Stikine River Tours Harbor

2011 WRANGELL GUIDE FREE Page 2 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Welcome to friendly Wrangell, Alaska Wrangell, one of the most tains of Alaska’s Panhandle historic communities in along the scenic Inside Alaska, is the only town in the Passage. state to have been ruled by Situated in the middle of four nations: Tlingit, Russia, the Tongass National Forest, Britain, and the United States. the island has a mild climate Wrangell also has the repu- with temperatures seldom dip- tation for being the “friend- ping below freezing in the liest little town in Southeast winter. Rain is more common Alaska.” than snow and summer tem- Located on the northern tip peratures range anywhere of 30-mile-long Wrangell from the mid-50s to the mid- Island, Wrangell is a commu- 70s. nity of about 2,300 people, set Wrangell is 750 miles north amid the forests and moun- of Seattle, 85 miles north of

Wrangell’s waterfront is • Guided Tours to Anan Wildlife home to boats large and Observatory small. Kayakers and • Charter Fishing Trips canoers join larger fishing • Fly Fishing boats and tenders in the • Stikine River Tours harbor. Including Telegraph Creek B.C. • Glacier Tours Ketchikan, and 150 miles • Wildlife Viewing - Special Feature south of Juneau, the state capi- • Whale Watching - Special Feature tol. It sits near the delta of the • Transporter (Water Taxi) Service mighty Stikine River, an • Customized Packages Available important resource in the lives of those who live here. Through it, Wrangellites enjoy Half, full or multi-day adventures. We will customize recreation, commerce, and any combination of activities to meet your interest. We Bear Necessity subsistence. At Wrangell’s offer guide and transporter service to the Anan Wildlife 53’ Yacht back door is neighboring Observatory and many other points of interest. We make it 6 person max British Columbia, the western- our business to know the current activity level & best viewing most province of Canada. On times possible, based on today or yesterday, not last a clear day you can see the week. Alaska Peak & Seas does not run on set schedules, majestic snowcapped moun- our bears & clients do this for us. Watch and listen to the tains to the north and east of whales, a service unique to Alaska Peak & Seas. View Wrangell Island, which spill to porpoise, seals, sea lions, eagles, seabirds, and much the coast. The border is only more. Visit natural hot springs. Ask about viewing brown hours away via airplane or and black bear in one of our remote locations away from boat up the Stikine River. the crowds in a pure, Alaskan setting, a service exclusive Stikine Spirit Between here and there lie to Alaska Peak & Seas. Give us a call - our goal is to let 28’ Heated Jet Boat many lakes and rivers avail- you feel Alaska as well as view it. 16 person max able for camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Mark A. Galla Developed as a trading post Over 35 Years Local Experience for the native Tlingit and early Registered Guide/Outfitter white settlers, Wrangell was USCG Licensed Captain, First Aid & CPR Certified incorporated in 1903. P.O. Box 362, Wrangell, AK 99929 However, not much remains of Cell Phone (907) 470-3200, (907) 874-2454 (phone & fax) Website: wedoalaska.com the original town – downtown Photo by Ivan Simonek E-Mail: [email protected] has twice been decimated by

Alaska Peak & Seas is an equal opportunity provider & is a permit holder of the Tongass National Forest. See Welcome, page 3 WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 3 Welcome, continued Continued from page 2 ping. The downtown harbor can fire; first in 1906 and again in accommodate small pleasure 1952. craft and larger fishing ves- Wrangell has periodically sels. Slips for visitors are seen declines in its economy available either in the down- due to constraints on the tim- town harbor or at Shoemaker ber and fishing industries. The Bay, about five miles south of region continues to clamor for town on the island’s west side stability for its human inhabi- or at Wrangell’s newest har- tants through the ever-chang- bor, Heritage Harbor, located ing sport and commercial fish- approximately a mile from ing industries, small-scale downtown. timber operations, and the To obtain a slip assign- development of the tourism ment, vessel captains should industry. contact the harbormaster on Wrangell has a fleet of VHF Ch.16. The harbormaster hand and power trollers, sein- is on duty from 7 a.m. to 11 ers, and gillnet vessels. p.m., seven days a week. Salmon is the major product, The harbormaster office is along with halibut, shrimp, located at the head of crab and herring. Several Wrangell Harbor (Reliance seafood processors are scat- Dock) and is open from 8 a.m. tered throughout town. to 5 p.m., Monday through Individual fishermen have Friday, and can be reached at been known to sell their catch 874-3736. Harbor personnel to residents or visitors on the are on duty 7 days a week. docks in the downtown harbor If the harbormaster can’t be area. You can watch the catch- reached, a transient float is es being hauled onto the docks located at Reliance dock, the and sample some of the fresh- first float on the port side past est seafood you’ll ever taste. the seaplane float. Boats may Wrangell shrimp are tie up here until the harbor- famous for their delectable master is contacted by phone flavor. From large, luscious or radio. prawns to the small salad vari- Wrangell offers a true taste Mail is not delivered to street addresses in Wrangell so resi- ety, the shrimp truly melt in of small town Alaskan life dents must pick up their mail at the Post Office. It is also a your mouth. Local restaurants with friendly residents who great place to run into friends and swap news. feature shrimp in dinners and welcome visitors. Everyone in salads. Shrimp are also sold by town is an unofficial greeter. local fishermen and proces- Don’t hesitate to ask if you The Wrangell Guide sors, and packaged for ship- need help. Copyright 2011, Pilot Publishing, Inc.

Throw in a Wrangell Wriggle or two and you have Published by Pilot Publishing, Inc., owned by Anne and Ron the BEST tour available in Southeast Alaska! Loesch, P.O. Box 798, Wrangell, Alaska 99929; phone (907) 874- 2301, fax (907) 874-2303, email: [email protected]. Editors of the Guide are Anne and Ron Loesch with design and advertising sales by Kris Reed. No part of the Wrangell Guide may be reproduced or used without the written permission of Pilot Publishing. Maps on pages 15, 16, 17 & 18 courtesy of US Forest Service.

Cover photograph: A crisp fall day at Totem Park pops with color. See pages 26 - 31 for more photos and information about Wrangell’s totems. Page 4 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 ~ Guide to Local Services ~

PUBLIC SAFETY Wrangell Museum: Kadin Buiding on Front 333 Church Street, 874-2373; Located in the James and Street. Phone 874-3822. Alaska Crossings Program, Police (874-3304 or 911): Elsie Nolan Center at 296 Hunting and fishing licenses 110 Lynch Street, 874-2371. Public Safety Building, Campbell Drive. Phone 874- are available at sporting goods Zimovia Highway. 3770. Open Mondays through stores. SENIORS Fire (911): To report a Fish and Wildlife Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wrangell Senior Citizens fire, call for an ambulance, or Protection Trooper: On sec- from May 1 - September 30. Center: Open noon Mon., call for search and rescue. ond floor of Kadin Bldg. on Admission charge; children Wed., Thurs. and Fri. in the The fire hall is in the Public Front Street. Phone 874-3215. under 6, free. white frame building at corner Safety Building, Zimovia U.S. Forest Service: of Church and McKinnon Highway, Administrative Located at 525 Bennett Street. TRAVELING TO AND Streets. Phone 874-2066. number is 874-3223. Phone 874-2323. Hours 8 a.m. State Court: On second FROM THE ISLAND - 4:30 p.m. Mon. - Fri. For floor of the Public Safety Alaska Airline Terminal: reservations or information on MEDIA Building, Zimovia Highway. Located north of downtown, rentals of public recreation Wrangell Radio KSTK- Phone 874-2311. The local along Evergreen Avenue or via cabins, call toll free 1-877- FM: At Church and St. magistrate is Chris Ellis. Bennett Street, approximately 444-6777 or log on to Michaels streets. Transmits at 1.5 miles. Two flights per day, www.recreation.gov. 101.7 FM, and at 91.9 at CITY AND north bound in the morning and Shoemaker Bay. Phone 874- BOROUGH OF south bound in the afternoon. 2345. A public radio station Call 874-3308 for recorded U.S. CUSTOMS offering news and music 24 WRANGELL flight information or 874-3309 AND BORDER hours a day. City Hall: Lynch and for freight info. Wrangell Sentinel: Brueger streets. Phone 874- Alaska Department of PROTECTION Located at 205 Front Street, 2381. Transportation: Airport and Office in a trailer at the the oldest continuously pub- Wrangell Public School highway maintenance building Airport. Call 874-3415 before lished newspaper in Alaska. A District Office: On Bennett on the airport road (Bennett stopping in. weekly newspaper, published Street in the Elementary Street). 874-3107. on Thursdays, covering local School. Phone 874-2347. Alaska Marine Highway: HEALTH news and state news as it Wrangell High and For 24-hour recorded message Wrangell Medical applies to Wrangell. Phone Middle Schools: Located on of ferry arrivals and depar- Center: On Bennett Street, 874-2301. Church Street. Phone 874- tures, phone 874-3711. The next to the elementary school. 3395/3393. ferry terminal is one block Phone 874-7000. PHONE Harbormaster: The harbor north of Stikine Inn. Office Office of Childrens Calling prefix for Wrangell office is located beside the opens two hours before Services: In the Kadin land line phones is 874, and the Reliance Dock near the arrivals, and is open 30 min- Building, second floor. Phone area code is 907, the same as entrance to the Harbor. Office utes after departures. Call 874- 874-3789. the rest of Alaska. To make hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon. 2021 or 1-800-642-0066 for Alaska Public Health long-distance calls from - Fri., and Harbor dept. person- reservations. Nurse: Wrangell Health Wrangell, it is necessary to dial nel can be reached 7 days a Rainforest Islands Ferry: Center, Kadin Building, first "1" before the area code and week from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. The Rainforest Islands Ferry floor. Phone 874-3615. The phone number. Phone 874-3736. VHF 16. will begin service from Prince local nurse is Janet Strom. Public Library: The Irene of Wales Island to Wrangell Alaska Island MAIL AND Ingle Public Library is on and Petersburg in 2012. Community Services: Second Avenue across from Medical Clinic, 320 Bennett ZIP CODE: 99929 the Post Office. Hours are: Mail pick-up and delivery is HUNTING, FISHING St., 874-4700; Dental Clinic, Monday and Friday 10 a.m. to Kadin Building on Front at the Post Office only; there noon and 1 to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, AND RECREATION Street, 874-3731; Day Care are no drop boxes around Wednesday and Thursday Alaska Department of Assistance, 333 Church Street town. The Post Office lobby is from 1 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 Fish and Game: For sport 874-2373; Senior & Disability locked from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 and commercial fishing infor- Services, 110 Lynch Street, Mail may be dropped off in a p.m.; closed Sunday. Phone mation, and hunting informa- 874-3375; Mental Health & box in the back of the build- 874-3535. tion. On second floor of the Substance Abuse Services, ing. WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 5 ~ Guide to Local Services ~

