When Brian Antonson speaks about his book Slumach’S Gold: In Search of a Legend…and a Curse, his passion is unmistakable. Co-authored with his brother Rick Antonson, and lifelong friend and fellow BCIT alum Mary Trainer, has become a Canadian best seller with more than 25,000 copies sold. First published in 1972, it was a modest 56-page exploration of a BC legend. Now, more than five decades later, it has grown to 224 pages, complete with maps, photographs, and decades of research.
But the success and recognition of Slumach’s Gold is only a part of Brian’s remarkable journey which also spans the history of BCIT and the evolution of broadcasting in BC.
From broadcasting student to leader
Brian’s love of broadcasting started when he was 14. He originally had plans to become a disk jockey but then shifted his sights on becoming a radio producer. This pivot, led to the start of his connection with BCIT.
Immediately after graduating from the Broadcast and Media Communications program in 1969, he began his career as a radio producer. It didn’t take long before BCIT invited him to teach in the Broadcasting department in 1974.
Over the next several decades, Brian’s career progressed first as a faculty member, then as head of the radio program in 1982, head of the department in 1985, and eventually Associate Dean of Broadcast and Media. It was the perfect combination of his love of teaching, mentoring, and watching students thrive.
“BCIT was very good to me as a student, faculty, and head of department,” Brian says.
His mark on BCIT and influence and the broadcast industry in BC was unmistakable. When he retired in 2010, and more than 500 people came to say their farewells and celebrate his career. Among them were two broadcast greats from Brian’s earliest broadcast dreams.
“The first two people who greeted me at my retirement were broadcasters I’d idolized as a young radio wannabe, Red Robinson and Frosty Forst,” he recalls. “As I walked into our large TV studio to a huge ‘SURPRISE!!!!,’ Red and Frosty were standing right by the door! I had no idea this was happening, and, indeed, it was a HUGE surprise!”
Slumach’s Gold: A captivating mystery
In retirement, Brian has turned his attention to pursue one of BC’s most enduring mysteries of an Indigenous Salish man named Slumach. As legend has it, Slumach would frequent the saloons of New Westminster with gold nuggets the size of walnuts supposedly from a hidden mine around Pitt Lake. After he was hanged for murder in 1891, rumours spread about the gold and the curse he cast to protect the motherlode. For over 130 years, treasure hunters have searched for the gold and some never returned.
The legend is so captivating that it was featured on the History Channel series, Deadman’s Curse. Brian has been fascinated by the tale ever since he first heard about it when he was nine years old. While he did not join the hunt, he partnered with Rick and Mary to research the tale to uncover the truth behind the myth.
Still writing. Still inspiring.
Even in retirement, Brian’s schedule has not slowed down. “I’ve been ‘retired’ now for 14 years and am a pretty busy guy,” Brian laughs. His contributions to broadcasting, BCIT, and Canadian folklore continue to resonate. In addition to writing, he remains active in the BCIT community and currently serves as Secretary of the BCIT Retirement Association.
When asked what guidance he has to offer to alumni and students, Brian shares “Seize the day. Carpe Diem. If you have the opportunity to do something, jump into it. Give it your best. We all have things/talents we can share with people.”
As for the legendary gold? Brian doesn’t think it will ever be found, but Slumach’s Gold offers more than valuable treasure. It offers a glimpse into BC’s history, a compelling mystery, and a lifelong journey of discovery.
Watch this video to find out more about Brian Antonson and Slumach’s Gold.
(Photos courtesy of Erin Trainer and Heritage House Publishing.)