Today we hiked about 12 km through the forest visiting areas investigated by previous field school groups.
The first place we visited was a residential area occupied from about 1900-1940. Situated in heavily overgrown forest, the site was littered with artifacts, consisting mainly of broken bottles and ceramics. We were able to spot some remnants of features as well, such as chimney rubble and a water well.
One of the trails we walked down was the primary access route for those living close to the river in the early 1900's. Bob talked about history attached to the trail, and also mentioned he has been in contact with some people who had lived in the area as children at the time, and was able to share some of their memories with us. Bob informed us that there were dozens of houses, cabins, a store, and a cafe in the area in the early 1900's but government began buying or expropriating properties, burning them down, and forbidding access to the area in the 1930's-1940's.
Along the way we were shown tree stumps with springboard notches and what was left of fence posts, and a century old wood bridge. Also, entry ways marked by cedar arches that still stand, and behind them we were able to trek through the shrubbery to look at the remaining concrete foundation belonging to some of the last people to have had their land expropriated.
Continuing on through the overgrowth, Bob led us to a large fireplace that contained concrete, bricks, and rock, which continues to stand tall in the middle of woods. Previous students who have excavated at the site, have discovered a multitude of artifacts surrounding the river banks and left at the bases of trees. One student came upon an old polka record from the 1930's.
Towards the end of our hike we passed by, and through for some, an old water tunnel which was used in the early 1900's for transporting water from Seymour Lake to the Vancouver area. The final site we visited was last used in the 19th/early 20th century as the logging camp field office. Bob pointed out evidence that indicated more recent use as an outdoor marijuana growing operation.
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| The view at a stop along the Seymour River. |
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