WORSHIP SERVICES Church of God Legion Hall. No meetings www.Wrangell.com/Chamber Sunday School 10 a.m., May - Sept. 874-3871 Commerce.htm. Harbor Light Services 11 a.m. 874-3964 American Legion Auxiliary Assembly of God Bill Knight, Pastor Unit 6 Sunday School, 9:45 a.m., ALASKA TIME Wrangell Seventh-Day 1:30 p.m. third Thur. of the Church Service 10:30 a.m., Clocks in Wrangell are set to Adventist Church month at the Legion Hall on Youth 6 p.m.; Tues., Men’s Alaska Time. Alaska Time is Saturday worship 11 a.m., Zimovia Highway Prayer and Devotion 6:00 a.m. one hour earlier than Pacific Young people & adult study Alaska Pioneers Igloo 21 Wed., Worship & Bible Study Time, which is the setting used 9:30 a.m., 874-3039 7:00 p.m. the third Thurs. of 6:30 p.m.; Fri., Youth Group 7 on the United States West Bible Baptist Church the month at the Senior p.m.; Sat., 874-2244, Kem Coast and in British Columbia. Sunday School 9:45 a.m., Center, Sept. - May. Haggard, Pastor. In June, the sun sets in Sunday Worship, 11 a.m. & 6 Alaska Pioneers Igloo 15 St. Rose of Lima Wrangell at about 10 p.m. p.m., Wed., family 7:00 p.m. the second Wed. of Catholic Church dinner/Bible study, 6 p.m., the month at the Senior Saturday Mass 5:30 p.m. 874-2069 Rev. Doug Shoultz Center, Sept. - May. WRANGELL Sunday Mass 10:00 a.m. fol- Baha’i Faith Alaska Native Sisterhood lowed by fellowship. 874- WEATHER Children’s Classes, Jr. Youth Camp No. 1 3771 Father Thomas Weise. Rainy weather with mild tem- Group, Devotional Meetings, 7 p.m. on the second Mon. of St. Philip’s peratures characterize call 874-2988 for information. the month at the SNO Episcopal Church Wrangell’s climate. Summer, Building. 874-3208. No meet- Sunday School & Holy which generally begins in May ings May - Aug. Eucharist 11 a.m.; Wed., Holy and runs through August, usual- RGANIZATIONS Alaska Native Brotherhood Eucharist 6:30 p.m.; Summer O ly is the dry season (by Camp No. 4 Schedule, June - Aug.: Sunday Wrangell’s fraternal and Wrangell standards) with pleas- Meetings held at the SNO Service 9:30 a.m., 874-3047, community groups welcome ant daytime temperatures aver- Building on Front St. at vary- 874-3665. visiting members. While a few aging in the 60s Fahrenheit. ing times. First Presbyterian Church of the organizations listed Temperatures exceeding 80 Wrangell Cooperative Sunday Class 9:45 a.m., below meet year-round, some degrees are uncommon. Fall in Association Worship Service 11:00 a.m. do not meet during June, July Wrangell usually is rainy and 6:30 p.m. First Mon. of the June - Aug.; Sunday Worship and August. often windy. Winter often month at the SNO Building. 10:00 a.m. 874-3534 Nettie brings some snow, with temper- Hospital Auxiliary Covalt, CLP. 874-2779 Elks Lodge 1595 atures generally in the 20s and 1 p.m. on the third Fri. of the The Salvation Army 7:30 p.m. first and third Wed. 30s, although the wind can be month, downstairs in the hos- Sunday School 10 a.m., of the month at the Elks Hall biting. Zero degree readings are pital conference room. No Worship 11 a.m.,Fellowship on Front Street. 874-3716. rare. Average yearly rainfall is meetings Jun. - Aug. Meal, 12:30 p.m., Mon., Bible Emblem Club No. 87 about 80 inches. Study 5 p.m., Wed., Family 6:30 p.m. second and fourth National Weather Service: Dinner Night 5 p.m., 874- Mon. of the month at the Elks WRANGELL Local and area forecasts 24 3753 Hall. June - Aug: Meeting first hours a day at 162.40 MHz on Island of Faith Mon. in June only. ON THE WEB VHF-FM, or by phoning 874- Lutheran Church Lions Club To access information about 3232. Observation station at Sunday Worship Service 9:30 First Mon. of the month at the the town and its environs, airport. a.m. followed by fellowship, Fireview Room Call Carol at check out the Website at 874-2743 Rev. Marjorie 874-2842 for info. www.wrangell.com. Making Lorant Chamber of Commerce travel plans? Many charter SUBSCRIBE TO THE Church of Jesus Christ Board of Directors: First Tues. services, lodgings and mer- of Latter-Day Saints of the month at noon. General chants in town have their own Sunday School 11 a.m., membership: Third Thurs. at home pages (accessible from Sunday Sacrament meeting 10 noon at the Fireview Room of Wrangell’s) on which you can Oldest continuously published a.m., Priesthood/Relief the Stikine Inn. Call 874-3901 read about their services, and newspaper in Alaska Society & Primary at noon, American Legion Merlin even leave e-mail to ask ques- 874-3976 Branch President Elmer PalmerPost 6 tions or make reservations. Est. November 20, 1902 David Wilson. 2:00 p.m. second and fourth The Chamber of Commerce’s CALL 907-874-2301 for rates or email: [email protected] Wrangell Community Thurs. of the month at the website is: Page 6 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 By air or sea, getting here is part of the fun Even though there are no eral times a week. September, about 10 a.m. and Juneau, Haines and Skagway, roads to Wrangell, it’s easy to The Alaska Airlines jet leaving northbound about with routes to Hoonah, get here. flies north from Seattle and 10:30 a.m. The southbound Tenakee, Kake, Angoon, The town is served by Ketchikan each day, arriving flight from Anchorage via Metlakatla and daily jet service, charter in Wrangell in the summer, Juneau arrives at about 6:20 Stewart/Hyder. planes, and state ferries sev- from mid-May to mid- p.m. and leaves for The local state ferry termi- Ketchikan about 6:50 pm.. nal and dock is on Stikine Call 1-800-426-0333 for Avenue, one block north of information, or the local sta- the Stikine Inn and down- Everything under the sun tion at (907) 874-3308. town. Recorded information Sunrise Aviation, also on arrivals and departures is for your outdoor activities located at the airport, offers available 24-hours a day at charter flight and sightseeing (907) 874-3711. For informa- and all under two roofs! services. For more information on office hours, call tion, call (907) 874-2319. (907) 874-2021. For reserva- Wrangell Airport has a tions from anywhere in the paved runway and taxi area, U.S., call toll free 1-800-642- and navigational aids for use 0066. when cloud cover gets heavy. The state ferry system was It’s located 1.5 miles north of recognized recently as an town, and there are taxis and official “Scenic Byway,” the rental cars available. only one in the United States State ferries on the Alaska where the automobiles get to Marine Highway System ride as well. 104 Front Street (AMHS) service Wrangell In spring of 2012 another northbound from option, the Rainforest Islands  Clothing, outdoor gear and raingear Bellingham, Wash., Prince Ferry, will also provide trans-  Gear for fishing, hunting, camping & backpacking Rupert, B.C., and Ketchikan, portation from Wrangell to  Marine supplies & paint Alaska. AMHS vessels also Prince of Wales Island and  Fishing and hunting licenses serve Petersburg, Sitka, Petersburg.  Complete line of hardware  Toys, gifts, housewares, appliances  True Value paint  Pet supplies  Lawn & garden supplies SSttiikkiinnee DDrruugg Ottesen’s COSMETICS, GIFTS, CARDS, PERFUMES YANKEE CANDLES & LOTIONS Box 81, Wrangell, AK 99929 WRANGELL POSCARDS (907) 874-3377 • 1-800-974-3375 www.ottesenstruevalue.com

