Enderby is looking to the future by connecting to its past.
A logo inspired by an aboriginal pictograph could become a symbol for the entire community.
“We think it’s excellent and the Splatsin First Nation likes it,” said Mayor Howie Cyr.
The proposed logo includes an individual holding two fish next to the river. The wording says, “Enderby and District: Where the Shuswap meets the Okanagan.”
The logo could be used on signs, letterhead and business cards as well as other promotional material.
“It’s unique and catchy and represents the community well,” said Cyr.
“When people see that image, they will think of Enderby, the Splatsin and the rural area.”
The pictograph displayed in the logo was found on kekulis, or winter houses, located on the island in the Shuswap River.
The concept was presented to the Enderby Vitalization Committee by the Splatsin First Nation.
Darren Robinson, with the vitalization committee, believes it’s important to have a brand that visibly portrays the entire community’s cultural strength.
“We have amazing people, amazing art, amazing stories and a strong First Nations culture and we need to showcase it to the world,” he said.
Robinson, who is with the Enderby Chamber of Commerce, says some further steps are necessary to finalize a design.
“The logo is a project in principle meaning that it has been created with the intention of working from it to create a final visual brand product to launch and implement,” he said.
Cyr is pleased to see the community embracing Shuswap traditions.
“We are celebrating it as an integral part of our culture,” he said.
“We have cultivated an excellent relationship with the Splatsin band and there is a lot to gain from it.”
The city is currently working with the Splatsin First Nation to develop Shuswap names for area roads in conjunction with the current names of the roads.
