Wannock River facts for kids

The Wannock River is a short but important river in British Columbia, Canada. It flows from Owikeno Lake and empties into Rivers Inlet. This area is part of the beautiful Central Coast region. The river is very close to the town of Rivers Inlet, which is a main home for the Wuikinuxv people. The Katit Indian Reserve No. 1 is located along the river's banks, and it even includes Katit Island, which is an island right in the river.

What's in a Name?

The Wannock River has had a few names over time. It was once known as the Owikeno River or Oweekayno River. The name "Wannock" comes from the local Indigenous language.

The Meaning of Wannock

The name "Wannock" has an interesting history. It is said to mean "poison." This name came about because, a long time ago, visitors who were not welcome sometimes became sick or died suddenly. People believed these deaths were caused by poison.

A Historical Event

Around 1848, the Wuikinuxv people faced a difficult time. A powerful group called the Bella Bellas invited them to a special gathering called a potlatch. However, it was a trick. The Bella Bellas waited in hiding and attacked the Wuikinuxv people as they arrived in their canoes. Many men were killed, and women and children were captured.

The next morning, the Bella Bellas continued their attack on Katil. Katil was one of the oldest and most important villages of the Wuikinuxv people. It was located on a small island in Owikeno Lake, near the start of the river. In this second attack, more people were killed, and many more women and children were taken. This event was a very sad part of the history of the Wuikinuxv people.