Lhálh ets'áy'chexw
Preserving the voices, hands, and wisdom of the Coast Salish peoples by documenting traditional knowledge, cultural practices, and historical narratives.
A Living Repository of Coast Salish Heritage
The Salish Sea Indigenous Archive is an educational resource that documents the rich cultural heritage of the Coast Salish peoples, who have stewarded the lands and waters of the Pacific Northwest for thousands of years.
Our collections include traditional ecological knowledge, artistic traditions, governance systems, and language preservation, all curated with Coast Salish communities and elders.
Learn More About Our Mission
Our Core Collections
Explore four pillars of Coast Salish cultural knowledge in our archive
Longhouse Architecture
Documentation of traditional post-and-beam construction, spatial organization, and the spiritual meaning of Coast Salish architectural forms.
Explore Architecture
Weaving Traditions
Records of textile arts, including cedar bark processing, mountain goat wool preparation, and the symbolism in traditional patterns.
View Textiles
Traditional Ecology
Documentation of sophisticated resource management systems, reef net fishing technology, and the integration of salmon cycles into cultural practices.
Learn Ecology
Potlatch & Governance
Historical records of traditional governance systems, ceremonial practices, and the social and legal significance of the Potlatch in Coast Salish society.
Discover PotlatchCommunity Impact
Voices from educators, researchers, and community members
"As a teacher in the North Vancouver School District, this archive has been invaluable for developing accurate, respectful curriculum materials. The primary sources are transformative."
"Finding my great-grandfather's voice on one of the oral history recordings was a profound moment for my family. This work is healing and essential for cultural continuity."
"The linguistic materials have been crucial for our language revitalization efforts. The quality of documentation and community collaboration is exceptional."
Featured Resources
Recently added materials and highlighted collections
Interactive Spindle Whorl Gallery
Explore the intricate geometric patterns and symbolic meanings of traditional spindle whorls used in Coast Salish textile production.
Reef Net Technology Documentation
Comprehensive documentation of the unique sustainable fishing methods developed by the Straits Salish peoples.
Potlatch Historical Timeline
Interactive timeline exploring the social and legal history of the Potlatch from pre-contact times to contemporary practice.
Support Cultural Preservation
Join us in preserving and sharing the rich heritage of the Coast Salish peoples for future generations through education, research, and community collaboration.