Project Summary

During the summer of 2002, The Kitikmeot Heritage Society (KHS) will begin its third year of oral history recording at Iqaluktuuq. The recording will occur in conjunction with the archaeological work of Dr. Max Friesen, University of Toronto. The KHS will work with the Elders and a co-researcher to record the oral traditions of the Elders during an approximately five day period at the Iqaluktuuq site. This information will be used to construct the history and prehistory of the Inuit who used the Iqaluktuuq site. It will also give us a very detailed glimpse into the lives of the Copper Inuit, whose culture until now, has been poorly documented.

Students will be hired to work with the Elders and researchers. This will give the students the opportunity to take part in an Inuinnaqtun language immersion experience and will allow them to learn traditional skills. Students will also see how Inuit traditional knowledge can be married with modern scientific archaeology to produce richer and more accurate research results. This part of the project allows students to take part in a true Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit experience.

Project Goal

To research, reconstruct and preserve the history and prehistory of the Ikaluktuurmiut.

Objectives

  1. To set up a field research camp on Ferguson Lake adjacent to the mouth of the Ekalluk River.
  2. To record the recollections, stories, legends and traditional knowledge of the Elders and other participants involved using digital videotape and/or audiotape and carefully written notes.
  3. To record traditional place names, using topographical maps.
  4. To enhance the archaeological research by combining it with the oral history and traditional knowledge of the Elders.
  5. To visit archaeological features and significant sites and to record Elders’ observations in regard to these sites.
  6. To chronicle the fieldwork using a 35mm camera and digital video camera.
  7. To provide Cambridge Bay youth with job experience.
  8. To create a language immersion experience for all participants.

Outcomes

  1. Elder’s oral histories will be preserved in perpetuity.
  2. Elder’s recollections and knowledge of the area will enhance and enrich the information being gathered by the archaeologists.
  3. Participants’ fluency in Inuinnaqtun will be improved.
  4. Youth will have increased respect and awareness for the Elders and for traditional knowledge.
  5. Inuit culture will be promoted.
  6. Materials developed will be used to promote and encourage the use of Inuinnaqtun.
  7. Teaching materials in Inuinnaqtun will be developed for the elementary schools, the high schools and communities of the Kitikmeot Region.