Final Project - Craig, Alaska

Craig, Alaska from Sunnahae - city-data.com

Part I  Timeline - Prince of Wales Island (POW), Alaska 

 

Fishing Industry

The Tlingit and Haida Natives have  thrived on the island of Prince of Wales and the surrounding areas for centuries because of the resources available in the area.  These Natives found the area suitable because of abundant resources and mild winters provided by the temperate rain forest.

Saltery and Cold Storage - ASL-P39-0358 AK Digital Archive

 The same abundant resources that made this area appealing to the Natives eventually attracted others to the area.  Because of healthy salmon runs, fish processing facilities were built on Prince of Wales Island.  The cannery in Klawock, built in 1878, was one of the first built in Southeast Alaska.  In 1907, Craig Miller along with some local Haida men, established a saltery on Fish Egg Island, near present day Craig.  It was comprised of shacks and tents.  

Cannery at Fish Egg - 1910-1920 AK Digital Archives  UAA-hmc-1011-11

  The fishing industry continued to grow with prolific salmon runs.  In the years of 1908-1912 a permanent saltery, cold storage facility, and cannery were built at the present location of Craig.  Along with the cannery, permanent housing structures were constructed.  The fish processing industry boomed as high demand for salmon existed during World War I.

The fishing industry in Southeast Alaska is a perfect example of the boom and bust economy that has existed in Alaska.  When the depression hit salmon prices slumped.  In years following the depression, the industry would often flourish then fail.  Depleted salmon runs from overfishing and the U.S. involvement in World War II took a toll on the fishing industry.  

Ward Cove Cannery - flickr.com

The  Ward Cove Cannery burnt down in 1956, leaving the place in ruins. This abandoned structures still remain today as a footprint of the past booming industry.

Today the fishing industry still supports much of the economy on Prince of Wales Island.  The old canneries are simply memories but fishing continues to be a major industry.  In 2007 the City of Craig and Silver Bay Seafoods agreed upon the construction and operation of a new processing and cold storage facility that would be built in Craig.  This facility employed nearly 250 people in 2011.  

Timber  

 

Lumber from Prince of Wales - AK Digital Archives ASL-P207-31-05

The first sawmill was opened on POW in 1912.  Usually there was a connection with lumber and other industries.  In Southeast Alaska sawmills were typically opened in conjunction with fishing and mining industries or other economic catalysts. When the need for production ceased in areas usually the sawmills shut down because of the fact that most of the lumber was used locally and there was no other market for the product.  

The increases and decreases in production and use of lumber coincides with many of the events that occurred in or involved Alaska and the United States.  For example, World War I increased the demand for fish.  This demand for fish increased the demand for lumber was needed to build fish traps, pilings, packing cases, mine timbers, dock piles and timbers, and lumber for construction.  The war also increased the need for Sitka spruce which was being used for the production of airplanes.  The use of wood for airplanes was required because of the country's inability to meet the demands for metals that were typically used for airplane construction.  

In the 1950s an event occurred that turned the industry around.  A fifty year forest service contract was signed that would increase lumber production.  Also, a global market was established that would perpetuate growth of the industry in the coming years.  Lumber still continues to support the economy on Prince of Wales Island and throughout Southeast Alaska. 
  

 

Mining

 

Many mining attempts have taken place on Prince of Wales.  One example, the Salt Chuck Mine, located near the present day Kasaan,  operated from 1905-1941 producing over 300,000 tons of ore.  Copper, silver, gold, and palladium are some of the ores that were extracted from this site and other mining sites on the island.  With the mining booms came population growth.  

Mining Camp at Sulzer, Alaska - AK Digital Archives ASL-P104-044

Hollis, a town on the east coast of POW, is another example of the mining boom. In the early 1900s gold and silver were mined here. Nearly 1,000 residents resided in the community at this time. When mining production ceased around 1915 the town was abandoned.  Hollis is the current location for the ferry terminal that connects the island to Ketchikan but has little industry to keep the town alive.  The 2010 census reported the population of Hollis to be 112 residents.


Mining possibilities are still being investigated on Prince of Wales Island as tests are being conducted at various sites.  Will this produce more growth?  Only time will tell.

 

 

World War  I and II 

As mentioned previously in the fishing industry, timber, and mining sections, the two World Wars had impact on many of the industries on Prince of Wales Island.  

