Paddles painted with family crests stand in the Haida village of Skidegate, B.C.

Paddles painted with family crests stand in the Haida village of Skidegate, B.C.

The Haida Nation is a community of indigenous people who inhabit the archipelago of Haida Gwaii in British Columbia. According to archaeological evidence, the Haida have been in this region for more than 17,000 years. They are known to be skilled craftsmen with strong trading skills. Their pride and culture is often depicted via carvings of family crests on totem poles.

Canada 150 fact: The Haida community consists of two sub communities: Masset and Skidegate. They have their own dialects, reserves, governing bodies and law and order. However, as Canadian citizens, they also follow the Canadian law.