Geo-archaeology and Haíɫzaqv oral history: Long-term human investment and resource use at EkTb-9, Triquet Island, N̓úláw̓itxˇv Tribal Area, Central Coast, British Columbia, Canada

Abstract

Archaeological site EkTb-9 is located on Triquet Island in the N̓úláw̓itxˇv Tribal area of Haíɫzaqv (Heiltsuk) Nation territory, on the Central Coast of British Columbia, Canada. The results of radiometric dating and the analysis of palaeoenvironmental correlates indicate that the site was a persistent place of repeated human occupation spanning the early post-glacial period to the present day. This paper focuses on the paleogeographic and geomorphic setting of EkTb-9. Stratigraphic records show a complex array of site formation processes. Marine beach sediments are elevated above modern sea level, an extensive sand sheet consistent with a possible palaeotsunami event is present, as well as organic soils and peat deposits. Cultural strata are interbedded with these and include both shell-less and preserved shell accumulations. Results from our geo-archaeological and palaeoenvironmental assessments indicate that the outer coastal island changed from what was likely an open landscape during the early post-glacial period to the hypermaritime coastal temperate rainforest environs of the present day. Our interpretations are combined with Haíɫzaqv oral history and discussions are organized by Haíɫzaqv temporal phases identified for the N̓úláw̓itxˇv Tribal area. Combining Indigenous knowledge with our archaeological interpretations enhances our collective understanding of the long-term record of human occupation and investment at EkTb-9.