Cowichan 2008 North American Indigenous Games Spirit Pole - Duncan, BC - Outside Wooden Display Carvings on Waymarking.com

In the Spring of 2008, the Province of British Columbia sponsored the unique Spirit Pole project in association with the Cowichan 2008 North American Indigenous Games. A twenty-foot cedar pole designed by Coast Salish carver Carey Newman travelled to over 47 communities throughout BC. In each community, people of all cultures participated in the carving of the Spirit Pole.

The Spirit Pole began it’s journey in the Cowichan, visiting four communities during the Spirit of Cowichan Celebrations, in the Spring of 2008. From there it travelled through the Province, returning to the Cowichan in July with the 2008 Tribal Journeys. It was honoured at the Opening Ceremonies of the Cowichan 2008 North American Indigenous Games, August 3rd in Duncan.

In the Spring of 2009, Cowichan Tribes Chief Lydia Hwitsum gifted the Spirit Pole to the Cowichan Valley Regional District. The Spirit Pole was ceremoniously placed in its permanent home between the Cowichan Aquatic Centre and the Island Savings Centre in Duncan.