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED 202 FRONT STREET WWW.STIKINEDRUG.COM 13th Front Street WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 7 So many choices, so little time: how to pick a charter operator • Plan early - most charter operators are booked many trate on small groups. months in advance for key vacation dates. • Ages of persons in your party - find out if trips can be • Send for a brochure - most operators have them and paced for elderly or handicapped persons, and what ages of chil- many include photos of the boat and descriptions of available dren are welcome. trips. • What to bring - some operators furnish gear that others • Keep in mind: the size of your party - some operators don’t, and they can tell you what type of clothes to wear for your can accommodate larger parties while some prefer to concen- greatest comfort.

PAID ADVERTISING Directory of Coast Guard - Licensed Charter Boat Services

Wrangellʼs Coast Guard-licensed charter boat operators observe safe boating practices and know the local area best - what to see and what to do. From fishing excursions to sightseeing trips to freight hauling, they can meet all your boat charter needs.

Sightseeing, Harbor tours, OPERATOR Stikine River Stikine River Fishing Anan Fishing photography Freight historic sites, Water P. O. box number (zip is 99929) sightseeing overnight overnight Bear day trips glaciers, hauling old town, Taxi Phone No. (area code is 907) day trips (camping) (on board) Observatory pleasure etc. Alaska A-1 Adventures Box 2107, 874-3499 XX XX XXX 1-888-385-2488 (toll free) Alaska Charters & Adventures Box 1996 XXXXXX XXX 874-4157, cell 470-4000 Alaska Peak & Seas Licensed Hunting Guide XXXXXX XXX Box 362, 874-2454, cell 470-3200 Alaska Vistas Box 2245 1-866-874-3006 (toll free) XX XX XXX Alaska Waters Box 1978 874-2378, 1-800-347-4462 XXX XX XXX Aqua Sports Box 681 XX XX XXX 874-3811 or 874-3061 Breakaway Adventures Box 2107, 874-2488 1-888-385-2488 (toll free) XXX XX XXX

Stickeen Wilderness Adventures Inc. XX XX XXX Box 934, 1-800-874-2085 (toll free)

Summit Charters Box 2076, 305-0416 XXXXX XX www.summitcharters.com Page 8 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Stikine River: highway, larder, playground, wilderness The fastest-flowing naviga- ble river in North America, and one of the few remaining free- flowing rivers, the Stikine (pro- nounced “Stick EEN,” meaning “great river”) runs 330 miles through British Columbia and the Alaska mainland to its delta, just a few miles NW of Wrangell. A favorite camping, fishing, A harbor seal takes refuge in an iceberg; the ice- hunting and boating area for bergs break off LeConte glacier and can sometimes residents and visitors alike, the be found floating at the mouth of the Stikine. Stikine offers magnificent Sealions gather on Lesnoi Island in the spring scenery, with unparalleled Those who wish to experi- stream. waiting for the Hooligan run. views of glaciers, ice fields and ence this beauty should come One of the Canyon is Telegraph Creek, mountains. prepared for a real wilderness most spectacular features of the population approx. 300, the In 1980, when Congress adventure. river is the 55-mile long Grand only town along the Stikine, passed the Alaska National The Stikine empties into the Canyon of the Stikine, about established by the Tahltan peo- Interest Lands Conservation Pacific Ocean just five miles 200 miles upstream from ple. Rafters, kayakers and Act. (ANILCA), the 449,951- north of Wrangell, but the river Wrangell. Canyon walls are as canoeists use the town as a start- acre Stikine-LeConte begins its 330-mile –long jour- high as 1,000 feet. ing point for exciting, scenic Wilderness was created, sur- ney deep inside British Just south of the Grand trips downriver to Wrangell. rounding the Alaskan portion of Columbia at peaceful headwa- Canyon is Mount Edziza The high peaks of the Coast the river. ters in Spatsizi Wilderness Park. Provincial Park and Recreation Mountains up to 10,000 feet, Roaring rapids and unique Grizzly bear, caribou, Area – one of the most signifi- tower over the river. Glaciers landscapes are among the many moose, and mountain goat roam cant volcanic areas of Canada. hang from high mountain val- attractions found by following the tranquil rolling tableland in No eruptions have been official- leys. The river winds between the Stikine River into interior this area, which is surrounded ly recorded, but legends of forested shores and wide British Columbia. Relatively by vast mountains. Native people living in the area expanses of sand and log few people have seen the spec- The alpine tundra along the indicate that volcanic activity deposits past connecting river tacular mountains, canyons, gla- upper reaches of the Stikine took place within the last centu- outlets and cascading waterfalls, cier, forests and wildlife of this gradually gives way to a thick ry. through incredibly untamed area. spruce forest farther down At the west end of the Grand country where visitors enjoy camping, fishing, hunting, and exploring. The Stikine crosses the border into Alaska for the last 30 miles of its run. Many Wrangell residents pilot their boats across the Stikine delta - not an easy feat, since the delta is laced with tricky sandbars – to explore the side sloughs of the river, picnic on sandy beaches or visit other favorite spots. Several Wrangell charter boat operators offer trips on the Stikine, including roundtrips to Telegraph Creek, B. C. Inquire with individual advertisers or with the Chamber of Commerce or museum staff. See our Charter Boat listing on page 7. WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 9 Stikine River highlights, places to play and relax

One way to see the Stikine River is by small plane. This view of the braided channels at the lower end of the river was taken in the spring, before the flats turn green and the channels have lost all their ice. Small plane is also one of two ways to reach Telegraph Creek, British Columbia, the other being via jet boat. Other favorite Stikine destinations - Garnet Ledge, Chief Shakes Hot Springs and Twin Lakes - are also all accessible via jet boat..

GARNET LEDGE Wrangell into the Canadian interior. Planes also fly this route. At the edge of the river delta, near a U. S. Forest Service pub- Visitors get a first-hand look at a historic Gold Rush town lic recreation cabin, a trail leads to a 38-acre garnet mine where with many buildings remaining from that era, including the for- local children mine the garnets, which they then sell to visitors. mer Hudson’s Bay Company store, which is on the Canadian The mine was deeded to the Boy Scouts of America in 1962 and Heritage Building listing. There are opportunities for walking, Southeast children are the only ones allowed to remove garnets, hiking, fishing, and camping. Telegraph Creek also offers a land using only hand tools. However, the Garnet Ledge is currently link into Canada. Just 70 miles to the NE is Dease Lake and the closed until further notice. The title was later passed to the Cassiar Highway, which crosses the “Grand Canyon,” one of Presbyterian Church. Please contact the Presbyterian Church for British Columbia’s most infamous river canyons, by bridge. more information. CHIEF SHAKES HOT SPRINGS Located 28 miles NW of Wrangell, up the Stikine River by boat, this is one of the more popular recreational destinations for local residents. One covered and one open-air tub provide com- fortable places for a hot soak. There are dressing rooms, benches and outhouses, but no overnight accommodations. Expect large crowds on weekends, holidays and sunny days throughout the summer. High river level at Ketili Slough is required for easiest access, but a .3-mile trail (easy to moderate) off Hot Springs Slough provides access at lower water levels. TWIN LAKES When the river is high enough to allow access to these lakes, they are a favorite summer recreation spot for water skiing, jet skiing, picnicking and swimming. At the entrance to Twin Lakes Slough, the Forest Service has a public recreation cabin available for rent. There is also a trail leading from the cabin to the lakes. TELEGRAPH CREEK, BRITISH COLUMBIA Much farther afield, and a trip back in time, is an excursion up the Stikine River to Telegraph Creek, 160 miles from Page 10 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Muskeg Meadows, Southeast’s only regulation golf course

