nisga'a museum

It can be a long drive into the Nass Valley but the scenery, the extensive lava bed and the Nisgaa Museum make it all worthwhile. We had the guided tour of the collection -- useful because it provides background on the culture and traditions of the Nisgaa. I love the fact that contemporary works are being integrated into the collection of artifacts and that the museum is conducting classes for people to learn how to create works. This is a beautiful building and an important collection.

You want to take a guided tour to get the most out of this excellent museum. While the soaring architecture and stunning mountain backdrop of the building itself and the imaginative arrangement of the permanent exhibits will surely grab your attention, it's often the little details and stories behind the displays that prove most worthwhile. This was certainly true for us. Fran Johnson gave a completely unhurried tour of the Ancestors' Collection, providing knowledgeable commentary, frankly answering questions and willingly going beyond information about the exhibits to talk on a personal level about her people. We had the incredible good fortune of being able to time our visit to take in this summer's temporary exhibit of two works by Emily Carr being displayed in the place where they were created/inspired. Again the display was imaginatively done and the mere fact that this small museum was able to bring it off, speaks volumes. Interesting to see what they come up with for next year.Since we visited the museum as a side trip from Terrace (travelling along Hwy 16), we had the added benefit of passing through Lava Bed Provincial Park with stops at the visitor centre and a hiking trail for further insight into the history of the Nisga'a People. The trip in, including stops, took about two hours. We were in no hurry.It takes a little planning to visit the Nisga'a Museum. Options for accommodations, food and services are extremely limited and it's well off the main routes. But if you have even the slightest interest in First Nations culture, especially if you're spending time checking out Ksan and the villages near Hazelton, it's a must do.

This is a great museum in Laxgalts'ap, 45 minutes west on paved highway from New Aiyansh. We were greated by friendly, knowledgable staff and had a fine time. The museum seemed to have more staff than visitors. Very interesting artifacts, but not much is labelled. Use tour to get the most out of this museum.

We spent a great hour wandering the exhibits and just enjoying the 'vibe'. Fabulous displays of masks and regalia.Too bad that the address given is in the wrong city. The Museum is 45 k's west of New Aiyansh.