Recording Their Story: James Teit and the Tahltan

by Judy Thompson

Recording Their Story describes the life of James Teit, one of Canada's earliest ethnographers, and his work among the Tahltan people of northern British Columbia almost a century ago. Teit's work collecting artifacts, taking photographs, recording songs, transcribing myths and gathering information about social organization, ceremonial life, customs and beliefs, has proved invaluable. Today, this collection is the most important extant assemblage of the Tahltan's heritage.

Genres: Language, Indigenous

208 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Ellie O'Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of data, wrapped around the inspiring story of Shetland immigrant to Spences Bridge, BC, James Teit, early in the 20th century. A farmer, big game hunter and guide, he came naturally to the (newish) discipline of cultural anthropology and the role of field ethnologist. He befriended, and ended up advocate for, the Interior Salish and Tahltan, and all of BC's First Nations over treaty rights.

I've also read Wendy Wickwire's At the Bridge: James Teit and an Anthropology of Belonging. They complement each other, but Thompson's book has the deluxe coffee table layout with beautiful plates, and Teit's portraits of his BC friends and informants.

[Clivemichael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Impressive collection of material by an equally impressive man.