Spruce Goose - www.century-of-flight.net

The fishing industry flourished during World War I because of the high demand for salmon but declined during World War II because of declining salmon runs, the draft,  and booming industries in other areas of the state. 


Timber production increased during the WWI and WWII because of demand.  Wood was a new product being used for production of things such as airplanes because of a shortage of metals.   With the demands came growth to Prince of Wales Island.

 

Travel 

 

Because of location, travel to Prince of Wales Island has always been challenging.  In the early 1900s steam services were available from Seattle to the island.  As new economic opportunities were presented new travel opportunities followed.  

IFA Ferry - evergreenfleet.com

When the Alaska Marine Highway was established more frequent voyages would take passengers to and from POW.  For years ferry services were available sporadically, making it possible to get to and from the island on a more consistent schedule. 

As the industries of fishing and lumber grew, a need for regular ferry services to Prince of Wales Island occurred.  In 1997 the Inter-Island Ferry Authority (IFA) was organized to help provide improved transportation to the island.  Alaska's Municipal Port Authority Act made it possible for several cities on the island to establish the IFA as a public corporation that would serve the members of the community with transportation services.

 

 

Alaska Native Settlement Claims Act

 

Shaanseet.com

In 1971 the Alaska Native Settlement Claims Act (ANSCA) was passed.  This created Native corporations throughout the state.  Shaan-Seet was the village corporation established in Craig, Alaska.  This corporation has been active in providing economic opportunities.  

Shaan-Seet has provided jobs to many people in the community. The corporation has conducted logging operation, owned and operated lodges, restaurants, and bars, as well as established itself in the real estate sector. 

Part II - Cause Effect Statements  

 

Because of salmon runs in and around Prince of Wales Island many fish processing facilities have been established on POW.  In order to operate these facilities many people flocked to the area.  
Link:  Resources, Economy, Population/Settlement 


A need for lumber during the World Wars and the abundance of wood available on POW created economic opportunities on the island.  Again, populations increased because of demands on the timber industry.
Link:  Resource, Economy, World Wars, Population/Settlement

 
Because of ANSCA, the Native corporation Shaan-Seet was established.  This has provided residents in and around the areas of Craig, Alaska with opportunities for employment and leisure activities.  
Link:  Government, Economy, Population
 
 

 

Module IX - Alaska Governance and Contemporary Issues

Essential Question:

*Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act 1980 has been supported and derided by Alaskans, both in 1980 when it was passed and today. Describe three impacts of this landmark legislation.

*Federal Ownership and Conservation of Alaska's Lands

Many citizens of the United States wanted conservation of the beautiful lands and wildlife of Alaska. Many Alaskans had different opinions on how the land of Alaska should be used. Through ANILCA over 100 million acres of Alaska lands would be federally protected and set aside for conservation. These lands would become national forests, national parks, preserves, monuments and wildlife refuges. Because of ANILCA, the federal government determines what activities occur on the 60% of Alaska that is owned by the U.S.

Tongass National Forest - Christy House 2010

*Subsistence and Management

Inhabitants of the Alaskan region have survived on the abundant resources of the area for centuries. The management of these resources would become a hot topic for debate. Questions would arises such as: Should the resources that are sought out for living a subsistence lifestyle be protected and managed? Who should ensure that these resources are managed and protected? Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act or ANILCA is the bill that would determine the answer to these questions. Because of ANILCA, decisions about uses of the lands owned by the federal government would be given to the federal government. The control forced by the federal government sent many Alaskan citizens into an outrage. Although many were furious about ANILCA, the bill would remain and continues to dictate how, when, where, and what subsistence activities occur in Alaska.

*Natural Resource Development
Because of ANILCA, many areas in Alaska are not open for resource development. Sen. Paul Tsongas, a steady conservation supporter, said that the bill was "a victory for the administration and for those of us in Congress who have worked for so many years to protect the staggering beauty and abundant natural resources, and wildlife of the Alaska wilderness." "No single piece of legislation in our history," he said, "surpasses this act." (Alaska History and Cultural Studies - Modern Alaska) Debate continues as to whether lands protected by ANILCA should be opened up to resource exploration. Many know of the abundance of those resources in Alaska but realize that little can be done to use these resources.

