Aerial View of Yuquot
Yuquot. It is the centre of the world. In the Mowachaht/Muchalaht language it means “where the wind blows from all directions.” It acknowledges the central place given us by the Creator.
In winter the southeast winds are so strong we wonder why the rocks on the beach don’t blow away. The west wind in spring brings news of the sea and the arrival of the herrings and whales. In summer the wind comes from the southwest along the shores of Vancouver Island, warming our land. In fall the winds bring the first storms and heavy rains, calling the salmon back to our rivers to feed our people. The last wind comes from the north, twisting over the land, bring the scent and spirit of cedar, fir and yew, of the mountains, streams, rivers and lakes that sustain us all.
Totem at Yuquot returning to nature
To outsiders, Yuquot might seem to be at the edge of the world. For us, it is the centre. It is a place of unsurpassed beauty and natural wonders we want you all to witness. You will feel its power. All visitors do. You might share a beach with whales rubbing along pebbles in the surges of surf. You can stare out to the west and feel winds that have crossed the open ocean. Ponder on more than 5,000 years of our history at this very place. Experience nature’s harmonies. Absorb our ancestors’ core values.
Hisukʔis cawaak = Everything is one
ʔiisaak = Respect with caring
ʔuuʔaaluk = Taking care of
Yuquot was the first place in western Canada commemorated as a National Historic Site.