The object was uncovered in the early 20th century in the Tsawwassen area. In the 1920s, chief Harry Joe gave the sculpture to the federal museum that later became the Canadian Museum of History.

For many years the museum labelled the piece as a hump‑backed man. Indigenous experts pointed out that the protrusion on its back is a clam basket, changing its interpretation.

On Friday, the sculpture was flown from the Canadian Museum of History to the Tsawwassen longhouse. A homecoming ceremony was held, during which Tia Williams, the nation’s archaeology coordinator, called the effort “an emotional journey.”

Kim Baird, chief administrative officer of the Tsawwassen First Nation and great‑granddaughter of Harry Joe, said she felt “triumphant” about the return. The repatriation finally honoured Harry Joe’s promise to secure a government audience for a land claim—a promise that was only fulfilled after the nation negotiated a modern treaty.

The Canadian Museum of History released a statement affirming its commitment to reconciliation and its support for the repatriation of cultural heritage. The museum said it is proud to work with Indigenous partners on such matters.