Alaska Oil Pipeline
alaska-in-pictures.com
Explore Alaska Blog
Let's take oil drilling for example. In ANILCA section 1003, Congress stated that the "production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is prohibited and no leasing or other development leading to production of oil and gas from the [Refuge] shall be undertaken until authorized by an act of Congress." Some legislative action brought about during Bush's administration has made it more likely that oil drilling will occur in the future. The debate still continues - to drill or not to drill. Certainly an issue to watch in the future that is influenced by ANILCA.

Examine Question:

*What ANILCA lands are in your area? Identify regulations that affect how that land may be used.

Prince of Wales Island is located in the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the country. This protected forest is made up of 17 million acres and is one of the last temperate rain forests in the world. This forest has abundant resources that are regulated by the US Forest Service. As in any natural system, things are always changing, requiring the regulations to change as well.
Timber is an abundant resource and is strictly regulated by the US Forest Service. Where lumber will be taken, how it will be taken, and how much will be taken is always considered. A plan is created by the U.S. Forest Service that answers these questions and is often reevaluated. The 2008 U.S. Forest Service Plan states clearly that there is a ceiling on the amount of lumber that can be taken from the Tongass. It also includes in the plan that the plan will be reevaluated every 10-15 years. The plan is strict and very dynamic.

Subsistence fishing is a common practice among residents in rural Alaska. The same National Forest Service (NFS) plan explains that certain fish can be harvested within regulations and is preserved through ANILCA. Each year the NFS designates areas for harvest. I have observed on our island that the NFS posts restrictions in the fishing regulations manual as well as at the site of harvest explaining when and how the fish must be taken. It is common for residents to use a net for beach seining as well as dip netting in areas in order to harvest the needed fish. All restrictions are created and enforced by the NFS.

Subsistence Fishing
Vilda - IGI-2011-003-0022

Evaluate:
This was a large module described correctly at the beginning of the module by being full of complex information. As mentioned, I know that I will need to revisit the resources presented in order to truly understand all of the information. Cool stuff though. I really enjoyed the content and look forward to spending more time with it. Blogging is still frustrating though.
Colleague Reviews:

Explore Alaska ClassNiki shared some interesting facts in regard to the pollution created by military activity throughout the war. I did not know that Eagle River had been used as a weapons testing site. Interesting information!

Alaskan HistoryI enjoyed the information that Claire shared about recent activity of the Alaska National Guard. It is always insightful to read about current activites of the military branch that started as the ATG.

Gary's Alaska BlogGary shared some exciting information on the Alaska Scouts. It was nice to read an extension to the minimal information that was shared through the course.

Module VIII - World War II 1939-1945 A Turning Point for Alaska

Essential Question:


*The conduct of war presents incredible challenges as well as opportunities. These impact the economy of the country as well as the daily lives of all participants. Describe the challenges and opportunities unique to Alaska during World War II.


Challenges

Many people living in Alaska during World War II faced challenges associated with the war. The nature of those challenges were influenced greatly by many things. Obviously some citizens experienced greater challenges than others. Let's take a look at some of the challenges faced by people during World War II.

Aleut Evacuation

The Aleut citizens living on the Islands of Kisku and Atta of the Aleutian Islands probably experienced the impacts of war at its greatest due to close proximity to Japan. For the first time since the occupation of the English in early U.S. history, a foreign country occupied United States lands in the Aleutian Islands. Japanese troops occupied Kisku and Atta, taking nearly 50 prisoners. The U.S. military responded to the threats of the Japanese by evacuating Aleuts living in the Aleutian and Pribilof Islands.

Many Native citizens of the Aleutian and Pribilof Islands were forced from their homes and were relocated to abandoned canneries in Southeast Alaska. They had no say as to where they were going and when or if they would return. The Aleuts were given only 24-hours notice that they would leave. They were to use this time to gather their important belongings. They would take little with them as they left home.

Vilda-Aleut Cemetery - WWII
ASL-P01-3749

The living conditions in the camps were inhospitable. The Aleuts were forced to live in cramped old, dilapidated buildings that had not been used for a decade or more. The circumstances were dire. There was not adequate water, sanitation conditions, or medical care. Because of these facts, illness and diseases resulted in a 10 percent death rate.

When the Aleuts returned to their homelands they found them in ruins. Many of their homes had been destroyed so the Japanese would not use them. What the Aleuts had left behind was stolen, damaged, or destroyed. It was a devastating end to an existing injustice. Some of the Aleuts chose not to return to their homeland and chose other places to settle. Eventually, in 1992, the U.S. Government issued an apology to the Aleuts and offered monetary restitution. (November 2010, Aleut Evacuation and Relocation 1942-1945).

