In this episode, we talk about the ancestral village of K’una, also known as Skedans—a place once vibrant with more than two dozen longhouses and bustling with trade, ceremonies, and daily life. Located on a grassy rise above the shoreline, this Haida village is rich in history, spirituality, and artistic legacy. Host Norm speaks with Melanie, a Haida Watchman who shares what makes Skedans so special, not just as a physical site, but as a living cultural memory passed through generations. Visit https://farandawayadventures.com to plan your expedition into the heart of Haida heritage. Discover more at Far and Away Adventures.com.

Melanie reveals how Skedans, close to modern settlements yet deeply rooted in tradition, was a trading hub known for its frequent potlatches and ceremonial gatherings. Through her eyes, we learn how the mortuary poles—some still standing, others returning naturally to the earth—tell stories of the people who once lived and thrived here. She emphasizes that these poles were never meant to be preserved or relocated to museums, but to complete their natural life cycles on the land where they were raised.

Families visiting Skedans are encouraged to see beyond the monuments and immerse themselves in the emotional landscape of the site. Melanie describes how each village has its own spirit—Skedans with its joyful, lighthearted feel, in contrast to others with more solemn atmospheres. She recommends visiting the Haida Heritage Centre before and after exploring the village sites, to deepen understanding and round out the experience. This episode is a beautiful invitation to connect across time, family, and place, and to help your children witness a culture that is still alive and evolving.

To experience Skedans for yourself, visit https://farandawayadventures.com.