Discover the captivating history of the Tr’ondëk-Klondike, a cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the historic impact between Indigenous communities and colonial settlers during the late 19th century gold rush. Featuring archaeological and historical evidence of Indigenous culture and heritage, along side colonial structures and settlement patterns, this site illustrates a pivotal period when colonial influence grew rapidly in the Yukon Territory. From the establishment of Fort Reliance in 1874 to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1896-1898 and the subsequent consolidation of colonial authority by 1908, it’s a unique and valuable part of history

The eight sites of the Tr’ondëk-Klondike collectively total 334 hectares of land and encompass component sites along parts of the Yukon River and Blackstone River in Canada’s northwest. The Tr’ondëk-Klondike is a living cultural landscape that tells the story of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nations people and thousands of hopeful prospectors rushing north in a feverish hunt for their fortune in gold.

Within this region’s rugged subarctic environment, you’ll find a diverse array of heritage sites. These include Indigenous sites such as the Tr’ochëk Fishing Camp, Jëjik Dhä Dënezhu Kek’it (Moosehide Village), Ch’ëdähdëk (Forty Mile), and the historic streetscapes and buildings of Dawson City, along with the mining infrastructure that has shaped the Klondike region for over a century.

Today, the cultural landscape reflects the enduring resilience of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in and their connection to the land, alongside present day mining and the significant impact of 19th century colonialism. It’s a place where traditional Indigenous culture coexists with the legacy of the gold rush, forming a unique blend of history and modern life.

This rich history is not only evident in the physical landscape of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Territory and Klondike region but also in the literature, photography, and stories that have been passed down by the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in who have called this land their home for thousands of years.

Tr’ondëk-Klondike is a testament to the lasting impact of 19th-century colonial expanse that continues to shape the region and its people 120 years later.

The impact of the Gold Rush and its legacy are evident not only in the physical artifacts but also in literature, photography, and the stories of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in. This site is a remarkable example of a 19th-century gold rush that continues to shape the region and its people after 120 years.