Wrangell is the site of range will keep you out of the Southeast Alaska’s first regula- rain while working on your slice tion 9-hole golf course, Muskeg or hook. Meadows. And on sunny days, there’s The fairways are long and no nicer place for a walk – and wide and there is a covered driv- few prettier courses. Visible ing range and an eight-station over and between the trees are practice putting green available spectacular ocean views, with for free use. forested and snow-capped Wrangell Golf Club has islands beyond. Keep an eye out hosted many “Best Ball for bald eagles overhead, too, Scrambles” and other tourna- and be aware that a few local ments, drawing contestants black bear also like to wander from around Southeast Alaska the course. and the Lower 48 states. Located on Ishiyama Drive Hard-core players may want near the airport, the course is to come out whatever the entirely the work of volunteers, weather. The covered driving with much of the equipment and

Muskeg Meadows is Southeast Alaska’s first regulation 9- hole golf course. materials donated by Alaska Japan. The club has established Pulp Corporation, which until a “Raven Rule” that provides if 296 CAMPBELL DRIVE, WRANGELL, ALASKA 1994 operated Wrangell’s a raven steals your ball you may sawmill, Ketchikan Pulp replace it with no penalty pro- THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR HOSTING Corporation, and Silver Bay vided you have a witness. CIVIC EXECUTIVE RETREATS, CONVENTIONS, Logging. There are golf clubs and pull BANQUETS & SPECIAL OCCASIONS Membership currently carts available for rental at the CENTER stands at over 450, with 65% of course. If interested in playing a Convention Hall • Meeting Rooms • Video Theater the members from Southeast round while you’re visiting Classrooms • Warming Kitchen Alaska. The Club does however Wrangell, call Muskeg 907-874-3699 or 1-800-367-9745 boast members from all across Meadows at 874-4653 or con- the states and several foreign tact the Wrangell Chamber of For information email: [email protected] countries including Canada and Commerce at 1-800-367-9745. VISITOR VISITOR INFORMATION FOR LOCAL SERVICES, ATTRACTIONS FishWrangell.com CENTER AND LOCAL ACTIVITIES Phone 907-874-3699, email: [email protected] • Guided fishing with lite tackle in fresh & salt water WRANGELL MUSEUM • Fishing: July 1 - August 31 • Flyfishing, Jigs & Spinners Presenting the Culture, Heritage and People of Wrangell, Alaska • Trolling & Deep Sea Fishing New Interactive Exhibits, Gift Store Alaska Resident Marlin E. Benedict Summer Hours: May 1 - September 30 Licensed Guide and Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm Fishing Instructor Cell work # 209-2190 P.O. Box 1050, Wrangell, AK 99929 or (907) 874-2590 E-Mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 907-874-3770 Fax: 907-874-3785 Web site: www.fishwrangell.com WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 11 Nolan Center, a community gathering place Since its opening in 2004, the James and Elsie Nolan Center has become a well- established part of the community and town skyline. Housed within the Nolan Center are the Wrangell Museum, the Wrangell Convention Center, the Wrangell Visitor Center, and Castle Mountain Theater. The museum features a chronological history of Wrangell and the Stikine River. Exhibits feature the natural environment, Native culture, the fur trade, military presence, the gold rushes and mining, churches and schools, fishing, logging and 20th Century history. In addition, there is a central area that allows for a three to five minute video highlighting The Nolan Center and Museum is truly a multi-use facility, housing the museum, civic cen- these topics. There are also ter, convention and visitors bureau, and theater. audio, video and hands-on components at various stations not currently on display. Also, Representatives from the A small theater next to the in the exhibit area. Over 250 the museum’s extensive art United States Forest Service Visitors Center has seating for photos from the museum col- collection will be featured in will also be in the Visitors twenty-four. The large theater lection, which number in the the lobby area. Center on days when a boat is seats two hundred in a stadi- tens of thousands, have been Upon entering the Nolan in town. um-style setup. selected for display. Many of Center, visitors will see the the museum’s three-dimen- original Chief Shakes House sional artifacts are also used, houseposts. Further into the as well as several borrowed lobby are two totems over- INVITES YOU TO artifacts that help with the looking a replica of the FLIGHT-SEE interpretations of different Stikine River Delta inlaid on THE STIKINE aspects of Wrangell’s rich his- the floor. Overhead, an tory. advanced lighting system dis- RIVER AND In addition to the current plays the northern lights on LeCONTE exhibits in the main gallery, the ceiling. GLACIER the museum’s storage is also The Visitor’s Center houses available for viewing through an interactive map of the • Charter Service to Telegraph Creek, B.C. a window in the back of the island and Stikine River Delta. for Stikine River Float Trips main gallery. This is to allow Here visitors can also find • Transportation to all U. S. Forest Service visitors to view the artifacts maps, brochures, and photos. Cabins and Anan Wildlife Observatory • Custom Charters

Call us for all your air charter needs Float & wheelplane services throughout the Alaska Panhandle & Canada LOCATED AT THE AIRPORT ROBERT S. PRUNELLA (907) 874-3975 OWNER At Wrangell Airport • (907) 874-2319, FAX 2546 Free Shuttle Service P.O. Box 432, Wrangell, AK 99929 Cell Ph (907) 305-0270 to downtown Email:[email protected] 1-800-874-2311 Page 12 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Hiking, camping, sightseeing and enjoying the island Wrangell offers many sce- Strait. A trail leads up the hill nic spots for picnicking and from downtown. Go up to camping, from City Park and Third Street behind the high Shoemaker Bay near town, to school, or up McKinnon Street Nemo Point and Salamander to the set of stairs leading up Creek campsites, further out. to Reid Street, veer left and CITY PARK follow the residential street Located about one mile until it becomes a narrow dirt south of downtown on road. A sign points the way to Zimovia Highway, the water- the trail. front park is adjacent to an his- VOLUNTEER TRAIL toric cemetery and an old For a short, but pleasant baseball field now in use as walk near town, head for the Community Garden. Evergreen Elementary School There are picnic tables, and the baseball fields behind shelters and restrooms. it. Taking either the route Camping, in tents only, is between the two fields or restricted to 24 hours. north past the tennis courts, a Camping is not allowed inside gravel trail meanders through the shelters, and overnight the muskeg with interpretive parking is prohibited. Call the signs pointing out particular Pool at 874-2444 for informa- flora and fauna, as well as tion. occasional benches to rest on, City Park catches the last rays of a sunny summer day. It is Bicyclists will want to take compliments of the U.S. a popular place for picnics. advantage of the 4 miles of Forest Service. paved bike trail along Zimovia SHOEMAKER BAY trailer campers – 15 with elec- Shoemaker Harbor parking Strait. Shoemaker Bay RV Park is tricity, 10 without. All sites lot. MOUNT DEWEY located about five miles south have excellent views of Sites with electrical power Located right behind down- of town, along Zimovia Zimovia Strait and neighbor- are $25 a night; those without town, this large tree covered Highway. ing Woronkofski Island. A are $15. Call 874-2444 for hill is a quick hike for a fine The park offers 25 sites fresh water pump is located information, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. view of Wrangell and Zimovia open exclusively to RV and near the entrance to Monday through Friday. Facilities are on a first-come, first-served bases; no reservations taken. A holding tank dumpsite for RVs has been installed in the harbor parking lot. There are also restrooms and a dumpster. A tent camping area is located in a wooded spot near a creek. South of the creek is a tennis court, restrooms and picnic shelter. Tent campers should use the desig- nated camping area only. Inquire at City Hall at 874- 2381 or Parks and Rec at 874- 2444 for tent camping rules. RAINBOW FALLS TRAIL Moderate to Difficult Just across Zimovia Highway from the Shoemaker See Hiking, page 13 WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 13 Hiking, continued

Continued from page 12 Trailhead via Rainbow Falls and Institute Creek Trails. Bay camping areas is Trail leads 1.3 miles to the Rainbow Falls Trail, which High Country Shelter and con- offers a self-guided hike tinues another 1.0 mile to the through pristine Southeast Pond Shelter. Shelters are Alaska rainforest. A little less three-sided with picnic table than a mile up the trail is a and outhouse. Optional start- beautiful view of Rainbow ing point is from the trailhead Falls; a tenth of a mile later, at the parking area on the Spur the trail ends above the water- Road Extension, approximate- fall and provides spectacular ly 3.6 miles from the intersec- views of Chichagof Pass, tion of Bennett Street and the Zimovia Strait and surround- beginning of Ishiyama Drive ing islands. Viewing platforms (Spur Road). This trail is sur- and bench seating make this a faced with boardwalk. great place for a picnic. The PATS LAKE Pats Lake is a favorite place to canoe in the summer or ice- trail intersects with Institute Pats Lake recreation area is skate in the winter. Creek Trail. located 11 miles south of INSTITUTE CREEK downtown Wrangell, at a TRAIL crossroads where dirt roads Difficult to Most Difficult branch off Zimovia Highway. If you choose to continue The first road to the left goes from the Rainbow Falls Trail, by Pats Lake, while the second this trek offers many scenic turn-off leads to Pats Creek. views from another 2.7 miles There’s pleasant hiking along (and a total 1,500-foot gain in an easy mile-long trail from elevation) on the way to Pats Lake, which follows Pats Shoemaker Bay Overlook. Creek as it empties into the SHOEMAKER BAY sea. Several varieties of trout OVERLOOK SHELTER are found in the lake and creek. There’s a three sided shel- The creek also has a fall ter, picnic table, fire grill and salmon run. outhouse, as well as excellent The turn off to the right view of Shoemaker Bay leads down to a log dump on Harbor, Zimovia Strait, and the water. A short walk north surrounding islands. on the beach leads to a sandy NORTH WRANGELL point, which is good for pic- TRAIL nicking or a little seaside Difficult to Most Difficult relaxation as well as an occa- This trail begins 2.2 miles sional haunt of local saltwater from the Rainbow Falls fly fishermen.

