Shared Histories: Witsuwit'en - Settler Relationships in Smithers, British Columbia, 1913-1973

WINNER of the 2019 BC Historical Writing Competition! Using extensive first-hand interviews with both Witsuwit'en and settler elders, Shared Histories describes what happened in the 50 years after the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway established Smithers in the middle of Witsuwit'en territory in northwest British Columbia. By examining these relationships in the context of the history of colonization throughout the province, the author has written an open and honest portrayal of the ways in which the Witsuwit'en were marginalized, but still managed to create and maintain a place for themselves in a community that didn't want them. Written with extensive consultation with members of the Witsuwit'en community and some of the town's earliest settler families, Shared Histories brings to life the often unwritten history of the ways in which these communities both clashed and joined forces. Its careful use of academic sources and the lived experience of participants make it the kind of history we all need to read.

Born and raised in Witsuwit'en territories in Smithers, British Columbia, McCreary is an assistant professor of geography at Florida State University. His research focuses on Indigenous relationships to processes of resource extraction and the development of northern towns. His extensive media experience includes radio, print and online forums.

ISBN: 9781928195047
Format: Paperback
Pages: 200
Publisher: Creekstone Press
Published: August 23, 2018

Shared Histories is a new narrative and a new imaginary for all of Canada and it must be considered a primer for the ongoing journey of reconciliation - there is no arrival. I love this book. It is smart, has depth and scope, is beautifully written and is solidly researched. We must know the pain and horror - the hard stuff- to appreciate the strength, resilience, determination, and relentless pragmatism of the Witsuwit'en peoples. The future must be founded on the unflinching reality of the past. Treat this book as a friend and teacher and it will nourish you with new stories as it draws from the past. - Val Napoleon, Law Foundation Chair of Aboriginal Justice and Governance at the University of Victoria.