After almost 6 months of work, the Xwaaqw'um Snuhwulh (canoe) was launched today to the delight of all the relations who joined to celebrate the launch. Dancing, songs and ceremony were led by local elder Tousilum (Ron George). The new Snuhwulh (Canoe) was named Xwaaqw'um and given to elder Tousilum as a gift for years of dedication to his people and culture. The Snuhwulh was carved from a single cedar tree led by Tla-o-qui-aht / Nuu-chah-nulth Master Carver Joe Martin, project lead assistant carver Joe Akerman, assistant carver Christopher Roy, and dozens of Quw’utsun (Cowichan) and Salt Spring locals. The Snuhwulh will be used for local youth programs, Tribal Journey and local community gatherings.

As part of the making of the Snuhwulh, the canoe was steamed to widen the beam and to rocker the bottom to enable the Snuhwulh to carry more people and gear, as well to help it turn more easily when in the water. This timelapse video shows what the work looked like on that day.

Here are some of the photos from the launch shared with the community.

Photos by Christopher Roy.