PALMER GRADUATE

DR. MICHAEL TODD SMITH CHIROPRACTOR P.O. BOX 1651 WRANGELL, AK 99929 M, T, W, F 11:30 am - 1:30 pm & 4 - 6 pm OFFICE PHONE 109 LYNCH STREET (907) 874-3361 WRANGELL Page 14 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Traveling to Canada, it’s close but requires a stop at customs Anyone interested in visit- Anyone visiting another instances it is possible to take ing Alaska’s nearest neighbor, country (yes, Canada is near, the tours on a shorter notice, Canada, may do so if they have but still a foreign country) must depending on Canadian a few hours to spend on a spec- be cleared through customs. Customs schedule. tacularly scenic and enjoyable Twenty four hours notice is There are no customs trip. Local jet boat operators generally required by Canadian requirements necessary for a and Sunrise Aviation will trans- Customs, and can be done in flight over the Canadian bor- port visitors on relaxing tours advance by calling the compa- der if no landing takes place of the Stikine River, Canadian ny that you will be using (see there. mountains and scenery, and Charter Boat Listing on page Call American Customs at stop in Telegraph Creek, B.C. 20), giving each your birth date 874-3415 when returning to One way to get into Canada for a visit if time allows. and nationality. In some Wrangell. is via small airplane. Bobs’

GROCERIES - A full line of groceries, LIQUOR - A complete selection of liquor, quality meats and fresh produce. wine, beer and quality cigars. DELI - The place to stop for delicious NON-FOODS - Including health and beauty snacks and meals. Fresh-made aids, and housewares. sandwiches, hot soups and chili, CUSTOMER SERVICE COUNTER - soft frozen yogurt and espresso. Featuring video rentals, post cards, BAKERY - Featuring delicious breads postage stamps, money orders, digital and pastries. picture printing and more.

Located Downtown on Campbell Drive next to the Museum Phone: 874-2341 WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 15

25. Sunrise Aviation

24. Muskeg Meadows

North End Wrangell Island Map courtesy of US Forest Service

See pages 16 &17 for downtown map 23. Alaska Waters RV Park and more business locations. Page 16 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011

Wrangell Business Directory - Downtown Wrangell Business Listings - This map is presented as a public service by the following 24 businesses advertised in the Wrangell Guide 25

H 1. Fennimore’s B&B, 312 Stikine Ave., Box 957, 874-3012 J 2. Stikine Inn and Restaurant, 105 Stikine Ave., G Box 662, 874-3388 F E T 22 3. Alaska Waters, 107 Stikine Ave., Box 1978, 874-2378 23 4. Alaska Vistas, Java Junkie, Stickeen Wilderness Adventures, Box 934 WVG, 874-2085 I 5. Angerman’s Inc., 2 Front St., Box 928, 874-3640 r rbo 6. Buness Bros., 64 Front St., Box 681, 874-3811 D Ha er 7. Rooney’s Roost, 206 McKinnon St., 874-2026 Inn 8. Ottesen’s, 104 Front St., Box 81, 874-3377 9. Totem Bar & Liquor, 116 Front St., Box 499, 874-3533 T 10. Wells Fargo, 115 Front St., Box 261, 874-3341 18 19 11. Smith Chiropractic, 109 Lynch St., Box 1651, 874-3361 T t 21 loa 12. Stikine Drug, 202 Front St., Box 471, 874-3422 20 F ce 13. Wrangell Sentinel, n 205 Front St., Box 798, 874-2301 R lia 14. Wrangell Chamber of Commerce, 224 Front St., R Re Box 49, 874-3901 R 14 15. Diamond C Cafe, 215 Front St., Box 274, 874-3677 15 17 16. Bobs’ IGA, 223 Brueger St., Box 21, 874-2341 C T 16 17. Nolan Center/Museum, 296 Campbell Drive, 12 13 Box 1050, 874-3770 B 18. G&G Alaska, 118 St. Michael’s St., Box 11, 874-3950 11 19. Sentry Hardware & Marine, 408 Front St., 9 10 Box 1139, 874-3336 8 20. City Market, 423 Front St., Box 140, 874-3333 7 21. Bay Co., 441 Front St., Box 797, 874-3340 R 6 22. The Haystack, 1002 Case, Box 431, 874-3648 R 5 T 4 See map on page 15 for the following businesses 3 ~ Wrangell Churches ~ 23. Alaska Waters RV Park, 241 Berger St., Box 1978, A 2 874-2378 A. Island of Faith Lutheran Church-ELCA 24. Muskeg Meadows Golf Course, Ishyama Drive, B. St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church 874-4653 C. First Presbyterian Church D. St. Philip’s Episcopal Church 25. Sunrise Aviation, Wrangell Airport, Box 432, 1 874-2319 E. Wrangell Community Church of God F. Wrangell Seventh-day Adventist Church G. The Salvation Army R = Public Restrooms H. Harbor Light Assembly of God I. Bible Baptist Church Locations of Totems J. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints T = See page 5 for worship times, addresses & phone numbers WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 17

Wrangell Business Directory - Downtown Wrangell Business Listings - This map is presented as a public service by the following 24 businesses advertised in the Wrangell Guide 25

X US Forest Service Cabin

Middle Ridge Cabin X WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 19 U.S. Forest Service cabins, a great weekend escape Imagine unwinding in a quaint little log cabin in the solitude of a vast forest, beside a lake, river, or seashore, experiencing nature at its best. If you’re prepared to give up some of the bene- fits of civilization and enjoy a simpler way of life for a few days, you can do just that by reserving a Forest Service cabin. The Forest Service has more than 125 public use cabins throughout the Tongass National Forest, with 22 in the Wrangell Ranger district. Most of the cabins are in remote areas and are primari- ly used for hunting, fishing and recreation. Inland cabins are usually accessible only by airplane, while those on saltwater beaches can be reached by boat or float plane, depending on tides. The Wrangell Ranger District has its first road- PHOTO COURTESY OF US FOREST SERVICE accessible cabin on Middle The Middle Ridge Cabin is the Wrangell Ranger District’s first road accessible cabin. The Ridge (see map on page 18). cabin is about 20 miles outside of town and is accessible to high clearance vehicles in the The cabin was dedicated in summer and snow machine, snowshoe and ski in the winter. June of 2010. A $25-$35 per night cabin fee is charged, regardless of the number of occupants. The E LL HOW OU HE TIKINE fee must be paid in advance W ’ S Y T S at the time the user reserves a cabin. The experience of a lifetime Use of a cabin is limited to a maximum of seven consec- Glacier Tours • River Running utive days between April 1 Photography Excursions and October 21, and to 10 consecutive days the rest of Scenic Trips • Anan Observatory the year. Half-day and day-long outings! Detailed information on (longer trips can be arranged) all area cabins is available at the Wrangell Forest Service office, located at 525 Bennett AQUA SPORTS St. The phone number is Terry Buness, USCG Licensed (907) 874-2323, or for reser- P.O. Box 681, Wrangell, AK 99929 vations call 877-444-6777 or (907) 874-3811 (days), 874-3061 (evenings) log on to the website www.recreation.gov. Page 20 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Petroglyph Beach, a mystery and puzzle from the past No visit to Wrangell is and used for rubbings. complete without seeing the Rubbings made on the origi- ancient carvings on nal rocks on the beach are dis- Petroglyph Beach, a State couraged as years of erosion Historic Site. and abrasion have taken their To reach the picturesque toll. Visitors are asked to help beach from the state ferry ter- preserve the original carvings minal (it’s about a 20 minute for future generations. walk), turn left on Evergreen There are steps leading Avenue, walk north about a down to the beach for closer mile and watch for a sign and inspection of the ancient carv- small parking area with a ings and enjoying the local gravel road to the left, heading seashore. The best time for down to the beach. The Alaska this is at low tide. State Park Service recently No one – neither Native built a wheelchair-accessible people, nor archaeologists – viewing platform where pet- knows for sure who carved roglyph replicas can be seen the petroglyphs or why.

