A couple, Rick and Jeanie McLean, from the Tahltan Nation, stumbled upon significant carved stones during a beach outing that shed light on the historical ties, treaties, and diplomacy between neighboring nations. Rick, a former Tahltan chief, and Jeanie, a former Yukon cabinet minister, found the rocks adorned with carvings like fish and a shield within a bear paw while enjoying a day at Shakes Creek in northern B.C.

These discoveries, according to the McLeans, sparked reflections on the past and the individuals who might have last witnessed these ancient carvings. Rick recalled tales from his great-grandmother about the cultural importance of Shakes Creek, serving as a focal point for Tahltan and Tlingit gatherings, fishing, and trading. The couple expressed the significance of unearthing such artifacts, emphasizing the conversations they initiate about cultural heritage transcending borders.

Their social media posts showcasing the carved rocks have garnered considerable attention, including interest from universities and a clan leader in Alaska. Tahltan Band Council Chief, Richard Jackson, acknowledged the presence of petroglyphs near Telegraph Creek but highlighted the novelty of discovering them in the Shakes Creek area. Jackson stressed the stones’ cultural value, particularly in the context of the peace treaty between the Tahltan and Tlingit nations.

CBC News attempted to contact the Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, B.C., for insights on the historical significance of the petroglyphs. However, the nation’s communications department mentioned the necessity of consulting elders and knowledge keepers before providing further information, in adherence to their cultural protocols.