This photograph, held by the BC archives, is noted as being a "Quatsino Village" and was reportedly taken circa 1866. This would make this one of the earliest photographs taken on the North Island. First Nations people, their villages, artwork and regalia were the subject matter of many early photographs taken on the North Island. Many became postcards depicting traditional west coast lifestyles. In the mid 1800s many First Nations still lived a lifestyle where they traveled seasonally to different villages. This confused the Europeans who would consider a village abandoned if they came upon it in a season during which the settlement was not utilized.
"Quatsino Village" circa 1866. BC Archives A-00939
*footnote: The Bill Reid Centre at SFU has noted that this photo has the following caption: "The village of Ma-ate with people assembled and Superintendent Powell and Commander Orlebar standing on the beach. Photo by O.C. Hastings, July 27, 1879." After some sleuthing work, however, they identify the village as being that of Ow-i-ye-kum at Forward Inlet.
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