Musqueam Through Time - Part 2

Summary

The Musqueam people have a rich history of fishing and occupying their lands, with archaeological evidence dating back 9,000 years. Musqueam researcher Wayne Point collaborates with UBC's Museum of Anthropology to uncover and analyze artifacts, revealing an ancient culture's sophisticated lifestyle. Musqueam artist Susan Point draws inspiration from these findings, creating contemporary artwork that reflects their heritage. The Musqueam community is experiencing a cultural revival, with language programs for all ages to preserve their traditions and connect with their ancestors' way of life.

Takeaways

• 🏞️ The Musqueam people have a long history of fishing and occupying their lands, with archaeological evidence dating back 9,000 years.
• 🔍 Modern archaeological digs near the Musqueam band office have uncovered artifacts dating back 1200 years, indicating a rich cultural heritage.
• 🗺️ As one moves up the Fraser River, the age of the archaeological sites increases, with the oldest sites dating back 9,000 years.
• 🏺 The artifacts found, such as jewellery, spears, and arrowheads, reflect the sophisticated lifestyle of the Musqueam ancestors.
• 📐 The process of analyzing artifacts involves detailed work, including weighing, measuring, and categorizing materials like lithic or bone.
• 🎨 Musqueam artist Susan Point has been inspired by ancient artifacts to create contemporary art, including welcome figures at Vancouver Airport.
• 🌐 The Musqueam territory is acknowledged at Vancouver International Airport, emphasizing the connection to their ancestral lands.
• 👥 The Musqueam community has a warrior society that performs songs and dances to keep their traditions alive and engage both young and old.
• 📚 There has been a cultural revival in the Musqueam community over the past 40 years, with a focus on language and traditions.
• 👶 A Musqueam language program teaches children from preschool, integrating language with cultural practices and values.
• 👵 The Musqueam language is not just for the young; it is also being taught to adults to ensure its continued use and significance in their community.

Q & A

How long have the Musqueam people been fishing and occupying their lands?

The Musqueam people have been fishing and occupying their lands for thousands of years, with the oldest sites dating back to 9,000 years.

What is the significance of the archaeological dig mentioned in the script?

The archaeological dig is significant as it reveals artifacts that date back to about 1200 years, providing insights into the long history of the Musqueam people in the area.

What type of artifacts have been found at the Musqueam site?

Artifacts found at the Musqueam site include jewelry, spears, arrowheads, and ancient artistry, which speak to the rich lifestyle that the ancestors enjoyed.

How are the artifacts analyzed at the Musqueam site?

The artifacts are analyzed through a process that involves identifying their material, weight, measurements, and type, whether they are made of lithic (stone) or bone.

What is the inspiration behind the artwork of Musqueam artist Susan Point?

Susan Point's artwork is inspired by the elegant design of ancient Musqueam artifacts, such as the spindle whorl.

Why is the Musqueam welcome figure at the Vancouver Airport significant?

The Musqueam welcome figure at the Vancouver Airport is significant because it represents the traditional territory of the Musqueam people and serves as a reminder of their historical presence when visitors arrive.

How does the Musqueam warrior society preserve their traditions?

The Musqueam warrior society preserves their traditions by presenting West Coast songs and dances to the public, keeping the community connected to their past.

What changes have occurred in the Musqueam community over the last 40 years?

Over the last 40 years, the Musqueam community has experienced a cultural revival, which is flourishing today, including the establishment of a language program and the teaching of traditional practices.

What is the purpose of the Musqueam language program for children?

The Musqueam language program for children aims not only to teach the traditional language but also to instill cultural teachings and lifestyle practices, ensuring the preservation of their heritage.

Why is the Musqueam language important to the community?

The Musqueam language is crucial to the community as it is not just a means of communication but also a lifestyle and a carrier of cultural knowledge and traditions.

How does the Musqueam community engage with younger generations to preserve their history and culture?

The Musqueam community engages with younger generations by teaching them the ancient language and involving them in cultural practices, ensuring that the youth understand and carry forward their heritage.