Tse’k’wa, which means “Rock House” in Dane-zaa/Beaver language, has been a place for the Dane-zaa people to meet, share, rest, and celebrate for over 12,000 years.
The heart of Tse’k’wa is the cave, perched on the edge of a steep cliff overlooking the Peace Valley. The cave is full of history and stories, dreams, and magic. It is a portal to the past and a doorway to the future.
Tse’k’wa National Historic Site is the result of a unique collaboration between three Dane-ẕaa Nations: Doig River First Nation, Prophet River First Nation, and West Moberly First Nations.
Recognizing the cultural and archaeological importance of this sacred site, the three Dane-zaa Nations came together in 2012 to form the Tse’k’wa Heritage Society. Each Nation is represented by a director on the THS Board of Directors. Under the leadership of the THS, Tse’k’wa was designated a National Historic Site by Parks Canada in 2019.
You can find out more about each of the partner First Nations on their websites:
Left to right: Diane Bigfoot, Garry Oker, and Laura Webb
Our Team
The Tse’k’wa National Historic Site is managed by a small, dedicated team.
Alyssa Currie Executive Director
Alyssa was born and raised in Dawson Creek and returned to the Peace Region in 2017. She first learned about Tse’k’wa while she was completing a bachelor’s degree in English and History at the University of Northern British Columbia. She went on to finish her master’s in English at the University of Victoria. As Executive Director, Alyssa oversees day-to-day management of the site and works with the Board of Directors to implement their mission.
Careers
Tse’k’wa regularly hires motivated and capable staff who want to promote culture and preserve heritage. Positions become available on a seasonal basis but vacancies can occur throughout the year. Ongoing applications are always welcome!
In Memoriam
Diane Bigfoot (1963-2023) proudly represented Prophet River First Nation on the Tse’k’wa Board of Directors since 2012. Diane was actively involved in the purchase of Tse’k’wa and creation of the Society. She tirelessly advocated for the preservation and celebration of the site, as well as the Dane-zaa culture. She was passionate about traditional knowledge, history, language, and about sharing it with youth and the broader community. Her work on behalf of Tse’k’wa has created a legacy that will last for many generations.
“Time for us to put our history down… now is not too late.” —Diane Bigfoot
