Syuw'em (history) of Xwaaqw’um

We have always been connected to this land

Prior to contact, the Indigenous People of Xwaaqw’um lived in reciprocal relationship with the land, harvested from the abundant natural food systems, and tended the land and waters with great care. Families passed down the responsibility to tend to these important areas to their children, and the members of Stqeeye’ Learning Society are direct descendants of the last Indigenous Stewards of the land. Due to this direct connection to this place, Stqeeye’ Land Stewards and Knowledge Keepers are intimately connected to the land and ecosystems at Xwaaqw’um. We share our responsibilities to the land, sea and each other in this spot, as we always have.

In Hul’q’umi’num’, the language of the Quw’utsun peoples, Xwaaqw’um means female merganser duck place, specifically the red-breasted merganser which congregate there year-round.

A spiritual place

Located in the heart of Quw’utsun (Cowichan) Territory, Xwaaqw’um lies across from Hwtl’upnets (Maple Bay) in Sansum Narrows, a stretch of ocean separating Vancouver Island’s eastern coast and Salt Spring Island. 

Since time immemorial Xwaaqw’um has been and continues to be a vital source for local First Nations of shellfish, plants, medicine and animals. It also serves as a significant landscape for cultural and ceremonial purposes.

Xwaaqw’um is spiritually significant to the Quw’utsun people. In Hul’q’umi’num’ (the Cowichan language) the Mount Maxwell is called Hwmet’utsum (Bent Over Place), and it played a pivotal role in a creation story.

When visiting Xwaaqw’um 

When visiting Xwaaqw’um village by land or sea, please be mindful of cultural and sacred sites, sensitive ecological areas, and bird nests which are found throughout our village. We ask that you take out with you what you bring to the park and please pick up after your animals so that we may all enjoy this beautiful space together safely. Huy’ tseep q’u siem (thank you very much to all respected friends and relatives).