Che’ Semiahmah-Sen, Che’ Shesh Whe Weleq-sen Si’am: Semiahmoo First Nation Exhibit Comes to Museum of Surrey

Surrey, BC – A dynamic new exhibit curated by Semiahmoo First Nation opens October 22 in the Museum of Surrey’s Indigenous Hall. Che’ Semiahmah-Sen, Che’ Shesh Whe Weleq-sen Si’am (I am Semiahmoo, I am Survivor of the Flood) explores the ways that the Nation has flourished since the Great Flood at the end of the last Ice Age.

The exhibit features two large dioramas created by archaeologist Don Welsh, showing the sophisticated technology of reef net fishing and a summer fishing village. Also, on display will be several woven cedar pieces, including a violin case made by Matilda Charles of Semiahmoo First Nation on loan from Museum of Anthropology, video interviews and more. 

“Semiahmoo has and will continue to flourish on our land. We have always been here. We will always be here,” said Chief Harley Chappell.

The Indigenous Hall is a designated space at the museum designed and programmed with consent by Semiahmoo, Katzie and Kwantlen First Nations.

“With respect and gratitude, we acknowledge that the Museum of Surrey is built on the traditional unceded territories of the Semiahmoo, Kwantlen, and Katzie Nations,” said Museum of Surrey Manager, Lynn Saffery. “We are honoured to work and learn on land they have stewarded since time immemorial. We recognize their enduring presence on this ancient land.”

Free pre-registered, one-hour self-guided tours of the museum are available from Wednesday to Saturday. The museum follows all citywide COVID-19 safety protocols.

About Museum of Surrey

Museum of Surrey is a dynamic and accessible community hub and cultural space that reflects the City of Surrey’s innovation and creativity. It is a people museum, with a mission to connect people and stories through engaging events, interactive exhibits, programs, textiles and local, national and international exhibitions, as well as public space for rentals. The site, located at 17710 56A Avenue in Surrey, is also home to Veterans Square, where the Anderson Cabin, 1881 Town Hall and Anniedale School are situated.