A totem archway depicting pre-settlement history will be carved in Campbell River.
According to Island Coastal Economic Trust, the archway will be carved by Wei Wai Kum master carver Bill Henderson and his nephews Greg and junior at the entrance of the Baikie Island/Raven Park area.
The archway is part of a larger project to transform the area into a community space, while showcasing the history of the land before the settlements. The initiative is led by the Rotary Club of Campbell River, with the trust investing $50,000 into the work.
The trust says Henderson is recognized for his style portrayed in masks, paddles, and totems.
“He has carved more than 50 totems and hosted exhibitions around the world,” said the Trust.
“He’s always remained closely tied to his home, too, donating masks to families and his community to use in ceremonies.”
Along with the archway, there will be a new parking area, trail upgrades, and interpretive signs reinforcing First Nations history for the area.
They add both the Wei Wai Kum First nation and Wei Wai Kai will work with the city and district museum to make the signs, as well as helping with the carving.
