40 Unmarked Graves Found Around Former Residential School In Sechelt

A B-C First Nation says ground penetrating radar has revealed 40 unmarked graves on the lands of the former St. Augustine’sesidential School.

Shishalh First Nation Chief Lenora Joe made the announcement yesterday, saying it listened to elders and survivors of the residential school, and stories shared of missing children have been confirmed.

"Each time results are shared, the number of children’s remains found grows," Joe said.

The St. Augustine’s operated from 1904 to 1975. 

The nation said the land where St. Augustine’s operated is in the middle of the municipality of Sechelt, so it has been disturbed and developed.

Chief Joe says children from dozens of Nations were sent there and they had already confirmed that many had gone missing.

She says they conducted the search “to show the little ones that they haven't been forgotten.”

Depending solely on ground-penetrating radar for data would be inaccurate and inconclusive, it said.

“We know there are more lost children, the researchers are telling us there are more. This is heartbreaking,” said Joe.

"If you would like to offer support, please wear an orange shirt, fly your flags at half-mast and cherish moments with your children and your families," she said.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has said parents withdrew their children in 1923 from St. Augustine's to protest poor education, harsh discipline, and inadequate diet.

It said officials responded by appointing a new principal and increasing school funding.

Residential school survivors and their relatives suffering trauma invoked by the recall of past abuse can access the National Residential School Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419.