Our history
At one time the Secwépemc people occupied one large Traditional territory covering approximately 145,000 square kilometers. In 1811, after European contact, the colonial government divided the Secwépemc people into 17 distinct groups with specific parcels of land designated to each.
The Kamloops Reserve land base was established in 1862 under the direction of Governor James Douglas. It is located east of the North Thompson River and north of the South Thompson River, adjacent to the City of Kamloops.
The word Kamloops is the English translation of the Shuswap word Tk̓emlúps, meaning ‘where the rivers meet,’ and for centuries has been the home of the Tk̓emlúpsemc, ‘people of the confluence.’
Tk̓emlúps has always occupied a place of great economic importance in our region. Traversed by two major waterways, traditional Tk̓emlúpsemc territory was the center of major traffic and trade routes. Due to our community’s great economic and military strength, as well as our ancestor’s pivotal role in the creation of peace accords, the Tk̓emlúpsemc were designated the Secwépemc7uwi,‘ the real Shuswap’.
Our Story
Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS) is a progressive community committed to attaining self-sufficiency and independence through education and economic development. The Band currently has approximately 1,500 members living on and off its 33,000-acre (130 km2) reserve. The reserve supports a variety of uses including residential, industrial, commercial and agricultural. In 1999, the TIB purchased Harper Ranch, now known as Spiyu7ullucw Ranch Corporation, which added 20,000 acres of fee simple land and crown leases for resource development and other economic opportunities.
The Band has strengthened its community with childcare, education and health care facilities as well as other initiatives and infrastructure. They have created over 200 direct jobs, generated $200 million in regional economic activity, and pioneered the development of Indian property taxation authority.
We will always be here.
Stay Connected!
Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc is committed to keeping our membership informed and connected. Explore our digital platforms, including social media channels, the weekly Community Bulletin, our custom communication app, and text service - all designed to help you stay engaged with community news, events, and updates.
