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Master Carver Pole: This pole was also designed and carved by John Wallace. It was set up in 1941. The Eagle at the top of the pole is the main crest of the Haida Eagle clan. Other Eagle clan symbols following the main crest are the Beaver and Bullhead.
It was customary on Haida poles to carve the crests of a husband and wife. The wife would be of the opposite clan, the Raven clan, represented by the Raven, the Bear, the Blackfish beneath him and the Hootowl at the base of the pole.
Under the bear's feet are representations of two copper shields which were used as mediums of exchange. Each was named and its value increased with age and number of times it exchanged hands.
The large human figure second from the base, is the Master Carver or Master Carpenter, who taught the Haida woodcarving. The faces carved on the necklace, originally carved on his fingernails, represent daily experiences and lessons learned, thus revealing the secrets of carving.
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