Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre

The Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre on the edge of town is the main gateway to the culture and history of the Cowichan people, who have lived in this valley for thousands of years. The centre houses exhibitions on Cowichan history and traditions, a longhouse, carving studio, and a shop selling authentic Cowichan knitwear and other crafts directly from the artisans who make them.

The centre's exhibitions cover the breadth of Cowichan culture — from the cedar canoe tradition to contemporary art — and the staff who work there are often Cowichan members who can speak to the history personally. The shop is the most reliable place on Vancouver Island to find genuine hand-knitted Cowichan sweaters; the distinctive geometric patterns are widely imitated but the real thing, made from unbleached wool, has a particular weight and texture.

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A story
The Cowichan sweater — a heavy, undyed wool knit in bold geometric patterns — was developed by Cowichan women in the late 19th century, combining traditional Coast Salish weaving with knitting techniques learned from European settlers. The sweaters became internationally recognised in the 20th century, worn by everyone from Royal Canadian Mounted Police to American presidents. A genuine hand-knitted Cowichan sweater takes 40 to 80 hours to complete.