After months of careful discussion and discernment, the Arboretum Foundation is transferring the Faulstich Totem Pole to the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe at the request of the Faulstich family and the four local, federally recognized tribes: Snoqualmie Indian Tribe, Suquamish Tribe, Tulalip Tribes, and Muckleshoot Indian Tribes.
De-installation and transportation are scheduled for Wednesday, January 8. Artech, Inc., which has extensive experience moving artwork and museum objects, will manage the transfer, with de-installation support from UW Botanic Gardens and Seattle Parks and Recreation. Representatives from the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe will be on hand at their tribal headquarters near Sequim to receive the pole and ensure that it is moved to a safe location.
The Foundation is committed to government-to-government relationships and the inclusive celebration of tribal stewardship, past, present, and future. Thank you to the Faulstich family, members of the Arboretum Native American Advisory Committee, and the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe.
The Arboretum Foundation will continue to work with the Native American Advisory Committee, which includes representatives of the four local tribes, to identify opportunities to celebrate and steward tribal connections.
Postscript: The totem pole was safely delivered to the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe on the afternoon of January 8! See Artech’s photo below. (Updated 1/8/2025)
Photo courtesy Blaire Ramsay/ARTECH Fine Art Services
