Okanagan Historical Society AGM & Hometown Histories Speaker Series Event
VERNON, BC – The Vernon Branch of the Okanagan Historical Society (OHS) invites the public to a meeting and speaker event on Sunday, November 23, 2025.
The afternoon begins with the Branch’s Annual General Meeting from 2:00 to 3:00 pm, reviewing activities, projects, and accomplishments from the past year. Following the AGM, the Hometown Histories Speaker Series, developed in partnership with the Museum and Archives of Vernon (MAV), continues with a presentation by Craig Jones, Constitutional Professor at Thompson Rivers University and historian of interior First Nations governance and constitutional development in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
From 3:00 to 4:00 pm, Jones will present on his research for his forthcoming publication, First Nation: Grand Chief N’Kwala and the Struggle for the Interior Plateau.
N’Kwala, also known as Nicola, served as Grand Chief of the syilx Okanagan Peoples and the fourth Chief of the Pelkamulox Dynasty. He was a key historical figure in the crucial decades between the arrival of the first Europeans and the onset of colonization, as well as a legendary warrior and deft diplomat and leader. Nevertheless, almost no publications have examined his life and contributions, and few residents are aware of the monument erected to him by his people at the Head of Okanagan Lake.
Jones’ research, which draws on journals, letters, and narratives from the earliest fur traders and missionaries, alongside accounts of N’Kwala preserved by Indigenous elders and historians, offers a fresh perspective on Indigenous governance, the origins of modern British Columbia, and long-standing assumptions in Canadian history regarding Indigenous Rights and Title.
“All are welcome to join us, whether you’re a member of the OHS or simply interested in N’Kwala’s fascinating story,” said Gwyneth Evans, Archives Manager of the MAV and Secretary/Treasurer of the OHS. “You are welcome to attend just the AGM, the talk, or both, depending on your interest.”
The event will be held offsite at Okanagan College, in Room D310 (Lecture Theatre, Main Floor, D Building). A campus map with parking information is available online.
Admission is by donation to help cover administrative costs.
Attendees are asked to please RSVP by November 15 to ohsvernonbranch@gmail.com if they wish to attend.
Event Details:
Sunday, November 23, 2025
2:00-4:00 PM
Okanagan College, Room D310 (Lecture Theatre, Main Floor, D Building)
Admission by donation; RSVP by November 15 to ohsvernonbranch@gmail.com
