Upper Similkameen Indian Band facts for kids
The Upper Similkameen Indian Band, also known as Upper Smelqmix or Tk̓r̓miw̓s in their language, is a First Nations community in British Columbia, Canada. Their main offices are located in the town of Hedley, in a beautiful area called the Similkameen Country. They are an important part of the Okanagan Nation Alliance, which connects several Okanagan First Nations.
Contents
Who Are the Upper Similkameen People?
The Upper Similkameen Indian Band is one of the many First Nations groups, who are the original peoples of Canada. They have lived in the Similkameen Valley for thousands of years. Their traditional language is part of the Okanagan language family.
Their Community Today
In 2006, the band had 89 registered members. Most of these members live on their traditional lands. About 20 members lived off-reserve at that time. The main place where many band members live is called Chuchuwayha Indian Reserve No. 2.
Where They Live: Their Lands
The Upper Similkameen Indian Band has several special areas of land called Indian reserves. These lands are set aside for the use and benefit of the First Nation community. They are important for their culture, history, and daily life.
Here are some of the lands under the band's care:
- Chuchuwayha Indian Reserve No. 2: This is a large area of land located along the Similkameen River, right next to the town of Hedley. It covers about 2,277 hectares.
- Chuchuwayha Indian Reserve No. 2C: This land is found about 4 miles southwest of Hedley and covers about 121 hectares.
- Iltcoola Indian Reserve No. 7: This reserve is located between Hedley and Princeton, near the Bromley Rock Protected Area. It is about 17 hectares in size.
- Lulu Indian Reserve No. 5: This land is on the left side of the Similkameen River, about 13 miles east of Princeton. It is also next to the Bromley Rock Protected Area and is about 20 hectares.
- Nine Mile Creek Indian Reserve No. 4: This reserve is on the left side of the Similkameen River and covers about 80 hectares.
- One Mile Indian Reserve No. 6: This smaller reserve is located north of Princeton, covering about 4 hectares.
- Vermilion Forks Indian Reserve No. 1: This land is on the right side of the Similkameen River, next to the town of Princeton. It is about 3 hectares.
- Wolf Creek Indian Reserve No. 3: This reserve is on the right side of the Similkameen River, about 9 miles east of Princeton. It covers about 202 hectares.
See also
