Squamish Stories

Northern Howe Sound Visit by Spanish Explorers?

According to Squamish oral tradition, a European schooner visited norther Howe Sound before Captain Vancouver arrived in June 1792. It is remembered also in a place name - Whal-wha-laytem (or Xwixelitn). Could this account refer to a Spanish vessel which is known to have explored nearby waters during July 1791.

Differing northern How Sound visit accounts - Vancouver ...and Spanish?

According to their expedition records, two longboaats piloted by Capt. George Vancouver and Lt. Peter Puget (and not a schooner) arrived at the head of How Sound on June 14th, 1792. It is generally believed their overnight camp was at Darrell Bay (not Whal-wha-layten), and it seems clear their encounter with Squamish people took place at the camp (and not on the water).

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