The Totem Heritage Center is an important stop on a tour of Ketchikan, Alaska. This museum has rescued totems from uninhabited local Tlingit and Haida villages. In addition to preserving Native Alaskan historical artifacts, it offers art and cultural programs in Pacific Northwest art.
What are Totem Poles?
Totem poles were used by many Pacific Coastal tribes to record their history. The history was handed down orally, so modern interpretation of the poles may not be completely accurate, as some of the oral traditions have been lost. Each totem had its own special meaning, and marks on the pole recorded events.
Totem poles were also used as funeral poles, and to honor the dead. A funeral pole had a special hole carved into the back of it. The deceased person’s ashes were placed inside the compartment and sealed into the totem pole.
Shame poles were named because they were used to punish a person who had committed a shameful or dishonorable act. When someone committed an offense, a pole was carved and set up to publicly shame that person. Once the person had made restitution, the pole could be taken down and burned.
Another way totem poles were used were as house supports. A family could carve a pole with their totem, and use it as a supporting beam in their home. If the tribe moved, these totem poles were small enough to be transported and used in a new dwelling.
Native Alaskan Art at the Totem Heritage Center
In addition to the preserved totem poles, a collection of Native Alaskan art is on display. This includes artifacts carved from whalebone and walrus tusks, leatherwork, and beaded items. It houses a collection of masks used in ceremonies. Local recent artwork is also on display.
Arts classes are offered on a regular basis to preserve the local heritage. Classes include various techniques in carving, weaving, and regalia making. Following a series of these classes, participants may apply for a certificate in Northwest Coast Native Arts through the Totem Heritage Center or the University of Alaska.
Tours of the museum are self guided, or visitors may choose to be led by a docent. The hours and location are at the City of Ketchikan website. After a tour, the Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery and Eagle Center are right next door, another interesting feature in a tour of Ketchikan.
Seeing totems is an integral part of travel in Alaska, and deepens appreciation for the art and culture of the original settlers of the area.
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