Our Story
As part of a vision for economic development and self determination of the ʕaḥuusʔatḥ, the property was bought by the ʕaḥuusʔatḥ Haw’ił (Ahousaht Hereditary Chiefs) through Maaqtusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society in 2022.
Many people from the Ahousaht community have poured their hearts into this property in order to welcome guests and show them true Ahousaht hospitality. Through sharing cultural practices, we are the primer venue for people from all walks of life to experience authentic Nuu-Chah-nulth culture.
Before Us
A Thousand Year Old Respect
The Nuu-Chah-nulth people have lived in harmony here for thousands of years.
We are but a blip on the timeline of Clayoquot Sound’s history.
Traditionally, Ahousaht was a fishing village with a primary focus on salmon fishing. Using handmade dugout canoes, they travelled along the west coast and beyond. Through the practice of potlatch, communities would gather for celebration and the sharing of resources regularly. Ahousaht is also known for stunning woodworks such as canoes and longhouses, both of which you can find on our property today.
Early Years
Back in the 1920’s, the Darville family moved from Seattle to Quait Bay (then called Calm Creek) to build and operate a combination steam and water powered sawmill. They produced made-to-order lumber and fishing boats, and after a decade at the mill, John Darville moved to Tofino to further his boat building business. He leased the mill to another enterprising family, but the mill burned down during his absence, in the 1930’s. The rainforest reclaimed the land; moss, plant, and tree life slowly overtook most signs of settlement. You can still see relics of the mill here and there: glimmers from the not too distant past.
Temperate Rainforest
The temperate old-growth rainforest found on Vancouver Island is among the rarest ecosystems on the planet, covering less than 1% of the Earth’s surface. We are lucky to have such a pristine environment at our doorstep, and one so vital to the health of the Earth’s ecosystem.
Clayoquot Sound harbors many diverse plant and animal species, and the massive trees store carbon and clean the air. The refuge of this colossal canopy is vital to the community––animal and human alike. We intend to keep it this way: replicating the Nuu-Chah-nulth ideal of taking only what’s needed and always striving for leadership in land and wildlife preservation.