On March 23, 2002, Al Charles and his team of carvers arrived in Victoria to begin the carving of the Urban Tribal Canoe
On this date the log was blessed and songs were performed to celebrate the transformation about to take place.
The log, which was donated by Interfor Forest Products, had been located at Royal Roads University since it's arrival last June.
Over the following days, Al and his cousin Darrell transformed the 43 foot long log, into the rough shape of the Tribal Canoe.
Once this rough shaping was complete, the log was moved on to the Songhees Reserve for it's final work.
A program was implemented to include up to 20 Urban Youth. The Youth were clients of Hulitan Social Services Society and also youth from the Victoria Native Friendship Center.
These youth participated in the final work on the canoe. They were also involved in carving paddles for the canoe journey. The goal was to have the canoe completed by the beginning of May to allow for training for the Tribal Journey.
Al Charles is a Master Carver from the United States.
We would like to thank Chief Andy Thomas, Chief Gary Albany, and Frank Nelson, for their assistance and support.