Other Wartime Challenges

Other challenges faced Alaskans throughout World War II. U.S. citizens of Japanese decent were detained and held in internment camps during the war. These individuals were pulled from their homes and sent to live in meager camps in the lower 48. Also, residents faced the challenges of living with food rations, censored media, and occasional blackouts. (World War II in Alaska)

Opportunities

World War II brought more money and people to Alaska than the Gold Rush (Video - Alaska: A History in Five Parts). With war came opportunities. Because of Alaska's location on the Great Circle Route, the U.S. Government knew that military defenses were needed in areas of Alaska. Wartime construction changed Alaska. Many new military personnel moved into the area, creating economic opportunities throughout the territory. Infrastructure development such as roads, runway construction, oil pipelines, and communication systems were needed to help Alaska stay connected with the rest of the country and to help defend from invaders. Let's examine some of the opportunities created from World War II.

Alaska Highway Construction and Infrastructure Development

The United States needed a way to get from the lower 48 to Alaska. A road had been discussed by the United States government in the 1930s as they recognized a need for a land route that would extend through Canada and into Alaska. It wasn't until after the U.S. became involved in World War II that construction on the Alaska Highway began.

Alaka Highway Construction
Vilda UAF-2004-92-56

In February of 1942 construction on the Alaska Highway began. Over 10,000 troops and thousands of civilians were needed to construct the 1,900 miles of road. The difficult terrain would make this task extremely challenging but was completed in 9 months, between March and November 1942. Not only would this road provide work for the thousands at the time, but would become a road that would forever keep Alaska connected to the continental United States.

Alaska Territorial Guard and Military Build-Up

The Alaska Territorial Guard was formed by Alaska Natives. Their purpose was to protect the coastal communities of the territory from further invasions of Japan. The ATG, also known as the Eskimo Scouts or Tundra Army, were unpaid volunteers. They were an unorganized militia working to provide intelligence on Japanese movements in the area. The were separate from the National Guard which was considered the organized militia. After the war the ATG became part of the National Guard.
Vilda -Heurlin, C. "Rusty" (painter)


Examine Question:

*Explain the purpose of the Aleut evacuation and give at least two examples of how the evacuation affected the Aleuts of Alaska.

As explained earlier, the Aleut citizens of the Alaska territory suffered greatly because of the acts of Japan during World War II. Their story is tragic. The evacuation changed their lives forever as the war destroyed the place they called home. We will look at why the Aleuts were evacuated and how they were affected.

Because of the location of the Aleutian and Pribilof Islands on the Great Circle Route, Aleuts were at risk of attack from the Japanese. This was the closest point in the United States from Japan and the Japanese wanted to use this area for bases for future military operations. In June of 1942 a Japanese attack occurred in the Aleutian Islands. To ensure the safety of the Aleuts that called this area their homeland, it was decided that the area needed to be evacuated. These Natives were forced from their homes and taken to deserted camps located in Southeast Alaska.

Aleuts at Evacuation Camp
Vilda ASL-P306-1044

One effect on the Aleuts was high death rates. The camps the Aleuts were forced to live in were unsanitary and inhospitable and were not located near much needed healthcare services. This created unhealthy living circumstances and inability to treat victims. Many Aleuts died because of the poor living situations. A 10 percent death rate existed in the camps. Because of these conditions, many would never return home.

Many Aleuts would die protecting their homes. Several signed on to become part of the military force that would protect their homes. Because of the severity of the battles, many casualties resulted. Many Aleuts would perish because of their fight to overtake the islands.

Many Aleuts would never return to their homelands. Those that did had little to return to. Many of their homes had been burned before they left so that the Japanese could not use them for their purposes. Many of the belongings that were left behind by the Aleuts had been stolen or destroyed. After the war the place they called home would have to be severely reconstructed in order to resemble what had been left.


Evaluate:

I have enjoyed studying much about World War II but have spent little time learning about Alaska's involvement. I have really struggled with the amount of time the course is taking. I have loved the content. What has bee the most difficult is the blogging requirements. It seems to take me forever to get a post ready. Any suggestions to speed this along?


