Back in 2007, EcoPlan had the honour of working with Kwicksutaineuk Haxwa`mis First Nation (KHFN) on their first Comprehensive Community Plan (CCP). The plan focused on the redevelopment Gwa-yas-dums, their homeland village located on Gilford Island on BC’s midcoast. A major element of this redevelopment was the restoration of their Big House to its original state.
After several years of gathering funding and partners, construction is now underway! The full story and photos can be found here. The work includes major renovations like reinforcing the existing beams, lowering and restoring the floor, restoring the original cedar siding and painting a traditional design on the front of the house based on archival photographs of the village.
The Big House will be a hub for tourism activities like cultural feasts and tours, and due to its location facing the water, will act as a natural marketing tool for the many kayakers and boaters that pass through the channel.
Very exciting news. Congratulations KHFN!