About the Museum
Take a step back into history to learn and understand the deep history of the Syilx people at the Sncewips Heritage Museum. Originally acting as a repository after Westbank First Nation achieved self governance in 2005, the museum underwent a transformation and opened its doors to the public in 2014. This beautiful space provides a safe and protected space for Syilx culture and heritage. The museum allows the public to experience the histories, collections, and stories of the Syilx people through a Syilx perspective. This is a highly educational and humbling experience that we encourage to both locals and visitors.
The Westbank First Nation has put effort into creating laws, policies, and procedures for managing and preserving their heritage museum and the entirety of the Okanagan Nation. They have a team of trained professionals who focus on collecting, preserving, restoring, and interpreting collections of archives, art, and artifacts. Being a professional heritage organization, they are dedicated to repatriating Syilx artifacts held by other museums.
Tours
Visiting the Sncewips Heritage Museum is a great way to gain an understanding and awareness of the Syilx nation. There are three tour types, each designed to educate and display the beauty of the culture through stories, artifacts, structures, and art. Taking place both indoor and outdoors, you will have the opportunity to learn how integral the various forms of life in nature are.
Museum & Zoom Tour
The museum and virtual tours are held in the gallery, either in-person or online, allowing visitors to view and understand a range of artifacts and cultural traditions, some of which are still actively practiced by the Syilx people. During the tour, you will gain insight into the land, traditional tools and homes, cultural practices, storytelling, the effects of colonization, the Westbank First Nations’ self-governance, and more.
Pricing: Virtual Tours (for up to 100 devices): $150.00 per group, In-Person Tours (for up to 50 individuals): $15.00 per person
Community Tour
The Community Core Tour is a full outdoor experience led by a guide who will educate you on the significance of each structure. The tour also includes information about programs offered by the Westbank First Nation, the Four Food Chiefs, the significance of family and community, the role of sports in the Okanagan, traditional practices, storytelling, and more.
Pricing: For groups of up to 20 individuals: $20.00 per person
Land Tour
The Land Tour focuses on the significance of plant life and the traditional use of the land. It takes place on well-maintained local walking trails and provides a rare and informative experience. The Land Tour is separate from the Sncewips Heritage Museum and is led by Krystal Withakay. To book this tour, email spaxwawlm@telus.net.