Tsimshian

The Tsimshian People

The Tsimshian are a group of Indigenous people who live near the coast of British Columbia in Canada, and also in Alaska in the United States. Their name, Tsimshian, means "Inside the Skeena River". Today, there are about 45,000 Tsimshian people.

The Tsimshian have lived near the Skeena River and the coast for thousands of years. Long ago, they moved from far up the river to the coast, where they built villages. They are known for their fishing, especially for salmon, and for building strong homes called longhouses from cedar wood.

The Tsimshian have special families and leaders called hereditary chiefs. These leaders get their roles from their mothers’ families. They have important feasts called potlatches to celebrate special events. The Tsimshian make beautiful art from cedar wood, like masks and boxes, and they tell stories through their art.

The Tsimshian speak a language called Sm'algyax, which means "real or true tongue". Some Tsimshian live in eight different communities in British Columbia and one in Alaska called Metlakatla. They are one of the largest First Nations groups in northwest British Columbia.

Tsimshian Clans

The Tsimshian have four main clans, or family groups:

• Gispwudwada (Killer Whale Clan)
• Ganhada (Raven Clan)
• Laxgibuu (Wolf Clan)
• Laxsgiik (Eagle Clan)

Each clan has its own special stories and symbols. The Tsimshian are proud of their clan history and traditions.