An artifact is an object that has been made or transformed by humans. For example, an arrowhead is an artifact; a tree branch is not an artifact.
Many artifacts are part of museum collections. These collections also include objects gathered over time by the Aboriginal people themselves, the European missionaries and scientists. It is with the help of these objects that researchers and visitors can better understand the past. In these collections are ceremonial objects such as pipes, and everyday objects, such as tools and fishing hooks.
It is very important for everyone to respect and preserve these objects from the past, which, for the Aboriginal peoples, represent their heritage and their cultures.