Elders and community members of the Acho Dene Koe have shared through oral histories that the primary settlement was originally in what is now British Columbia, Historical accounts suggest that each relocation was necessitated by infectious disease outbreaks introduced by European settlers. Despite these hardships, the Acho Dene Koe community has maintained our traditions and rebuilt our settlement each time, demonstrating our remarkable resilience and adaptability.

The present Fort Liard, also known as Echaot’l Koe, is a hamlet located in the Dehcho Region of the Northwest Territories, Canada.

The name Echaot’l Koe translates to “people from the land of the giants” in English. This name reflects local legends and highlights the deep connection between the Acho Dene Koe people and our ancestral lands.

Fort Liard is situated 37 km (23 mi) north of the British Columbia border and became accessible by road in 1984 with the completion of the Liard Highway (Northwest Territories Highway 7 and British Columbia Highway 77).

The Hamlet of Fort Liard currently serves as the centre of commerce, trade, and education for the Acho Dene Koe First Nation. Presently, two governments coexist in the community—the municipal government (Hamlet of Fort Liard) and the First Nation (Acho Dene Koe First Nation)—each providing programs and services under their respective mandates.

There are two general merchandise stores and a gas station with a restaurant. The community has one school, “Echo Dene School,” which serves students from kindergarten through grade 12. Additionally, there is a community health centre, a Royal Canadian Mounted Police detachment, and a recreational complex that includes a swimming pool, skating rink, youth centre, and multi-court. A traditional craft store selling locally made items, a gathering place for youth, and a First Nation cultural Arbor for hosting culturally significant events are also present.