Joe Capilano

Joe Capilano (c. 1854–1910), also known as Capiano Joe, was a leader of the Squamish from 1895-1910, who called him ''Sa7plek'' (Sahp-luk). He fought for the recognition of native rights and lifestyle.

He spent his youth fishing and hunting and was famous for fighting against the wildly invading Lekwiltok warriors from the Kwakwaka'wakw Territory. He went to work in the sawmill at Moodyville, a pioneer settlement in what is now the Lower Lonsdale area of the city of North Vancouver.

In 1906 he, along with Cowichan Chief Charley Isipaymilt and Secwepemc Chief Basil David, traveled to Ottawa, then after that London, to meet with King of Canada Edward VII to speak of the need to settle land claims in British Columbia. The Chief also asked for the ban against potlatches to be lifted. Joe Capilano died of tuberculosis in 1910. Provided by Wikipedia