Abstract

This paper examines the important role that the Dundas Islands played in the context of the northern coast of British Columbia. For hunter-fisher-gatherers living in this region salmon and eulachon represented both dietary staples and highly valued trade commodities. There is a volatile history of conflict on the northern coast that may be related to efforts to control the abundant Nass and Skeena River fisheries where these resources were procured. Furthermore, the settlement choices of the region's inhabitants reflect a similar endeavor. Though they are a marginal resource area, intensive settlements were maintained on the Dundas Islands. The strategic location of the islands along transportation routes to both rivers provided a means to both defend and control access to the fisheries.