Our Heritage & History

"Tsiigehtchic" translates to "mouth of the iron river" in the Gwich’in language.

Traditional Roots

Long before permanent structures were built, the site at the confluence of the Arctic Red and Mackenzie Rivers was a vital, traditional Gwich’in summer fishing camp—a historical place of gathering, connection, and trade.

1868
The Catholic Mission

The permanent community began to take shape with the construction of a Catholic Mission at the traditional fish camp site.

1870
The Trading Post

The Hudson’s Bay Company established a trading post here, cementing it as a hub for local commerce.

1940
A Quiet Settlement

Growth was gradual. By 1940, there were still only three permanent families permanently residing at the site.

1970
The Dempster Highway

The construction of the Dempster Highway brought vital wage employment and infrastructure to the area. The population grew, and a ferry service was established to safely carry summer traffic across the Mackenzie and Arctic Red Rivers.

Today

The Gwichya Gwich’in Band Council continues to play a vital role in the cultural and social life of Tsiigehtchic, ensuring the preservation and active transmission of traditional knowledge, language, and land practices to the next generation.

TRAVEL/KHAIHTAK NAHTR'ADADAL
WELCOME/SHOH IINLII AANAII
ARCTIC RED RIVER TSII GEH TSHIK
TRADE NILITROKAT
NAGWICHOONJIK
ARCTIC RED RIVER
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