Media release

BRIDGE RENAMED TO HONOUR FIRST NATIONS LEADER

LYTTON – The Thompson River bridge near Lytton will be renamed in honour of the great Lytton First Nations chief and peacemaker David Spintlum (Cexpe’nthlEm), Premier Gordon Campbell announced today. The Premier was joined by Lytton First Nations chief Byron Spinks and Village of Lytton mayor Chris O’Connor to announce the new bridge name. “In renaming this bridge, we pay tribute to an important First Nations leader, respected by Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples alike; someone whose wisdom and good counsel helped shape our province,” said Premier Campbell. “This year marks the both the 150th anniversary of our province and the 150th anniversary of when Chief Spintlum helped forge a new peace in this region. Today, his wisdom continues to resonate with us, reminding us that together we can face any challenge, as long as we do it in a spirit of mutual respect, recognition and reconciliation.” “Chief David Spintlum was a beloved First Nations leader, revered by all peoples as a firm, but fair man who worked hard to advance the well-being of his people,” said Chief Spinks. “Re-naming this bridge in his honour is a tribute to him and everyone who has worked to increase good will and understanding among all British Columbians.” “On behalf of the people of the Village of Lytton I want to say how excited we all are by the decision to honour a First Nations leader of such enormous distinction, “said Mayor O’Connor.” The Chief David Spintlum Bridge will help bridge the divide that too often exists between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, and for that the citizens of Lytton are enormously grateful.”Chief David Spintlum was a respected hereditary leader and chief of the Thompson Indians (Lytton First Nations). His mother was of Lillooet and Shuswap ancestry. In the 1850s, Spintlum decided to pursue peace with many of his former enemies, including the Lillooets. His greatest act of peacemaking was in 1858, when he averted a war between the Thompson tribes and white gold miners through his great skills of negotiation. Spintlum died in 1887 at the age of 76. His descendants still live in Lytton and the surrounding area. The bridge which now bears his name is just outside of Lytton on Highway 12, and is within sight of Spintlum’s gravesite and memorial cross. The Village of Lytton and the Lytton First Nations are considering establishing a park at the gravesite in his honour.