City of Totems

The City of Duncan is known as the City of Totems.

"The ancient art of totem carving has been handed down through generations as a way of preserving the history of local First Nation heritage as well as honoring tribal rituals and sacred spirits. Traditionally the totems have been a pictorial record of a family's legendary and spiritual ancestry or their wealth and standing in the community. They were also used to guard a family's home, welcome guests, honor the dead and even make fun of enemies or to embarrass a rival. Duncan has made a name for itself as the City of Totems since its Mayor began promoting local First Nation carving back in 1985. Totems in the downtown area were first erected in 1987. " Downtown Duncan Tourism