Europe in America: Sitka, Alaska

Rich Cultural Heritage in the Former Capital of Russia America

Sitka is located on the Alaskan Panhandle, an area that was originally settled by the indigenous Tlingit people over 10,000 years ago. Russian explorers established a settlement in the area in 1799 and, after several years of conflicts with the Tlingit, Sitka became the capital of Russia America in 1808. Alaska was purchased by the United States in 1876 for $7.2 million, becoming the 49th U.S. State. Sitka’s cultural heritage continues to prosper today with museums that highlight stories of the past, including both the Tlingit people and Russian settlers. It is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and a bucket list destination for catching wild salmon.

Only accessible by boat or plane, Sitka has 22 buildings and sites on the National Register of Historic Places, including some of the only authentic Russian buildings in the United States. A short walk through downtown will uncover buildings and landmarks of the two cultures that collided prior to U.S statehood. Building 29, also known as “Log Cache,” is one of the few surviving structures from the Russian era of Alaska history. St. Michael’s Orthodox Cathedral, rebuilt after a fire in 1966, is the earliest Orthodox cathedral in the New World— originally built in the nineteenth century when Alaska was under the control of Russia. The Sheldon Jackson Museum, a great place to learn about the Alaskan Native People, is also famous for being the first concrete building in Alaska.

Alaska Day: Since 1949, every October 18th the City of Sitka celebrates Alaska Day to commemorate the Alaska Purchase. The week-long festival includes a reenactment ceremony of the signing of the Alaska Purchase, interpretive programs, special exhibits, cultural entertainment, and film screenings at museums, parks, and historic sites around town.

Outdoor Activities

– Hiking is a popular activity when visiting the small town; there are only 14 miles of roads from end to end and you can get everywhere on foot. The Totem Trail and the Russian Memorial Loop are both recommended hikes during your visit. The 1.6-mile loop trail passes 18 replica and original totem poles carved by Alaska Natives.

– For the avid angler, a fishing charter while in Sitka might be the highlight of the trip and your chance to catch all five species of Pacific Salmon. Charters are a serious business in Sitka, with dozens of companies providing guests with everything necessary to have an unforgettable experience, including lodging.

– Book a seaplane tour and see coastal Alaska from a higher vantage point. Fly over the Saint Lazaria Wilderness and view wildlife, rainforests, glacier lakes, mountains, and countless islands.

Photo: Matt Hage, courtesy of Travel Alaska

Museums & Attractions

– Spend the day at the Sitka National Historical Park, operated by the National Park Service. This scenic 107-acre park preserves and interprets the history of the Tlingit People and Russian Settlers. The main building in the park houses authentic original totems, local artifact displays, and an active Tlingit arts studio where the public can interact with Alaskan Native Indian artists.

– Russian Bishop’s House National Historic Landmark preserves the oldest intact Russian building in Sitka, the former residence of the Bishop of the Orthodox Church. The building has been restored to its 1850’s appearance when it functioned as a school, residence and chapel. The museum is the best place in Sitka to learn about life during the Russian American period. Today, the museum is operated by the National Park Service and is open to the public for self-guided tours of the first floor and guided tours of the second floor living quarters and chapel.

– While in Sitka, visit the two animal rehabilitation centers. The Alaska Raptor Center provides medical treatment to over 200 injured birds every year, while the Fortress of the Bear cares for native black and brown bears. Both facilities focus on educating visitors while rehabilitating rescued animals.