Unique Petroglyph at Robertson Point
Located at Robertson Point on the Metlakatla First Nation Reserve near Prince Rupert, British Columbia, there exists a cast of a distinctive petroglyph, known as “The Man Who Fell from Heaven.” Unlike most petroglyphs, this rock carving comes with a fascinating narrative. Archaeologists recorded the story in 1936 at the archaeological site GbTo-39. The petroglyph has also been named “Man who fell through a hole in the sky”.
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The Legends Behind the Carving
Several stories circulate about the origin of this petroglyph. One tale from the Tsimshian Indians recounts an important man who claimed he would ascend to the sky to astonish his people. After disappearing for several days, he returned, unable to sustain his absence due to lack of food. He claimed to have fallen through the sky and showed the petroglyph as proof of where he landed. In reality, he had carved the figure himself while in hiding.
Another version suggests the petroglyph marks the spot where a drowned Indian’s body was found. This story was shared by Harlan I. Smith, a Dominion archaeologist, who learned of it during his visit in the mid-1920s. He was told by a resident from Hazelton about the tragic origin of the carving.
Cultural Significance and Interpretations
Petroglyphs along the rugged coast of British Columbia, including this one, often served various purposes. They marked boundaries, denoted ownership, or narrated stories. Most petroglyphs in the Northwest Coast feature faces dominated by prominently depicted eyes, frequently with one eye differing from the other.
“The Man Who Fell from Heaven” is a six-foot-long figure with a circular head, straight long arms, and rather short legs. Carved long ago with stone tools, it commemorates an important event, with multiple interpretations offered by local stories.
Mythological Dimensions
A third narrative involves the mythological figure Raven, or Wegets, known to the Tsimshians. According to this legend, Wegets and his brother, born from unions between mortal brothers and spirit sisters, were expelled from the spirit world. Wegets’ brother tragically sank into a bed of seaweed upon landing on Earth. Learning from his brother’s fate, Wegets landed on a rock, embedding himself firmly. He was eventually freed by a land otter and traveled up the Skeena River, spreading human arts.
Enduring Mystery and Cultural Heritage
Despite being submerged by ocean tides twice daily, the outline of “The Man” remains visible under a large tree on a solitary point in one of Metlakatla Pass’s small coves. This petroglyph continues to intrigue and spark speculation among those who view it or hear its stories. It stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry and storytelling tradition of the First Nations people in the region.
Sources:
“The Man Who Fell From Heaven” by Phyllis Bowman
The Man Who Fell from Heaven – Compiled by Grant Keddie
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