X̱wemelch'stn facts for kids
X̱wemelch'stn (say "Hwem-elch-stn") is a big community that belongs to the Squamish Nation. The Squamish people are part of the Coast Salish group, who are Native American people living along the coast. The name X̱wemelch'stn means "Fast Moving Water of Fish." This name comes from the nearby Capilano River.
This village is one of the oldest and most important Squamish villages. Today, it is the most populated reserve for the Squamish Nation. It's also known as the Capilano Indian Reserve No. 5. It gets its name from the Capilano chieftaincy, especially Joe Capilano. A "chieftaincy" is like a leadership role passed down in a family. The name Kiapila'noq means "people of Kiap." This was the title for the main chief of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) people in the English Bay area. Chief George Capilano met Captain Vancouver here in 1792. He had also met Captain Cook in 1782.
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What's in X̱wemelch'stn?
This community has over 500 homes. It also has the Chief Joe Mathias Centre and the "Li'l Ones School." There is a Squamish Nation Youth Centre. Many small businesses are also found here.
A Look at X̱wemelch'stn's Past
X̱wemelch'stn first appeared in written history when Captain George Vancouver explored the area. This happened during his journey in 1792. His journals mention X̱wemelch'stn and a nearby village called X̱wáýx̱way. This other village was across the water, where Stanley Park is now. At that time, X̱wemelch'stn was a village protected by a fence of strong posts. It was one of the biggest Sḵwxwú7mesh villages in the Burrard Inlet area.
New Buildings and Businesses
The Capilano Reserve is a place with many new buildings. These include homes and businesses. Most of these are on the West Vancouver side of the reserve. For example, the Park Royal Shopping Centre is here. There are also apartment buildings nearby. A small office tower is close to the Taylor Way intersection. A large park for recreational vehicles is also located under the Lions Gate Bridge. The highway entrance for the bridge is also on reserve land.
Some areas along the Vancouver Harbour are rented out. These areas are used for port facilities. They include places to load and unload large amounts of goods. The money earned from these rentals helps support the Squamish Nation.
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