Summary:

Crossroads Cultural Resource Management participated in what was perhaps our most emotional, profound and unique reburial project to date. Located atop the steep shores of Green Lake, a First Nations burial site was slowly slumping toward the water. Long bones began emerging 40 years ago.  In 1997, archaeologists relocated one burial farther back on the slope; however up to 15 individuals remained in this cemetery.

Approach:

This project was an unprecedented collaborative approach in Shushwap territory. Since 1997, BC Archaeology Branch has worked toward moving those individuals from the sliding cemetery to more stable ground. Crossroads worked in collaboration with the Canim Lake Band, local landowners, eight archaeologists from Archer CRM Partnership and Archaeology Branch. Crossroads managed the concerns of all parties involved and acted as liaison between the First Nation, landowners, technical consultants and the government.

Results:

This project is historic in British Columbia. Unlike most archaeology, which is development-driven, BC Archaeology Branch acted as the client. The band has since purchased the site. They plan to make it into a memorial.  Managing reburial issues and concerns often utilizes the full spectrum of CRM perspectives.  And to really understand the connection First Nations have to their ancestors, one has to experience the reburial ceremony.  Crossroads ensured that all parties emerged pleased with their involvement and the overall outcome of the project, and we continue to remain involved with the Canim Lake Band.