About
The Land of Maquinna Cultural Society was established in 1995. The mission of the organization is to preserve, protect and interpret the cultural history of the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations (MMFN). The vision is to educate the world community about the cultural heritage of the Nootka people. The Elders of the Community, at that time, headed by Chief Ambrose Maquinna, defined what Economic Development meant for the MMFN. Yuquot (also known as Friendly Cove) was the common focus. Sharing our history was another. Boaters drive by the site just because it’s so beautiful, said another. They discussed cultural material that had been “taken away”, artefacts like the Whaler’s Shrine. We know we won’t get everything back but we need a place to keep them, they agreed. Our young people can learn about our history from them. We need a building. Their awareness of the importance of the culture and value in using it to benefit the community was clear. The tradition of excellence for which the Nootka people were renowned was also a key factor.
To that end, the Economic Development Program created the non-profit Society for the specific purpose of fundraising for an interpretive centre at Yuquot.
Other initiatives included:
The Elders’ vision to develop Yuquot into a world-class visitor destination that is economically sustainable has proved to be a unique opportunity to foster community self awareness, pride and esteem. They truly recognized the importance of balancing cultural traditions with contemporary realities to enhance the vibrant and growing future for generations to follow.
Margarita James
President, The Land of Maquinna Cultural Society
To that end, the Economic Development Program created the non-profit Society for the specific purpose of fundraising for an interpretive centre at Yuquot.
Other initiatives included:
- Establishment of existing commercial operations at the site (history tours, accommodation, transportation and seasonal commemorative events);
- Supporting education and community skill capacity building;
- Refurbishment and installation of site infrastructure and amenities;
- The return of heritage artefacts from various institutions;
- Completion of the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations’ Agenda Paper and acceptance by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada;
- The coordination of international exhibits; and
- Creating partnerships with all levels of government and industry.
The Elders’ vision to develop Yuquot into a world-class visitor destination that is economically sustainable has proved to be a unique opportunity to foster community self awareness, pride and esteem. They truly recognized the importance of balancing cultural traditions with contemporary realities to enhance the vibrant and growing future for generations to follow.
Margarita James
President, The Land of Maquinna Cultural Society