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VOL. 18 NO. 2 APRIL1999 THE WEST^VAfi^ HISTORICAL SOCIETY R MUNICIPAL HALLS: OLD & NEW A Short History of Treaties in FEATURE PRESENTATION Scholars suggest that, prior to European contact, over 300,000 people lived in communities throughout British Columbia. In the mid-nineteenth century the colonial government, under the guidance of Governor James Douglas, signed treaties with several aboriginal groups on Vancouver Island. With the exception of these original Douglas treaties, however, no other treaties were signed. As the Nisga’a Treaty nears conclusion, many of us find that we have questions about the process which we would like to have answered. At our next meeting, you will have an opportunity to ask your questions. Come and hear Treaty Information Officer, Michele Dimock, as she speaks about the history of the treaty process in British Columbia. For the past two years Michele has worked with the Tripartite Public Education Committee for B.C. Treaty Negotiations, and has travelled all over the province speaking to local service groups, non-profit organizations like ours, and Chambers of Commerce, about treaties and the effect they will have on the lives of all British Columbians. In her presentation, she will explain the historical background and illustrate why we are negotiating treaties today. With her experience speaking with British Columbians across the province, Michele has a unique perspective and is eager to share her knowledge with us all. Join us for a relaxed, friendly evening, as, together, we learn more about the contemporary treaty process and its historical roots. MUSEUM & ARCHIVES FILES (See page 2) The Annual General Meeting Will be held on Wednesday April 28th, 1999, at 7:00 pm in the Activity Room of the West Vancouver Seniors' Activity Centre, 685-21 St Street (parking off Fulton Avenue, between 21st and 22nd Streets). All Visitors are Weicome Whafs Inside: iti' i'.p^ ‘ President's Report: ____ City Halls -old & new^...........2 Special Heritage Award................ 4 AGM & Membership Details................5 And This is the Way it Was............7 Museum Calendar - Special Trips.........8