Originally published in Moccasin Telegraph, November 5, 2010

View article online: http://www.moctel.org/2010/MT323.html

by Donna Clayson

Angela Sidney, 1902 - 1991
Ch’óoneté Má Stóow

Respected and much loved Tagish Elder of the Delsheetaan Nation, Mrs. Angela Sidney co-authored three important historical documents: “My Stories are My Wealth” and “Tagish Tiaagu”, written narratives of traditional Tagish legends and a document of Tagish Place Names for southern Yukon. Co-founder of the Yukon International Storytelling Festival, Mrs. Sidney spent her entire life working for her community to ensure that her people’s traditions, language, dances and stories were passed on to the next generation. For these endeavours she received the Order of Canada in 1984. Her own words illustrate the beauty and humility of such a generous and noble woman: “I have no money to leave for my grandchildren. My stories are my wealth!”

Angela Sidney Bust Donated by the Hougen Family , June 1997 Sculpted by Chuck Buchanan Located in Whiskey Flats Photo courtesy Rolf Hougen

Angela Sidney, the last person who spoke Tagish, was a feature of a book and was herself a great story teller. Photo courtesy Rolf Hougen

View article online: http://www.moctel.org/2010/MT323.html