Graeme Teague Photography

Haida Totem 0157

Caption: Haida Totem 0157
Location: Haida Gwaii
Copyright: © Graeme Teague 832-526-1123 gtphoto@shaw.ca
AGPix ID: AGPix_GrTePh23_1509
Digital Original
Comments: Totems and homes - Old Massett indigenous village, Haida Gwaii. Way cool community/village with both European and native design homes and totem poles in their front yards! On the left: Geoffrey White Memorial Pole - Christian White - artist. On the right: Morris White Pole - Christian White - artist. Old Massett has at least 20 major poles, from welcome signage to hospital, homes, cemetery, church, front yards and schools. Old Massett is one of 2 villages where the Haida Nation regrouped in the late 1800s, having been forced to leave most of their ancient villages due to their declining numbers, a severe consequence of smallpox introduced by Europeans. The area of land it is on is legally designated Masset Indian Reserve No. 1, or Masset 1. The original name of the settlement was Uttewas, meaning "white-slope village" in the Haida language. It is populated by Haida people of the Eagle phratry. Old Masset is the administrative seat of the Council of the Haida Nation, and is home to about 800 Haida, including some well-known native carvers. GTPhoto is a wonderful knowledge/photo agency with all award winning photographers, authors, filmmakers, scientists & guides covering our world - PNW coastal native culture and Haida Gwaii absolute specialties.