In July 1923, after a decade of petitions and resolutions sent to the Department of Indian Affairs and a series of amalgamation meetings beginning in 1922, 16 Sḵwx̱wú7mesh villages united to form one political body, known today as Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation).
The commemorative photo above was taken on July 23, 1923 outside of the Department of Indian Affairs building in Vancouver, and shows the more than 40 chiefs and delegates who gathered to request amalgamation.
July 23 is celebrated annually by Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw as Amalgamation Day, and 2023 marks its centenary celebration.
Visit the MONOVA website for more information about the history of the North Shore and to plan your visit to MONOVA: Museum of North Vancouver, now open at 115 West Esplanade in The Shipyards.
Currently, MONOVA: Archives of North Vancouver, at 3203 Institute Road in Lynn Valley, is open by appointment only. Contact: [email protected]
Navigate culture on the North Shore by using the North Shore Culture Compass.
