‘Xwaaqw’um’ Re-launch of the Snuhwulh (Canoe)

Seven years ago, I had the honour of working as an assistant carver alongside Tla-o-qui-aht Master Carver Tutakwisnapšiƛ Joe Martin and Lead Carver/Project Steward Joe Akerman to create a Coast Salish canoe.

In the local Hul’qumi’num language, the word for canoe is Snuhwulh.

After nearly six months of work, the Snuhwulh was launched at a community gathering on Salt Spring Island. Relatives from near and far joined in celebration as dancing, songs, and ceremony led by the late elder Tousilum marked the canoe’s first journey. The Snuhwulh was named Xwaaqw’um and gifted to Tousilum in recognition of his many years of dedication to his people and culture.

Since then, the Xwaaqw’um Snuhwulh has been paddled in youth programs, Tribal Journeys, and community gatherings. In recent years, however, she has been resting in storage.

This summer, a group of local supporters joined Joe Akerman for a work party to prepare the canoe for Tribal Journeys once again. Local Quw’utsun community members will paddle her to the host nation, the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe near Port Angeles, WA.

Here is a photo story of our morning together, sprucing up the Xwaaqw’um Snuhwulh and preparing her to return to the water for a new adventure.

Photography: Christopher Roy | @christopherroy