Wrangell / Shtax’héen Kwáan: The Tlingit Stronghold at the Stikine
In the heart of Southeast Alaska, where the majestic Stikine River meets the mighty Pacific Ocean, lies the Tlingit stronghold of Wrangell. For centuries, this strategic location has been the epicenter of Tlingit trade, politics, and culture. The Shtax’héen Kwáan, or ‘People of the Stikine River’, have called this place home, and their rich history and legacy continue to shape the town’s identity.
Kooteeyaa (Old Wrangell/Chief Shakes Island)
At the confluence of the Stikine and West arms of the Wrangell Narrows, lies Kooteeyaa, also known as Chief Shakes Island. This sacred site is steeped in Tlingit history and tradition. It was here that the great Tlingit leader, Chief Shakes, built his magnificent Tribal House, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Shtax’héen Kwáan.
Chief Shakes’ Tribal House was a marvel of Tlingit engineering, a massive structure that stood over 100 feet tall, adorned with intricate carvings and totem poles. It was a symbol of the Shtax’héen Kwáan’s power and influence, a beacon that attracted traders and visitors from far and wide.
The Strategic Importance of the Stikine River
The Stikine River has long been a vital trade route, connecting the Shtax’héen Kwáan to the Interior Athabascans. This corridor facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures, cementing the Tlingit position as a major power in the region. The river’s bounty of salmon, halibut, and other seafood made it an attractive destination for traders and fishermen alike.
Chief Shakes Lineage and the Famous Chief Shakes Tribal House
Chief Shakes was a member of the renowned Shtax’héen Kwáan’s Raven moiety. His lineage is deeply connected to the land, the river, and the people. The Chief Shakes Tribal House, built in the early 19th century, was a hub of Tlingit activity, hosting countless ceremonies, feasts, and gatherings. Today, a replica of the original house stands on Kooteeyaa, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Shtax’héen Kwáan.
Petroglyph Beach and Ancient Rock Carvings
Nearby, Petroglyph Beach boasts an impressive array of ancient rock carvings, a testament to the Shtax’héen Kwáan’s rich artistic heritage. These enigmatic symbols, etched into the rocks over a thousand years ago, offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who came before. They tell stories of the natural world, the spirits, and the Tlingit’s place within it.
Three Colonial Occupations: Tlingit, Russian, British, American
Wrangell’s history is a complex tapestry of colonization and resistance. The Shtax’héen Kwáan have endured three distinct colonial occupations: the Tlingit, who initially inhabited the area; the Russians, who arrived in the late 18th century; the British, who took control in the early 19th century; and finally, the Americans, who established the town in 1880. Through it all, the Shtax’héen Kwáan have maintained their cultural identity and continued to thrive.
Tlingit Clan Houses and Cultural Sites in Modern Wrangell
Today, Wrangell is home to several Tlingit clan houses and cultural sites, a testament to the Shtax’héen Kwáan’s persistence and resilience. The Bear Tribal House, a modern structure built in the 1990s, serves as a hub for Tlingit cultural activities and events. Visitors can explore the house, learn about Tlingit traditions, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Shtax’héen Kwáan.
Tlingit Culture and the Land
The Tlingit people have an intricate relationship with the land, which is deeply connected to their spirituality, culture, and way of life. They believe that the land is imbued with spiritual energy, and that they must live in harmony with nature to maintain balance and well-being. This profound connection to the land is evident in the Shtax’héen Kwáan’s art, stories, and traditions, which continue to inspire and educate visitors to Wrangell.
Planning Your Trip to Wrangell
Wrangell offers a wealth of outdoor activities for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Explore the town’s many trails, including the Wrangell Trail, which takes you through ancient forests and offers stunning views of the Stikine River. Visit the Anan Bear Observatory, a protected area where you can witness the majestic grizzly bears that inhabit the region. Or, take a boat tour of the Wrangell Narrows, where you can see the stunning scenery and learn about the area’s rich history.
Learn More
* Wrangell Cooperative Association: [www.wrangellcoop.org](http://www.wrangellcoop.org)
* Sealaska Heritage Institute: [www.sealaskaheritage.org](http://www.sealaskaheritage.org)
Sources
* National Park Service: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve
* Wrangell Museum: A History of Wrangell, Alaska
* Sealaska Heritage Institute: The Tlingit People of Southeast Alaska
* University of Alaska Fairbanks: The Tlingit and their Neighbors: Tlingit and Haida Cultural Traditions
* Smithsonian Institution: The Tlingit Indians of Alaska