A protector of First Nation heritage opens

WEST KELOWNA – The new Westbank First Nation Sncewips Heritage Museum opens to the public on Monday, but the ceremonial opening happened Saturday.

The museum in Estates Square off Old Okanagan Highway is a fully recognized museum with a new Okanagan name, Sncewips, which means a building or house image of multiple colours – a protector of First Nation heritage.

The new museum will share the stories of the first people of the valley with a wide array of educational programming with permanent and rotating exhibits.

The displays will include some of the WFN’s collection of archaeological artifacts, along with historical and contemporary art. It will also include the First Nation’s archives.

The mission of the museum is to inspire, education and transform according to a media release. It is dedicated to the collection, preservation, restoration and interpretation of art and artifacts that reflect the heritage and natural history of the Okanagan people.

As of June 16, the museum will be open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on select holiday.