Haida Gwaii (formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands) consists of two islands separated by narrow Skidegate Inlet and a number of smaller surrounding islands. They are situated 60 miles west of mainland BC and just south of the Alaska Panhandle. The word haida means 'people'.

European traders first came in 1787 in search of sea otter skins. Others arrived in 1852 looking for gold. Little gold was found, and for a long time the isolation of the islands discouraged European settlers from arriving. In 1887 it was reported that fur seals and dog fish oil were the only products of importance, but there was a whaling industry for many years and later salmon fishing and logging.

Today heritage tourism is a major economic generator on the islands. Sgan Gwaii (Ninstints) at the southerly extremity of the islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stand of old totem poles and the remains of 20 big houses. It is not easily accessible, but tour groups can have access.

The Haida Heritage Centre at Qay'llnagaay is located on a rocky headland at Second Beach, between Skidegate Landing and the main part of the Village of Skidegate. The museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the human and natural history of Haida Gwaii, with outstanding collections of Haida art and technology, and excellent fossil and natural history specimens. Items on display include Haida wood and argillite carvings, pioneer artifacts, historic photographs, ancient totem poles from Tanu and Skedans dating back to 1878.

Resources:
 
Haida Gwaii Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_Charlotte_Islands
 
Haida Heritage Centre:
http://www.haidaheritagecentre.com/
 
Council of the Haida Nation:
http://www.haidanation.ca/