ACTIVITIES
Sitka’s
Guardians
A VISIT TO SITKA isn’t
complete without a walk
through Sitka National Historic Park. This park
commemorates the site of the 1804 Battle of Sitka
between invading Russian traders and the Tlingit
Kiks.ádi clan who have lived on this land since
time immemorial.
Twenty totem poles, sheltered beneath the branches of Sitka spruce and
hemlock trees, are spread along this one-mile trail. Behind each pole sits a
plaque, which allows walkers to participate in a self-paced audio tour. Just
scan the QR code or call the phone number printed on the plaque for an
in-depth description of each pole. Listen to Tlingit and Haida legends and
history, and learn the difference between memorial poles, mortuary poles,
and shame poles. You’ll also find out how 13 totem poles and house posts
ended up here after the 1904 St. Louis World Fair.
A Culture
Among
Generations
we cherish our
grandchildren; no matter what we value, we
offer it up to them,” Charlie Joseph Sr. once
said. Since 1974, the Sitka Native Education
Program (SNEP) has been empowering Native
students in Sitka by providing them with
cultural education and academic support.
One of the program’s earliest and most driven
advocates was Charlie Joseph Sr., a leader and
spokesperson among the Tlingit community.
“EVEN FROM LONG AGO,
partnership with the Sitka School District, making sure
or “Holding Hands Centennial,” pole was a collaborative effort led by artist was an opportunity to connect students with their culture as students across Sitka have access to cultural education and
Tommy Joseph. Completed in 2011, this totem pole is an exciting example of well as preserve Tlingit language and songs, which at that enrichment. The programming is designed to enhance the
the new generation of carvers and proof that the art form is alive and well. time, were in danger of being lost forever. regular school curriculum, with current programs ranging
Throughout the summer, Sitka National Historic Park offers a thriving Artists- Joseph worked with SNEP until his death in 1987. Joseph’s
work of woodworkers, weavers, beaders, silver carvers, and fiber artists; ask
questions; and see them in action as they work.
At younger ages, in-school activities include learning Tlingit
Makinen, working as a lead teacher for many years, and his language, songs, dance, beading, and drumming. As students
granddaughter, Lillian, who went through the SNEP program grow older, the program expands to include traditional art
and later took on leadership roles. classes, such as wood carving and formline design, as well
its original location at the Alaska Native Brotherhood Hall and
later at Centennial Hall, for many. She explains, “Those of
us who participated in the program, we often wonder what
our lives would have been like without SNEP. SNEP made us
into who we are today. It gave us a sense of self-confidence
STEM camps, including fish camp, intertidal camp, berry
camp, cedar and canoe camp, and more. During many of the
programs, elders are in-house, sharing their expertise and
stories with the students.
behind for the younger generation, inspiring them to want to participate in the Naa Kahidi Dancers. Every summer,
learn about their culture and identity.” the dance troupe shares a selection of Tlingit songs and
that was apparent in 2014 at SNEP’s 40-year reunion, where
students from every generation of the program came together
to share memories, stories, and culture.
V I S I T
S I T KA
dances with the public at the Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi
Community House. Those visiting Sitka from May through
September can stop by to enjoy one of their performances
and learn more about the Tlingit culture and history. You won’t
want to miss out on the unique rhythms and cultural songs
that have been passed down from generation to generation.
NPS
V I S I T S I T K A .O R G
dance group. In the summer months, SNEP offers specialized
In addition, many students and graduates from SNEP
program, Lillian laughs. “Oh, hundreds upon hundreds.” And
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as the option to join the Gaaja Heen dancers, a traveling
and identity we needed. Now, we can leave these footprints
When asked how many students have been impacted by the
M AG A Z I N E
from preschool through high school.
family has also been heavily involved, with this daughter, Ethel
Lillian said SNEP served as a home away from home, first in
S I T K A
Over the past 10 years, SNEP has developed a close
For Joseph, who also went by his Tlingit name Kaal.átk’, SNEP
work in the studios in the visitor center. Be sure to stop by to admire the
V I S I T
Local students help paint a mortuary pole replica with carver Tommy Joseph
Not all of these poles, however, are old. The “Wooch Jin Dul Shat Kooteeya,”
in-Residence program. You’ll often find Joseph and other Native artists at
David Weinberger
Photos courtesy of James Poulson, Daily Sitka Sentinel
M AG A Z I N E
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V I S I T S I T KA .O R G