The descendants of Anyitzachist, a chief of the Hesquiaht First Nation of British Columbia, is seeking an apology for the 1869 conviction and hanging of their ancestor.

Anyitzachist was accused of killing two sailors. He was convicted at a trial where no expert testimony was offered and without the aid of an impartial translator, according to his family.

Despite the conviction and hanging, Anyitzachist's son Aim?Anutspato, continued the family tradition of burying people that washed ashore from shipwrecks. He was recognized by the U.S. government and by President Chester A. Arthur for his humanitarian efforts.

"The medal is evidence that our government didn't recognize us, called us dirty savages, while the U.S. president honoured us," Victor Amos told The Vancouver Sun of a gold medal that Arthur gave to Aim? Anutspato. "We called our family together so our children will remember their fathers talking about this."

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Family wants apology from B.C. for hanging of ancestor in front yard of his home (The Vancouver Sun 1/13)