Colleague Reviews:

The Alaskan Adventure
I enjoyed reading Lane's blog as he shared his own experiences with health care in Tatitlek. It is interesting how many places in the state have limited access to what many of us see as necessary services.

My Cove and Beyond
Marg did a great job discussing the changes in formal education for the Natives. The Natives had and still have knowledge that must be shared with future generations. The education system they used was so practical for their existence.

Educational Exploration in AK
Kristin shared a great summary of the troubles the Aleuts and Japanese American citizens faced during evacuation and internment.

Module VII - American Period: Society

Essential Question:

How have the settlement patterns of Alaska been a reflection of the natural landscape, distance, resources, and the economy?


Alaska is a huge state with much to be discussed in terms of settlement and the connections with landscape, distance, resources, and the economy. I am going to focus on the settlement patterns in Southeast Alaska, and more specifically on the island where I am living, Prince of Wales also known as POW.


Tlingit and Haida Natives were the first to inhabit and benefit from the resources on Prince of Wales Island. The Tlingit arrived nearly eight thousands years ago and the Haida arrived more recently. Most early Native settlements were on or near the beaches due to easy access. Because of the mild climate and abundant resources on the coast, Natives were able to flourish in coastal villages year round. They were hunters and gatherers, reliant on the resources of the area as they lived a subsistence lifestyle that revolved around the cycles of nature. They harvested fish, shellfish, sea mammals, beach greens, seaweed, and berries when seasons afforded the opportunities. Wood was always available and was used in many ways. These abundant resources would eventually draw other settlers looking for economic gain into the area.

Click here to revisit specific details in regard to the Tlingit and Haida tribes-

Russian, Spanish, British, and Euroamerican exploration occured in the North Pacific in what is now known as Alaska in the 1700's but wide scale economic development did not occur on Prince of Wales Island until the late 1800s. The primary developments of industry were of fishing, mining, and logging.

Fishing
One of the first and largest economic opportunities on POW was presented because of the abundant salmon runs around the island. These fishing opportunities created new settlements. Fishing presented many opportunities on boats and during processing. The first American shore-based saltery operated at Klawock on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska by 1868. (Alaska History and Cultural Studies CHAPTER 4-16: FISHING AND SEA HUNTING) Later this site was turned into a cannery. The fishing industry was seasonal but required many workers. The Klawock cannery was operated primarily by the Tlingit and Haidas. The Natives were unable to work entire seasons because of their need to fish and provide for their families' needs. The industry continued to expand and the increased demand created a need for help in the canneries. People were brought in to work. Many of the new workers were Chinese immigrants, Japanese, Filipino, and Mexicans.

The boom and bust trend was and still is evident in the fishing industry. Today, fishing is one of the driving industries on POW. The cities of Craig and Klawock rely heavily on the fishing industry. The market is still driven by supply and demand. Each summer the population rises as people come to capitalize on the opportunities that fishing presents on the island. It has brought many new people that now call Prince of Wales Island their home.
Klawock Cannery
vilda.alaska.edu

Mining
Mining on Prince of Wales Island began in the late 1800s. Precious resources such as gold, silver, copper, zinc, lead, uranium, palladium and marble were mined on the island. Hollis, a town on the east coast of POW, is a result from the mining boom. In the early 1900s gold and silver were mined here. Nearly 1,000 residents resided in the community at this time. When mining production ceased around 1915 the town was abandoned. Again, more evidence of the boom and bust economy that plagued the state. You can still walk the Harris River to see some of the remnants of the mining that occurred in the area.

Mining of marble occurred on POW in the early 1900s but did not prove to be a profitable economic endeavor and did not contribute any long-term flourishing settlements. If you would like to read more about the marble quarry in Calder Bay on Prince of Wales Island
-Click Here

Calder Bay Marble Quarry

1890-1910
vilda.alaska.edu

Timber/Logging

Timber has been a driving force of the economy on Prince of Wales Island. Initially the United States was not interested in promoting the timber industry. The US Eventually passed a law that allowed for the production of lumber in Alaska. The demand was high during booming industrial periods and lumber helped meet those needs.

Early logging was hard work and completed mostly by hand. This would require large numbers of workers in order to meet demand. Eventually logging expanded and as technology advanced. Areas were made accessible for more wide-spread harvesting. As a result of logging on the island, Prince of Wales has over 2,000 miles of roads. This is unusual for Southeast Alaska's coastal communities.