One of the original petroglyphs in its natural place SentrySentry HardwareHardware && MarineMarine on Petroglyph Beach. Carbon-14 dating is ineffec- tive, and dating by use of nearby organic substances Got A Question... isn’t feasible because the Need A Hand? rocks are located on an active beach. Former U.S. Forest Service archaeologist Larry Roberts believes the petroglyphs were probably carved by early Stikine Tlingits possibly 1,000 years ago. The late Tlingit Elder, Dick Stokes, concurs. However, archaeological finds elsewhere in Southeast Alaska Across from the Boatyard Haul Out show that man was present 408 FRONT ST. here more than 8,000 years • COMMERCIAL & SPORT ago, so the rock carvings TOLL-FREE could be far older. FISHING GEAR & LICENSES Some of the petroglyphs • HARDWARE & TOOLS IN ALASKA have been removed to the • HOUSEWARES • TOYS 800-478-3334 museum and the library and can be viewed there. • MARINE SUPPLIES Please do not damage the • MARINE HYDRAULICS P.O. BOX 1139 carvings or take any of the • LAWN & GARDEN SUPPLIES rocks home with you. They are WRANGELL, treasured landmarks to the • SPORTING GOODS people of Wrangell, and are ALASKA 99929 Mail orders given prompt attention! protected from loss, desecra- tion, and destruction under the (907) 874-3336 Alaska Historic Preservation Act of 1971. WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 21 Walking tour of Wrangell and its historic buildings

Wrangell has many historic houses) and enjoy a fine view are no mailboxes on city number of buildings date from and fascinating places to see of Zimovia Strait as you go. streets, so if you want to mail a the late 1800s and early 1900s. during your visit. The There’s an informational sign letter or postcard, this is where All the historical buildings are Wrangell Walking Tour is on the walkway as you near to do it.) on the left side of the street, designed for an easy 45- town, naming the visible At the Stikine Inn (where because a fire at the beginning minute stroll. You’ll probably islands, and telling the story of cruise ship passengers will of the 1900s and another in want to allow extra time for “Elephant’s Nose,” a local start their walk from City 1952 burned all the structures browsing in shops, visiting the landmark. Dock) turn onto the town’s and docks that used to exist on Museum, or stopping some- One block will bring you to main street – Front Street. the waterside: that area is now where to eat. the Stikine Inn, a blue two- Many famous people from his- occupied by buildings con- To get into town from the story building, which also tory have stepped off ships and structed on fill. ferry terminal, locate the houses the Stikine Inn onto this dock and down Front Note the historical plaques weathered wooden Restaurant, The Parlor and Street, such as Wyatt Earp, affixed to the buildings: the “Wrangell” sign, near the Alaska Waters gift shop. John Muir, and President edge of the parking lot, with its Uphill, to your left, is the Post Harding to name a few. A good See Walking tour, page 22 history of the town, and the Office, dating from about Forest Service sign with its 1940. This was the original site information about cabins and of Fort Wrangell and Customs bears. Follow the narrow one- Office in the late 1800s. There lane road south (it looks like an is an excellent totem on the alley between small wooden front lawn. (You’ll notice there

A view of Front Street from the late 1800’s. The building in the foreground is now the Greif/Stough Building (1898), but was formerly the Fort Wrangell Brewery Beer Hall. This view is looking northwest along Front Street. Page 22 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Walking tour, continued Continued from page 21 currently between tenants; the from the Stikine Drug) you’ll Hardware and City Market Uhler/Nolan Building (1913) see the one-story brown build- grocery store, you will see M a t h e s o n / A n g e r m a n ’s which houses Stikine Drug; ing with a large Native design Totem Park to the left. The Building (c. 1907); the the Engstrom/Taylor on the side, housing the City Kiks.adi (also called the Grant/Buness Building with Building; the Waters/Phillips Hall. Nearby is a picnic area Kahlteen) Totem at the front of its two parts dating from 1906 Building (1922) which now with a fine view of the harbor, the park, and the other three and 1927, which used to house features Jerry’s Arcade; the and public restrooms to the totems farther back, along the the Pioneer Hotel; the Jenkins/Hofstad Building right, behind the Elks Lodge. gravel paths, are painstakingly Patenaude/Grant Building (1934) which houses Take a short excursion now carved replicas of totems that with its six-sided shingled tur- Wrangell Insurance; the along Outer Drive Loop, once stood throughout the ret, which served as the center Biehl Building (1898); and the behind Bobs’ IGA supermar- community. Note the church at for city government between Grant/Wilcox Building ket, to the home of the James the top of the hill. Your tour 1907 and 1911; the (c1910) on the west side of and Elsie Nolan Center, will take you past it later. Campbell/Ottesen (1934), a Front Street. Wrangell’s museum and con- Front Street ends at the cor- hardware store incorporating Across the street from vention center. Leaving the ner of Case Avenue and Shakes the old Fire Hall from 1912; Stikine Drug, you’ll see the museum area, and continuing Street, near the blue building Wheeler/Angerman, (now office of the Wrangell on past First Bank, you will called Rayme’s Bar. Angle off the Totem Bar), built in 1908; Sentinel, Alaska’s longest con- again meet Front Street. to the right at the “Y” and soon the Greif/Stough Building tinuously published newspa- (Practical matters: The you will pass Churchill’s (1898), formerly the Fort per. Looking toward the water- Wells Fargo Bank on Front Laundramat, Kassinger’s Wrangell Brewery Beer Hall, front on Lynch Street (across Street houses a 24-hour ATM. Creations and the Marine Another ATM machine Bar on the left. The Marine belonging to First Bank is Bar is located on the site of also located on the side of the Fort St. Dionysius, built by Diamond Cafe & First Bank building.) the Russian American C Continuing along Front Diamond Hotel Street just past Sentry See Walking tour, page 24

• Located in the heart of downtown Frommer’s Recommended near grocery stores, museum & shops • Private entrance, T.V., private baths in each room • Open for breakfast and lunch daily • Access to wireless internet • Coffee, tea and microwave in lobby • Open year round Diamond C Coffee Shop Next door to the cafe, serving quality ONLY TOUR BOAT WITH A MARINE RESTROOM ON BOARD! AnAn Bear Observatory Tours R.V. Park & Island Tours espresso drinks, teas, and blended Stikine River & Glacier Tours River Safaris to drinks. Stikine Delta Birding Tours Telegraph Creek, BC LeConte Glacier & Petersburg Water Taxi Service Hotel Visitor Information Gift Shop Cell 907-305-0292 FREE wi-fi for RV park guests ph 907-874-3322 24 hour courtesy phone in the lobby of the Stikine Inn Cafe 107 Stikine Avenue Open: Mon. - Fri. 8 am to 5 pm & ph 907-874-3677 Sun. 1 pm to 4 pm Call 907-874-2378 • 1-800-347-4462 www.alaskawaters.com Email: [email protected] Guiding You Through Our Ancestral Lands...TM 223 Front Street, Wrangell, AK 99929 Look for the logo before you go! WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 23 Page 24 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Walking tour, continued Continued from page 22

Company in 1832 to keep “King George’s men” of the Hudson’s Bay Company from going up the Stikine River. Across from the bar is aTrident Seafoods cannery and cold storage. On the dock area is the Harbormaster’s Office on the right. A wooden walkway leads to Shakes Island across from the Harbormaster’s Office. Dating from 1840 to 1940, the island’s Tlingit tribal house and totems are maintained by the Wrangell Cooperative Association. The building, which is on the National Register of Historic Sites, is open at times during the summer months and for cruise ships, and offers an excellent chance to see first- hand a glimpse of the past and the items and lodgings of the early Tlingit people. A wonderful, peaceful oasis, the island affords a picturesque (and photogenic) view of the harbor. Half-log benches offer a restful place to sit and drink it all in. Up in the trees, watch for ravens and bald eagles, who seem to have adopted this place as their own private refuge. Returning from Shakes Island, retrace your steps to the “Y” at the Rayme’s Bar and turn right onto Case Avenue. Walking for a few minutes will take you to a sharp right bend after which you will pass a few Detail of carved house posts inside Chief Shakes House. houses on the left and a boat shop on the right. Across from the boat shop, up on a hill, is Church Street, where the Continuing on Church Wrangell until the city took it Chief Shake’s Grave. This Wrangell Baptist Church sits Street stands St. Philip’s over in the 1960s. The church site is nestled amongst ever- on a hill. Looking over to your Episcopal Church. Founded is listed on the National greens and salmonberry bush- right, on the next street over, by the Rev. H. P. Courser, a Register of Historic Places. es and is marked by two killer Zimovia Highway, you can noted figure in Wrangell histo- Church Street parts on the whale totems and a fence. spot the backs of the Salvation ry, the church was built by left at the next intersection Returning back toward Army Church and the local Native people in 1903. (turning right would take you town on Case Avenue, take the Harborlight Assembly of The Episcopal Church also first right heading up onto God. operated the first hospital in See Walking tour, page 25 WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 25 Walking tour, continued

Wrangell harbor’s Reliance Float, as viewed from Chief Shakes Island, on a calm summer evening.

