Haida Gwaii Episode 8: The Echo of Poles and the Spirit of Skung Gwaii

In this episode, we talk about one of the most remote and evocative places in Haida Gwaii—Skung Gwaii, or Red Cod Town. Host Norm visits this UNESCO World Heritage Site to meet with Watchman Teresa Russ, whose personal story and cultural insights bring rare depth to this destination. Raised in the ancestral village of Tanu, Teresa has lived the Haida traditions since birth, from cedar harvesting to art and food gathering. Her upbringing fuels her role today as a cultural guide and protector of Skung Gwaii’s memory. Visit https://farandawayadventures.com to plan your expedition into the heart of Haida heritage. Discover more at Far and Away Adventures.com.

Listeners will hear how this hauntingly beautiful village, once full of longhouses and mortuary poles, now rests in deep silence—but not stillness. Teresa explains how cedar poles weather back into the earth, how nature reveals hidden histories, and how each visit is a sacred act of witnessing. You'll also learn the story of how this site came under UNESCO protection after the South Moresby stand and how it represents the Haida people's message to the world: “We are still here.”

Skung Gwaii is not just a visit—it’s a pilgrimage. And Teresa’s reflections on Haida values, resilience, and the emotional reactions of visitors offer a deeper way to experience this space. Whether you’re a traveler, history buff, or seeker of truth, this episode invites you to explore Skung Gwaii through eyes that see not only what is, but what once was—and what still lives on.

Start your adventure at https://farandawayadventures.com