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Land, Indigenous peoples, settlers, and today’s communities.

Since time immemorial, Ancestors of the people called K’ómoks today consisting of the Pentlatch, Ieeksan (eye-ick-sun), Sasitla (sa-seet-la), Xa’xe (ha-hey) and Sathloot (sath-loot) people have been the caretakers of this land, which they called the “Land of Plenty.” This Land of Plenty stretched from what is known today as Kelsey Bay in the north, down to Hornby and Denman Island in the south, and included the watershed and estuary of the Puntledge River, also acknowledging that these boundaries and place names are colonial constructs.

The K’ómoks First Nation refer to the lands between the bays of Comox and the Beaufort mountain range as the path between, it was a travel and trade route to the Alberni corridor and a connection to the indigenous communities on the western side of the island.

Land agreements included the 1884 Settlement Act stripped these lands for its caretakers. At the Museum we acknowledge that we are a colonial created institution, and I would like to thank Charlene Everson, Emily Shopland and Violet Williams for guiding the museum in early discussion on what reconciliation could mean for our organization and how we could create actionable steps; in maintaining a positive dialogue with a forward focus, sharing contemporary K’omoks narratives, and incorporating First Nation languages where they felt it appropriate. Their time and guidance helped us gain insight and learn how to best support their voice in our museum’s walls. This is an ongoing process and we have so much more to learn.

Building a community

Immigration

Cumberland has been home to many diverse communities. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries people immigrated to the Comox Valley for many reasons, including employment, a chance at a better life, and new homes. While some of these communities may no longer be here today, they all helped to shape Cumberland into what it is today and their stories remain.

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Blue Trunk with Wooden Slats
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Canada's rich immigration history is shaped by the collective contributions of diverse communities, each playing a vital role in building and transforming the nation. Immigrants from Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond brought their cultures, skills, and resilience, contributing to the development of vibrant communities like Cumberland.

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By 1902, there were approximately 450 Asian miners working Cumberland. Only 165 were paid directly by the company.

Asian miners faced fierce discrimination, alienation, and endless scapegoating.

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