Continued from page 24 Christian missionary and the stonework stairs and the Continue across the street to to Zimovia Highway, towards friend of the naturalist John lovely rose stained glass win- the Post Office, (which you the hospital, police depart- Muir. Another Presbyterian dow above the doorway. saw from the bottom of the hill ment and south highway). missionary, Amanda At the corner of Church earlier) a two story white stuc- Returning left, toward town, McFarland, arrived in 1878 to Street and McKinnon is the co building which served as you’ll see the studios of start a school for Native girls; Wrangell Senior Center, federal offices for many years. KSTK-FM (Radio Stikine: this was on the site of the pres- which offers hospitality and From here you can enjoy a 101.7 on the dial) and the blue- ent high school. The church lunches Mondays, spectacular view of Zimovia roofed Stikine Middle School has maintained a continuous Wednesdays, Thursdays and Strait. and Wrangell High School, ministry since its organization Fridays. Visitors are welcome. From the Post Office, go built in 1985, complete with a in August 1879. The lighted Call 874-2066 for information. back down the hill to Front swimming pool and exercise cross on the steeple is used as a The Irene Ingle Public Street and City Dock, or if rooms that are open to the beacon for fishermen at sea. Library, located behind the you’re going back to the state public. Two buildings down is St. Post Office, is named for its ferry terminal, continue walk- Continuing north on Rose of Lima Catholic former longtime librarian. The ing north from the Library. Church Street, you pass the Church, also established in library has an excellent collec- There, you’ve seen a good First Presbyterian Church, 1879, and the “First Catholic tion of Alaskana, current news- sample of Wrangell, but be the “Oldest Protestant Church Church in Alaska.” The church papers, magazines, as well as sure to visit the other interest- in Alaska” founded in 1879 by was established by Fathers C.J. computers and a friendly staff ing sights around the island if the Rev. S. Hall Young, a noted Seghers and J. Althoff. Note to serve you. time and energy permit. Page 26 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Wrangell’s totems reflect a rich native heritage Throughout Wrangell are power tools at the request of men were going to kill the reminders of the rich Native the descendents of the original frog. But they decided to wait culture that has contributed owners. until the chief returned. greatly to the community’s Kik.setti Totem When the chief returned, he growth. These totem poles are According to Totem Lore told the men not to kill the replications of the many of the Alaska Indian and the frog because the frog was con- totems that stood in Wrangell Land of the Totem by the Rev. sidered part of their family. when the Native village H.P. Corser, the Kik.setti Below the frog is the old thrived in the 1800s. totem contains symbols of the Raven, the Creator, according Kik.setti people, one clan of to legend. The old Raven is KIK.SETTI TOTEM PARK the Tlingit people who first talking to the young Raven The Kik.setti totem park on settled Wrangell Island. that made man. The lowest Front Street at the intersection This totem was erected in figure of all is the Killisnoo of Episcopal Street was creat- honor of Chief Kahlteen in beaver. ed in 1987 to conclude a major 1895. Kahlteen was head of Raven Totem totem restoration project the Wrangell Kik.setti clan. The Raven totem, which undertaken by the Wrangell Corser’s book says, “The originally stood at the site of Cultural Heritage Committee. pole is surmounted by a face the Baptist Church, depicts the Carvers Steve Brown and which represents a mountain. Raven Creator at the top. On Wayne Price used painstaking This mountain was the camp- older poles, this Raven precision to make certain this ing place on the Stikine River, Creator is represented as man. group of totems authentically where the legends of the tribe The hat is supposed to be a conveyed the artistic skills of were supposed to take place.” copy of one that the young the original carvers. The frog carved below the Raven saw in the house of the Detail from the ‘Keet’ totem The site of the totem park is face is the emblem of the tribe. old Raven, the Creator. at Kik.setti Totem Park the former home of the Sun Before the legendary great Beneath the Raven is a box, House and was the original flood, a young man committed said to be a chief’s box with Earth.” home of the first Kik.setti mischief to the frog. As a spiritual power. Such boxes The Keet Totem totem. The replicated totem result, the man was thrown were used in potlatch feasts. The Keet legend and totem was carved without the aid of into a trance and some clans- Below the box is the young were highly prized by local Raven. The young Raven is Tlingits. Keet, the Tlingit word represented as a raven with a for killer whale, is a strong, Wrangellʼs man between the wings to brave animal able to kill other Muskeg Meadows Golf Course show how Raven could whales. Muskeg Meadows Golf Course change to a man at will. The original totem in Below the young Raven is Wrangell was near the down- 9 hole scenic the daughter of the Creator town harbor, about where the regulation course and the mother of the young city’s fuel docks now are locat- with 250 yard Raven. The lowest figure on ed. A hole was located in the driving range the totem is Ha-ya-shon-a-gu, back, two board-covered cavi- described by Corser as “the Indian Atlas who holds up the See Totems, page 27

Pro Shop & Rentals Available (907) 874-GOLF P hoto by Alaska Pix www.wrangellalaskagolf.com WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 27 Totems, continued

Continued from page 26 wound. of your family, they will take they have been called ‘whale “I will heal the chief if you you to them; but if while there killers.” ties, where cremated remains provide a way for me to return you think of your evil brothers One-Legged Fisherman were kept. to my home and family,” said and of revenge, they will bring One-Legged Fisherman The totem’s legend says a the man when asked to heal the you back.” totem, originally located in the man was marooned on an seal chief. The man did as he was told Indian Cemetery on Cemetery island by his evil brothers. The seals agreed and the and the fish ultimately brought Point near the old ball field, While wandering over the chief was healed. The chief him home, where the fish relates the story of one of the island, he came to a door and then told the man to carve two killed the evil brothers. adventures of Kayak, a mytho- knocked. He was bidden to fish out of cedar and place “After this they were told logical Tlingit hero. It was enter, then found himself them in the water. not to kill anymore men – they erected in 1897 in memory of among the seals, whose chief “You get on their backs and were to only kill whales,” was sick from an arrow if, while there, you think only Corser said. “Hence ever since See Totems, page 28

PAID ADVERTISING - LOCAL BED & BREAKFAST - DIRECTORY All listings are non-smoking PROPERTY Phone No., Street Address Courtesy Private Private Meals Children Kitchenette Pets PO Box & Email Address Shuttle Bath Entrance Other Website

AVAʼS BED & BREAKFAST Fully One bedroom suite Yes Yes Cold Yes Equiped No 874-3142, #13 Crest Drive Breakfast Kitchen Internet Box 1482, [email protected]

DIAMOND “C” HOTEL 874-3322, 223 Front St. Yes Yes Attached Yes Microwave Call Ahead Box 110, [email protected] Restaurant & Fridge Hotel cell #907-305-0292 Available

FENNIMOREʼS B&B 874-3012, 312 Stikine Ave. Airport & Yes Yes Cold Yes Microwave Box 957, [email protected] Ferry Breakfast & Fridge efficiency www.fennimoresbbb.com Bikes too In Room apt. too

GRAND VIEW B&B 874-3225, 2 Mi Zimovia Hwy. Yes Yes Yes Hot Shared Box 927, [email protected] Breakfast Full www.GrandViewBnB.com Kitchen

ROONEYʼS ROOST B&B Full, Hot 874-2026, 206 McKinnon Airport & Yes Yes Breakfast Yes Box 552, [email protected] Ferry & Evening www.rooneysroost.com Bikes too Cookies ZIMOVIA B&B 874-2626, 319 Weber St. Box 1424, [email protected] Yes Yes Yes Continental Yes Yes Yes www.zimoviabnb.com Breakfast Toll free: 866-946-6842 Page 28 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Totems, continued Continued from page 27 Shakes Tribal House The Shakes Tribal House is Kauk-ish. a replication of a house of high The totem shows the fisher- caste among the Tlingit people man wearing a bear coat and before Christian missionaries carrying a string of salmon. forced abandonment of the tra- ditional communal residences. SHAKES ISLAND The doorway of the tribal More than 1,500 visitors house shows a figure with streamed into Wrangell in many faces throughout the 1940, more than doubling the design. It was because of this town’s population of 1,142 to that the building was given the attend the last great potlatch of name Ck! UDATC HIT, which the local Tlingit people. means “house of many faces.” On June 3-4, 1940, the Carved replicas of the newly constructed Chief Shakes Clan house posts adorn Shakes tribal house had been the interior of the structure. completed and the totem park The original house posts are erected. In addition, the Native believed to have been carved people of Southeast Alaska during the late 1700s. gathered for a ceremony to The house posts of the Frog name the last Chief Shakes. Clan are also on display inside Shakes Island today is on the tribal house. Chief Shakes house and the ‘Eagle’ totem in winter. the National Register as a his- The tribal house was erect- toric monument site. ed as part of a Forest Service- supervised project. House with a bear perched Construction began in June atop a tall pole and tracks 1939. making a pathway up com- The clan house built in memorates a legendary flood. WRANGELL’S OUTDOOR 1940 replaces the Shakes When the flood came, the Community House structure. Shakes tribe was camped on HEADQUARTERS Chief Shakes VI died in the Stikine near Cone 1916 and the title was not Mountain, their summer filled until 1940 when abode. As the water rose, the Kudanake attained the title. people fled to higher ground. Eagle Totem Fighting their way up the Joe Thomas, an elder mountain through the tangled among Wrangell Tlingits in underbrush, they came across 1940, told the paper at the time two grizzly bears who were that the Eagle Totem, which also seeking refuge. The bears stands at the entrance to showed by their actions that Shakes Island, was called Na- they wanted to help lead the chee-su-na totem by the origi- Shakes people to safety. UNTING ISHING AND AMPING QUIPMENT H , F C E nal owners. The party reached the pin- ATV’S • SPORTING GOODS Bear Up The Mountain nacle of Cone Mountain, BOATS AND MARINE ACCESSORIES Totem OUTBOARD MOTORS AND EXPERT SERVICE The totem before Shakes See Totems, page 29 Also Home Furnishings, Appliances, Carpeting, Paint, and the best in Televisions and Electronics Custom Seafood Processiing • AUTHORIZED AT&T RETAILER G&G Alaska • 907-874-3905 • PO Box 11, Wrangell, AK 99929 • Vacuum Pac/Freezing Buness Bros, Inc. • Fish Boxes • Gel Pac • Home Canning Suplies 14 Front St. • 874-3811 • Retail Sales www.bunessbros.com • [email protected] CREDIT CARDS WELCOME WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 29

