Once Upon This Land: Archaeology in British Columbia and the Stories it Tells

Review By Sean P. Connaughton

February 26, 2026

Purich Books, an imprint of UBC Press, has distinguished itself in 2025 by presenting a range of books that complement each other by engaging with the intertwined topics of Indigenous history, anti-colonial and anti-capital approaches, contemporary politics, and archaeology and heritage. Among these are Unceded by George M. Abbott and Unearthing Forgotten Values by yours truly. Such publications contribute to an informed, democratic society.

In their latest release, Once Upon This Land, archaeologist Bob Muckle takes the reader on an archaeological journey throughout British Columbia. The book provides an accessible overview of the archaeological research currently undertaken in this province, explaining what archaeology is (and what it isn’t) and what archaeologists do (and don’t do). Through his exploration of BC archaeology, Muckle advocates for First Nations as stewards of their own heritage, broadening the reader’s understanding of human history and the importance of archaeology to descendant communities today.

Once Upon This Land is brief by design, comprising five chapters inclusive of a foreword and introduction, along with an epilogue, glossary, and suggested further readings. Each does a good job of encapsulating what archaeologists do fundamentally—that is, tell stories by reconstructing the past—and illuminating the genius of ancestral peoples. In particular, Chapter 5 provides an excellent contextualization of contemporary archaeological practice in BC as it intersects with legislation, First Nations’ interests and research, and the wider “culture of archaeology”. The epilogue is critically important, especially for novices, as it concisely summarizes the value of archaeology and First Nations history in BC. Moreover, the glossary and further readings are helpful for those eager to learn more on their own.

The book’s central themes of change, diversity, sustainability, and resilience spread across all five chapters are demonstrated in multiple “spotlights” throughout the book. The spotlights are employed effectively, enhancing the accessibility of the book by providing specifics on archaeological sites or key concepts within the discipline while also adding structure, visual interest, and welcome reprieves into archaeological nerdery. Examples include illustrations of lithics, useful explanations and definitions (e.g., Cultural Resource Management archaeology, Indigenous Rights, Ground Penetrating Radar), and deeper dives into important archaeological sites such as c̓əsnaʔəm (Vancouver) and SGang Gwaay (Haida Gwaii). Throughout, this book reveals the many passionate individuals engaged in BC archaeology—whether academics, professionals, Indigenous archaeologists, or Museum staff—and how they all contribute to constructing narratives of ancestral lifeways.

Among the many successful aspects of this book, the powerful foreword by Karen Rose Thomas stands out. Thomas situates herself and her connection to the lands, waters, and her communities across the lower mainland of Vancouver. By sharing her perspective and experiences as an Indigenous woman archaeologist in BC, including personal stories about working alongside her late aunt and her graduate research, her words offer readers poignant and timely insights into the vulnerability around heritage. Thomas champions this book because it compels the reader to act with a good heart and mind, to be a good neighbor by learning about DRIPA (Bill 41), and to find ways to reconcile daily with colonial oppression rather than continue the wave of hate through ignorance. Her message is clear: when it comes to Indigenous heritage and issues in this province, we are all accountable.

I really enjoyed Karen’s voice. In fact, that it is limited to the forward is my only real quibble with this book—a co-authored volume by both Muckle and Thomas would have been superb. I believe Once Upon This Land should be on every BC resident’s bookshelf. It is accessible, charmingly written, and will satisfy those seeking to understand how archaeology transpires in this province.