Here at the Museum we are planning the next exhibition, Mountaineers: A History of Community Use on the Skagit Range. We are actively involved in the research and community outreach phase, and are contacting local individuals and community groups about their mountain experiences. We are also looking for loans or donations of equipment and gear associated with hiking and exploring the Skagits.
Lhilheqey (Cheam) Ridge at the 7000 ft level, during the Grossman group climb, 1907 (CMA PP501181)
Which mountains are the Skagits? The Skagit Range is a subsection of the Cascade Mountains that extends to the Fraser River in the north, down to Washington in the south. Famous peaks include Lhilheqey (Mt. Cheam), Selísi (Mt. Slesse), and Loyúmthel (Liumchen Mtn). This area has been used extensively by aboriginal groups for thousands of years, and is included in the Stó:lō First Nation’s S’ólh Téméxw (Our World).
In addition to the community outreach and knowledge gathering we are currently conducting, if any individuals want to reach out we are happy to hear from you. If you have a story, photograph, old journal, or equipment associated with your relationship to the local mountains, don’t hesitate to get in touch. (Remember, a local element is crucial, so while we enjoy hearing stories from other parts of the world, our focus is on the Chilliwack connection.)
So…Did your family have regular backcountry excursions? Were you a member of Chilliwack Search and Rescue, the Chilliwack Outdoor Club, or did your Guides group explore the Skagits? Do you remember your family going out for berry picking excursions, or do you participate in cultural activities in the mountains? Maybe you are ready to retire your old backpack or the trusty hikers that got you through many the upcountry trail…
1928 excursion into Loyúmthel (Liumchen) Valley via the first horseback trail in the region (CMA 2016.052)
If so, get in touch with our Curator! Email Adrienne@chilliwackmuseum.ca, call 604-795-5210, or stop by the Archives at 9291 Corbould St (open M, W, F 9am to 4:30pm; Tu and Th by appointment).
We are interested in a range of modern, as well as traditional and historic, stories, photos and artifacts.
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