The Lhtako Dene Nation has assumed operation of several key historic businesses within Barkerville Provincial Park, including Mason & Daly General Merchants and C. Strouss Drygoods. This significant transition marks the end of a 45-year era for the Rummel family, who operated these businesses with a focus on historical interpretation.
The Barkerville Heritage Trust supported the transfer, viewing it as a pivotal step in reconciliation and recognizing the deep Indigenous history of the region. Rocky Nenka will manage operations, ensuring continuity with existing staff, while Chief Clifford Lebrun highlighted opportunities for job creation and the telling of a more complete Cariboo history, one that centers Indigenous economic participation and cultural presence.
