforts show the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin's pride in their rich heritage. They are also investing in their future.
Mammoth Discovery
In 2022, something amazing was found on Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin land. Miners discovered the mummified body of a young woolly mammoth. This rare find was very exciting for both the First Nation and scientists.
Images for kids
-
The logo of the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin First Nation.
