The Chetwynd eagle sculpture, a gift to Prince Rupert, has been fully restored after an act of vandalism damaged one of its wings shortly after it was presented.
The Chetwynd eagle sculpture, a detailed wood carving gifted to Prince Rupert, has been restored after being vandalized earlier this year. The restoration brings relief to both communities, as the carving represents friendship and cultural connection between the two northern towns.
The eagle was presented in May during the North Central Local Government Association conference. The District of Chetwynd gave the sculpture as a gesture of goodwill and unity. The large wooden carving, made by a skilled artist, symbolized strength, resilience, and community ties. Only days later, the eagle faced an act of vandalism. One of its wings was removed, leaving the sculpture incomplete and sparking disappointment among residents and officials. The damage was described as a senseless act that disrespected not only the city but also the neighboring community that had given the gift.
Staff members in Prince Rupert later took on the task of repairing the eagle. Using careful methods to preserve the original design, they restored the wing and returned the sculpture to its full form. The District of Chetwynd confirmed that the work was completed to its original condition. Steve McLain, the chief administrative officer of Chetwynd, said the news was welcomed by the community. He explained that while the damage had been frustrating, the effort by Prince Rupert staff showed real dedication to honoring the gift. For Chetwynd, the carving carried deep meaning, and its restoration ensured that the original purpose of the gift was respected.
The eagle carving is more than just a piece of art. For the people of Chetwynd, wood carving has become a cultural symbol. The town is well known for its annual chainsaw carving event, which draws artists from across Canada and abroad. Each year, new sculptures are created, turning the community into an outdoor gallery of wooden art. By gifting an eagle carving, Chetwynd extended its cultural identity and artistic spirit to Prince Rupert. The eagle, often seen as a figure of vision and strength, was chosen to represent a bond between communities on the northern coast and the interior.
When the wing was broken, many felt that the bond between the communities was also damaged. The restoration has therefore been viewed as more than a repair. It is seen as a renewal of that connection. Local residents in Prince Rupert have expressed gratitude for the repair. Some say the sculpture now serves as a reminder of resilience, not only for the carving itself but also for the communities that care about it. Others see the restoration as an example of how people can respond positively to challenges.
In Chetwynd, where the carving was created, the news of its return to full form has been welcomed. Community members there have a strong sense of pride in their artists, and the restored sculpture stands as proof that their work continues to be valued outside their town. Officials in both towns have said they hope the incident will not overshadow the purpose of the gift. Instead, they want the eagle to remain a permanent symbol of strength, cooperation, and friendship.
The sculpture now remains on display in Prince Rupert, where visitors can see the restored artwork and reflect on its story. The event has also drawn attention to the importance of protecting public art. Communities across the region invest in cultural displays that help share their identity, and vandalism threatens those efforts. By restoring the eagle, Prince Rupert has set an example of how communities can act quickly to protect cultural gifts and honor the meaning behind them.
