Project 57 Week 15: Story of the Two Sisters (now sometimes known as the two lions)

“According to the legend, Vancouver’s twin peaks, now commonly known as ‘The Lions’ were originally named Ch’ich’iyúy Elxwíkn’ (the Twin Sisters) long ago by a very powerful man known as the Great Tyee of the Caplianos” (Space Make Place). The Great Tyee of the Capilanos “ruled over the Capilano Canyon area” and was a “formidable warrior leader” having won many of his battles against other tribes.  

The story continues with his two daughters, who, upon celebrating their womanhood, were granted a wish by their father, anything they wanted they would get. The girls took this moment to ask for an end to the wars their father currently waged and for invitations of peace to be sent to welcome “all local tribes to a fabulous feast and joyous celebration” (Space Make Place). After the celebration was over, the wars ended, “and a lasting brotherhood was sealed between the warring tribes” (Space Make Place). Since “The daughters brought long-lasting peace to the area and the Great Tyee made them immortal by setting their memory forever in a high place in the mountains to watch over the Pacific Coast and the Capilano Canyon” (Space Make Place).  

If you are interested in learning more about the Two Sisters, please check out these resources:  

• The two sisters / E. Pauline Johnson ; illustrations by Sandra Butt.E. Pauline Johnson 1861-1913, author ; Sandra Butt illustrator. Vancouver, British Columbia : Waterlea Books, 2016
• Legends of Vancouver – The Two Sisters  
• Video by Canadiana: The Hidden Story Behind Vancouver’s Twin Peaks.