SCO Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn “Glulam” Complete: A Step Forward
Press Release
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is proud to share the “glulam” structure for the skylight is now complete in our Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn project.
This brings us closer to enclosing the building and protecting it from the elements.
The skylight’s glulam framing is inspired by the craftsmanship, artistry, and ingenuity of traditional First Nations builders.
Our design team drew inspiration from a 1971 film called “César’s Bark Canoe.” The documentary follows César Newashish, a 67-year-old Atikamekw from the Manawan Reserve north of Montreal, as he constructs a canoe using only natural materials such as birch bark, cedar splints, spruce roots, and gum.
Through this process, Newashish creates an object that is both beautifully crafted and highly functional. The ribs that provide structural support are shaped to glide through the water with precision while expressing refined, sculptural elegance.
Similarly, the skylight design reflects this balance of strength and beauty, bringing together structural performance and visual grace to honour a tradition where form and function are inseparable.
All wood for the glulam is black spruce harvested out of Quebec and shop fabricated in Cornerstone’s Facility in Kleefeld, Manitoba. A total of 36 pieces were installed.
Sixteen concrete pedestals poured by PCL last fall support the base plates that carry the glulam structure. Coordination and engineering between Cornerstone and Northstar ensured proper scaffold support for the ridge beams during installation.
The completion of the glulam marks the beginning of several parts of the skylight installation, including structural steel, glazing, and gable framing.
Each stage moves us closer to opening a space that reflects our strength, our pride, and our future.
Miigwetch, pidamaya ye, and thank you to PCL, Cornerstone, Northstar, and all subcontractors for helping bring this vision to life.
Learn more about the Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn project.
If you’d like to watch César’s Bark Canoe, visit the website for the National Film Board.
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