The Dakelh (also known as Carrier) are part of the vast Athapaskan tribe. The people are divided into three groups: the Northern, the Southern, and the Central Dakelh. Seasonal Food Sources
The north-central area of British Columbia is covered with dense forests of fir, spruce, and pine. All over British Columbia there are lakes, streams, swamps, and rivers. The landscape changes from slow rolling hills in the Blackwater region to large mountainous regions along the eastern border. Map of Dakelh Trade area
Dakelh clothing was mainly made out of animal skins and furs. Jewellery was made out of bones, teeth, and claws. In the summer men would wear a thigh length caribou-skin tunic, skin leggings, and a breechcloth. Women would wear a long skin tunic, leggings, and an apron. Tunics were decorated with dyed porcupine quills. In the winter both men and women wore robes, moccasins, mittens, and caps made from animal skins.
Dakelh houses were built out of wood and earth which meant that they didn’t last a long time. These large houses had an entrance at each end with a fireplace in the middle of the room. Sleeping areas were lined with spruce boughs and furs.
The traditions of the Dakelh people have been passed down from generation to generations through their elder stories and artwork. The elder stories are a very important part of Dakelh culture. They are used as teaching aids for children, as historical records, and act to reinforce the values, beliefs, and behaviours of the Dakelh society.
Breechcloth = a breechcloth is a piece of cloth
that is worn around the hips.