Step back in time to the land of the Tlingits Indians (pronounced Klinket). Sitka, Alaska is one of the few places where Native Americans have influenced the entire town. Perhaps it is because the Tlingits have lived continuously in Sitka for over 50 centuries. Out of Sitka’s 8,500 population, 3,200 are natives. Take this opportunity to meet these friendly Tlingit Indians and experience their culture. Don’t miss Sitka Tribal Tours, they really know Sitka and tell stories of the past. One of their most exciting stops, Sitka National Historical Park, or Totem Park, is the perfect start for your tour. You will see several fascinating totem poles at the entrance to the park. Each totem pole is different, each tells a story of an event identifies their families’ history. Totem poles range as high as 65′ tall while the average measures between 35′ and 40′ tall. Every Tlingit is a member of either the Raven or Eagle groups (referred to as moieties). This is a matriarchal society in which the mothers make the decisions, and marriage was formerly allowed only between persons from opposite moieties.
The park commemorates a battle between the Russians and Tlingits, in 1804. You can enjoy easy hiking paths running through 113 acres of rainforest scenery and historic points. The highlight of your stay, the Visitor’s Center and Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center immerses you into the Tlingit culture. Watch Tommy Joseph, a Tlingit Indian of the Kaagwaantaan Clan, as he carves ceremonial masks, totem poles, and helmets out of large pieces of wood. See native weavers prepare garments and rugs. This is your chance to speak to the artists, and ask them questions. These artists explain and teach the techniques of their art to the Indians and the public. Within the building are more examples of spectacular cedar totem poles and a professional museum of historical exhibits.
Sitka Tribal Tours brings you to the world of the Tlingits, to the Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi (community house). The traditional community house provided clan families a gathering place for special occasions. Listen to the exciting rhythms of the drums while the Indians perform dances of early days. The costumes, the dancer’s movements, and the animal sounds, all make the folklore of the past come alive. Look on the back of the dancer’s costumes to see the signs of their clans. During the last dance, the Tlingit’s invite the audience to join their dance. After the show, you can meet the dancers and take photos with them.
Their tour encompasses several aspects of Tlingit life. They visit the Sheldon Jackson Museum, the oldest museum in Alaska. This museum houses the largest collection of artifacts representing Alaska’s native cultures gathered between 1888 and 1898 by missionary-educator, Reverend Dr. Sheldon Jackson. You see a broad spectrum from Alaska Native watercraft to tools, equipment, clothing and ceremonial objects. I was thrilled with Sitka, experiencing the Tlingit Indians, and the Sitka Tribal Tours. www.sitkatribal.com
When you purchase native-made arts or crafts, be certain that they are authentic. Identify the arts and crafts made by Alaskan natives by the markings “Indian,” “Native American,” “Alaskan Native,” or a silver hand symbol. Ask if the item comes with a certification tag. They have some of the most beautiful walrus ivory jewelry, carvings, and sculptures. By law, new walrus ivory may only be caught and carved by an Alaskan native.
