The Story Behind Birch & Arrow Co.
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Artisan, Hilary Chambers
I was lucky enough to be close friends with the late famed "Indian Horse" author Richard Wagamese. We shared endless stories and moments together for well over half my life...a few of those were on the land in Port Loring, On. I remember the first time he came to my place and on the drive in mentioning how good it felt to be back in Ojibway territory...being close to the land, water and the trees. |
We had many moments of joking and laughter...one of the funniest was when Richard all of a sudden jumped up and said "Son of a Birch!" and ran over to give a small stand of Northern white birch trees a hug..he never ceased to make me smile. This moment stuck with me after he passed. I miss him terribly and I wanted something to hold on to. I went to that grove of Birch trees to pray, I removed some of the loose bark and took it home with me. At some point the idea came to me that I could make myself a pendant using that birch and always keep something he touched close to my heart. I made two, 1 for myself and 1 for his soul mate Yvette.
Many people since have requested a piece like mine, and while no more will be made from these trees, I am happy to say that there are many happy customers wearing a piece of true Northern Ontario Birch.
Why Birch?
All of the bark used in our jewellery is ethically sourced and not harvested from live trees. The white birch we use comes from Northern Ontario Canada, and carries within it, the energy of our Great Canadian Wilderness.
Birch is believed to ward off evil, banish fears and build courage.
Associated with beauty and tolerance, it heightens tolerance of oneself and others. The birch tree symbolizes a fresh start and can bring courage and determination to those of us who are treading the path of spiritual growth.
Although birch bark does appear fragile, it is in fact extremely hardy. This teaches us that in apparent weakness there is often great strength to be found. Birch promises new life and love, and is a potent symbol of purification and renewal.
Birch is believed to ward off evil, banish fears and build courage.
Associated with beauty and tolerance, it heightens tolerance of oneself and others. The birch tree symbolizes a fresh start and can bring courage and determination to those of us who are treading the path of spiritual growth.
Although birch bark does appear fragile, it is in fact extremely hardy. This teaches us that in apparent weakness there is often great strength to be found. Birch promises new life and love, and is a potent symbol of purification and renewal.
