Totem Bight State Historical Park
Alaska
Totem Bight State Historical Park is a 33-acre site located north of Ketchikan, Alaska, on what was once a traditional Native campground known as Mud Village or Mud Bight Village. The park features an impressive collection of totem poles, most of which are replicas of 19th-century originals, and a wood-frame replica of a traditional Tlingit chieftain's house. This community house has a distinctive low oval entrance leading into a square chamber with a central fire pit, decorated with intricately carved house posts. The carvings, including a stylized raven on the facade, were created by Charles Brown, a Tlingit artist from Saxman. The preservation efforts began in 1938 when the U.S. Forest Service, funded by the Civilian Conservation Corps, employed skilled Alaska Native carvers to repair or replicate totem poles abandoned as Native communities relocated for economic opportunities. The park not only conserves these cultural artifacts but also represents a revival of traditional carving skills among younger generations. Since Alaska's statehood in 1959, the park has been managed by the State Department of Natural Resources and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. Visitors can explore accessible trails, picnic facilities, and a visitor information center open in summer months, making it a significant cultural and historical destination in Southeast Alaska.
Planifiez votre voyage en États-Unis avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: Visit during summer months when the Visitor Information Center is open for the best experience and guidance. Consider purchasing tickets or passes in advance if available. The park is wheelchair accessible, with trails and facilities accommodating visitors with disabilities. Exploring early in the day can provide a quieter experience. Guided tours or interpretive materials may enhance understanding of the cultural significance of the totem poles and community house.
Faits intéressants
- •The carvings on the community house were executed by Charles Brown, a Tlingit artist from Saxman.
- •The totem poles are mostly replicas of 19th-century poles that were abandoned and left to rot in the forest.
- •The preservation project was funded by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the late 1930s and early 1940s.
- •The site was originally known as Mud Village or Mud Bight Village before being renamed Totem Bight.
- •The park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, covering 8.5 acres of the site.
Histoire
Originally the site of Mud Village, a traditional Native campground, the area saw its totem poles and villages abandoned as Native peoples moved to economic centers in the early 20th century.
In 1938, the U.S.
Forest Service initiated a preservation project funded by the Civilian Conservation Corps to salvage and replicate totem poles, employing elder Native carvers to pass on their skills.
The community house and 15 totem poles were constructed during this period.
After Alaska gained statehood in 1959, the land was transferred to the State of Alaska, which has managed the site since.
The park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.
Guide du lieu
Chieftain's House Replica1938-1940s
A traditional Tlingit community house replica featuring a low oval entrance, a central fire pit, and elaborately carved house posts including a stylized raven on the facade. The carvings were crafted by Charles Brown, a renowned Tlingit carver.
Totem Poles Collection1938-1940s
Fifteen totem poles, mostly replicas of 19th-century originals, placed throughout the park. These poles depict various clan symbols and stories important to Tlingit culture and heritage.
Contact
Téléphone: (907) 247-8574
