Each Kootéeya tells a story . Read from the bottom images to the top .
HARMONY At the top of the pole are a Raven and an Eagle designed by Tommy Joseph to represent the harmony between the two Tlingít moieties .
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE Next , you see a bison , symbolizing the National Park Service , which showcases a Chilkat robe draped over one shoulder ; it was inspired by the prolific late artist and master weaver Teri Rofkar . The robe is a reminder of the park ’ s 42-year partnership with the Alaskan Indian Cultural Center .
RUSSIAN AMERICAN HISTORY The pole also features Sitka ’ s Russian American history through a circle , representing the Orthodox calendar , and a square that symbolizes a Russian “ possession stone .”
A MINIATURE OF THE PARK Continuing up the pole , you see skunk cabbage and Devil ’ s Club , or s ’ áxt in Tlingít , carvings surround a miniature totem pole , a nod to the many totems and greenery located throughout SNHP .
MOTHER EARTH As you look up the pole , vibrant green and yellow leaves wind around and sit like a crown atop the head of a female figure – Mother Earth . Haida carver Donnie Varnell framed the figure ’ s face with two salmon , one male and one female , to demonstrate balance .
MERRILL ROCK At the very bottom of the pole is a replica of Merrill Rock , in remembrance of E . W . Merrill , the first custodian of the park and a local photographer who captured 30 years of Sitka history and culture in the early 20th century .
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