Incredible bear viewing is available from the Forest Service built observatory at Anan Creek, 30 miles southeast of Wrangell. The site is accessible only by floatplane or boat and passes are required during peak season. For more information or to obtain a pass contact the Wrangell Ranger District, 907-874-2323.

Totems, USFS- Permitted Outfitters continued LOOK FOR THE LOGO BEFORE YOU GO Experienced Professionals, Quality Tours Continued from page 28 Est. 1993 where they stayed until the water receded. Company Captain Contact Information Double Whale Crest Hat Alaska Charters Brenda Schwartz-Yeager #7 Front Street, Phone: 907-874-4157 Totem and Adventures and John Yeager Toll Free: 1-888-993-2750 Beside the Bear Totem on USCG Licensed Operator Email: [email protected] Shakes Island is the Double Web: www.alaskaupclose.com Whale Crest Hat totem, also Alaska Peak Mark Galla Phone: 907-874-2454 called Ko-na-ke-det. On this and Seas USCG Licensed Operator Email: [email protected] totem squats the image of a Web: www.wedoalaska.com man with a whale on his head. Alaska Waters Jim Leslie 107 Stikine Ave., Phone: 907-874-2378 He is Ko-na-ke-det, a name he USCG Licensed Operator Toll Free 1-800-347-4462 gained upon becoming a sea Email: [email protected] monster. Web: www.alaskawaters.com The man, who later became the monster, was of high caste Summit Charters John Taylor Phone: 907-305-0416 and married a high caste USCG Licensed Operator Email: [email protected] woman of another village. His Web: www.summitcharters.com mother-in-law, who lived with Alaska Cruises & Marjy Wood Group tours only. Minimum 24 guests them, disliked her son-in-law Vacations By Tyee SRJBA Executive 24 or less contact listed individual operators very much. She thought he Travel - SRJBA Director Email: [email protected] was lazy and only interested in Administration Office Web: www.akcruises.com gambling. The mother-in-law always made slighting remarks about All listed companies meet the Stikine River Jet Boat Association’s See Totems, page 30 strict requirements based upon safety and guest comfort. Page 30 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Totems, continued Continued from page 29 mother-in-law found it the next morning, boasting about how him. When salmon season she had found fish with which arrived, the man left the vil- to feed the village. lage with others, but took his The man told his wife his catch to a lake behind secret but told her not to tell Wrangell and built himself a anyone. hut. He had been told that Night after night, he there was a monster dwelling brought more food to the in the waters in the lake. beach. His mother-in-law He made a trap to capture became more boastful about the creature. Ultimately, it died, her ability to find food for the and the man skinned it and got people. She chided her son-in- inside the skin. Suddenly, he law and daughter for being found it swimming away with lazy. him down to the bottom of the One day, the man did not lake where the monster once return. Instead, his wife found lived. After several such excur- him on the beach inside the Detail of the Three Frogs totem found on Shakes Island. sions, the man hid the skin and skin, with two whales beside Proceeding around the devil.” returned home. him. He had perished trying to Shakes House to the left, the Below him is the spirit of The next year, famine bring two whales to the beach first two totems are called La-kig-i-na. gripped the village. The man for food. Chief Kadashan Totems, one The lowest figure of all is donned his monster skin and The people helped the surmounted by the figure of a the thunderbird. He lives on made his way to the sea where widow take the skin back up to man, who is said to be the mountains, lays a lake in his he captured a salmon. He laid the lake, where she wept for Creator. back, and when he gets uneasy the fish on the beach, and his the loss of her husband. Soon, Below the man is a carving he spills some of the water and however, the monster reap- of a Raven with a man between this causes rain. peared and took her beneath his wings, signifying the The left hand totem is sur- the water. grandson that made man. mounted by the eagle, the crest It is considered good luck to Below is La-kig-i-na, the of the Kadashan family. see Ko-na-ka-det, his wife or 874-3648 father of Kayak. Kadashan Below is the crane and the their children. described him as “all same lowest figure of all is the Ko- Quilting Supplies & Fabric Chief Kadashan Totems na-ka-det put in to make the pole higher. Undersea Bear Totem www.summitcharters.com This totem along the back corner of the Shakes House pictures a grizzly under water. Documentation of the legend of this totem was not available The “High Point” of from local Tlingit elders or Your Alaskan Adventure through any source that dis- • Water Taxi cusses Wrangell Totems. • Fishing Three Frogs Totem • Anan Bear Observatory Located on the right-hand • Freight Hauling side at the front of the Shakes • Inland Waters Tribal House, the Three Frogs • Stikine River Totem was destroyed by van- • LeConte Glacier dals in the early 1980s. Local Ranked #1 in passenger Native elders are divided over safety and comfort. whether this totem should be restored because it was erected Summit Charters to ridicule the Frog clan. A John W. Taylor, Captain drawing of this totem appears Cell: (907) 305-0416 See Totems, page 31 WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 - Page 31 Totems, continued Continued from page 30 OTHER WRANGELL in a state of advanced deteri- piece, mixing his own paints TOTEMS oration and, in fact, was lost a to ensure authenticity of the as part of a masthead on the Elsewhere in Wrangell are few years later in a severe colors. Wrangell Sentinel. totems that also carry leg- windstorm, breaking into A full-sized duplicate of According to Monuments ends and stories about the many pieces. Thomas was this Raven pole now stands in in Cedar, the T-shaped roost Tlingit carvers and their very particular about the the Kik.setti totem park. on which three huge frogs ancestors. were perched represents three Kik.setti women whose totem SHAKES GRAVES is the frog. The women MARKERS allegedly cohabitated with Off Case Avenue are two three of Chief Shake’s slaves. totems marking the corners After a time, Shakes presented of the grave of Chief Shakes. the Kik.setti chief with a bill This is the third set of killer for the keep of the three whales erected at this site. women who were living in his The second copies are pre- household. The Kik.setti chief served at the Shakes House. would not pay, however, holding that the women had dis- POST OFFICE TOTEM graced themselves by marry- In front of the Federal ing beneath their station and Building overlooking had been ejected from the Zimovia Straits is the Raven tribe. Shakes was not satis- totem, carved by Thomas fied, so, according to custom, Ukas in the mid-1960s. he had the ridicule pole Ukas, whose father carved with the idea for forc- William Ukas was a noted ing payment. and respected carver, made a Many maintain the debt number of small totems for ultimately was paid, and keep- sale and display. The Post ing the totem standing is a Office pole is the only one to continuing affront. However, remain in Wrangell. according to Dick Stokes of According to information Wrangell, local elders (appar- compiled by Postal Service ently including those of the workers, this pole is a small Frog Clan) in 1940 agreed that version of one of William the totem could be replicated Ukas’ carvings, the Raven as a symbol of peace among Totem. the Tlingit people of the When Thomas made his region. version of it, the original was

Hair Unlimited • Featuring Framesi & Matrix Products • Open Tu, Wed, Th: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Evenings by appointment only Alaska Collector Art Glass • Fenton Art Glass • www.alaskafentonartglass.com • ebay store: alaska collector art glass Darlene Harding ~ 310 Front Street ~ 874-3995 P.O. Box 321, Wrangell, AK 99929 Page 32 - WRANGELL GUIDE, 2011 Spring sunset, all the colors of summer’s fireweed

Photo courtesy of Alaska Pix

A spring sunset is a reminder of the beauty of fireweed blooms which will brighten fields and roadsides in July.