Tulita

Tulita, NWT, incorporated as a hamlet in 1984, population 478 (2011c), 505 (2006c). The Hamlet of Tulita was formerly known as Fort Norman. The hamlet's traditional name, which it took in 1996, reflects the community's location, "where the waters meet." Tulita is located at the junction of the MACKENZIE RIVER and Great Bear River, which empties GREAT BEAR LAKE. The site has always been of seasonal importance to the SLAVEY Dene.

Because of its location at a river junction, Sir John FRANKLIN used it as a transportation centre for his explorations into the region. A notable feature is a restored Anglican church built of squared logs in the 1860s. The hunting, fishing, and trapping life of the Dene is supplemented by employment in the oil industry at NORMAN WELLS, 85 km downstream on the Mackenzie River. Tourism is also important.

Author ANNELIES POOL

Links to Other Sites
Lessons from the Land: Idaa Trail
Take a virtual tour along the Idaa Trail, a traditional canoe route of the Tåîchô (Dogrib) people in the Northwest Territories. Click on the names along the trail to learn about the history of each site. See the teachers' guide and other sections of the extensive Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre website for more information.