The Athabasca Valley has been home to Indigenous people for thousands of years.  Many groups travelled through this area hunting and gathering and evidence of their presence has been discovered in many of Jasper’s valleys.

When Europeans first arrived in the area, they relied on Indigenous knowledge to travel through the mountain passes and survive on the harsh landscape.  When Jasper House was established, first near Brule Lake and later near Jasper Lake, many Indigenous groups came to trade and provide the post with supplies.

 Even after fur traders had abandonned the valley, Métis families remained along both sides of the Athabasca River where they established homesteads. Early travellers were able to benefit from their knowledge of the area and often hired them as guides.

When Jasper Forest Park was established in 1907 these families were evicted from the valley and many established themselves in the Hinton and Grand Cache area. Despite losing their Athabasca Valley homes, many maintained ties to the area and continue to have a strong connection to the landscape.

We respectfully acknowledge that Jasper-Yellowhead Historical Society Museum & Archives is located in Treaty 6 and Treaty 8 territories, as well as the traditional territories of the Beaver, Cree, Ojibway, Secwépemc, Stoney, Métis and others. We honour and thank the people of these territories.