Many of the communities on Prince of Wales began as logging camps. Hollis was brought back to life in 1954 when the Ketchikan Pulp Company was given a 50 year timber contract. Hollis became the first logging camp and the base of timber operation on Prince of Wales Island. In 1962 the camp was moved to Thorne Bay, leaving Hollis nearly vacant. There is still a logging operation in Thorne Bay employing many residents.

Logging in Hollis - Vilda 1957

Hollis is not the thriving mining and logging community it used to be. It is now the home to a ferry terminal and a float plane dock. The Inter-Island Ferry Authority (IFA) operates out of Hollis and travels between Hollis and Ketchikan each day. Currently there are some mining opportunities being explored but little growth is resulting from it. A highway from Hollis connects the major hubs of the island - Craig and Klawock.

All communities of Prince of Wales island are results of the Native presence or economic endeavors and industries of the past. Fishing and logging continue to drive the economy of the island. We still see fluctuations each year as supply and demand changes -creating the boom or bust economy.

Examine Question:

What role did Sheldon Jackson play in creating an early education system for Alaska?

In the late 1880s, as Euroamericans moved into the Alaskan region, a need for schools arose. Mission schools, a product of the efforts of Sheldon Jackson, were the beginning of an early education system for Alaska.

Sheldon Jackson, a Presbyterian leader, began his work in Alaska's education system in 1877. Jackson felt the need for the Natives to be educated into what the early Americans called civilized lifestyles. In his efforts to accomplish this, Jackson created an English-only policy that would be strictly enforced in schools. Native culture was impacted throughout the state because of the educational experiences of the mission schools.

Jackson advocated for missions schools throughout the state. Funding for schools was limited and mission schools made it possible to have schools without large financial contributions from the citizens or the government. Mission schools would continue until control was turned over to the Bureau of Education. These mission schools led to the prominence of a variety of churches still found throughout the state today.

Evaluate:

I don't know if I am just slow but the reading and blogging is still taking me forever. I need to find some ways to speed things along.

Colleague Reviews:

Heather's Alaskan Exploration
I enjoyed Heather's information on the railroads in Alaska. Interesting facts.

Peter's Alaska Blog
Peter shared some interesting history specifically of communication and the changes he experienced in the Bristol Bay Area. It is amazing how quickly technology changes things.

The Alaskan Adventure
I enjoyed reading Lane's experiences with transportation in the area of Tatitlek.

Module VI - American Period: Transportation and Communication

Essential Question:
*Alaska's infrastructure of transportation and communication systems- what are the cause-effect relationships to settlement patterns and to the development of the Alaska economy?

Transportation and communication systems in Alaska were greatly affected by economics as well as technological developments. Let's look at the current transportation and communication systems to see how they have evolved over time to become what they are today.

Ocean and River Transportation:
Most early settlements in Alaska were located on the coast and near large rivers that could be accessed by boats. These waterway routes had been used for centuries by Natives and later by Russians and Europeans. Although waterway routes had been heavily used throughout history, traveling these routes in Alaska proved dangerous. It took time for surveyors to chart the waters surrounding Alaska but this did not impede economic pursuits. Early economic booms brought hoards of adventurous souls looking for gold, creating a great demand for passage north. The earliest route north was via waterway routes. Other industries drove the use of water transportation as well. Commercial fishing provided demand for suitable employees as well as transport of processed fish bound for markets.

Over time, technology has made passage in Alaska waters easier, faster, safer, more comfortable, and affordable. The Alaska Marine Highway provides extensive waterway transport throughout Alaskan cities and towns. Also, many private shipping and commuter companies service the area. Today tourism relies on the beautiful marine transportation system in the state. Because of advanced technology, new means of transport through the unforgiving territory of the state makes marine travel just one of many modes of transportation.

Marine transportation: flickr.com

Air Transportation:
Technological advances created opportunities for people to do the unthinkable - fly. Challenges presented by the treacherous topography of Alaska made flying the most practical mode of transportation. Not only did flying avoid impassable obstacles, it was faster. This opened up the state to new opportunities but also impacted travel methods of old. Flying contributed to the closure of the steamship transport on the Yukon River. It is interesting to observe the cause and effect relationships of transportation methods.

Alaska Airlines: flickr.com

A growing need for air transportation created industry. Because of aviation, schools were formed to provide opportunities for those seeking employment in aviation. Due to an increasing demand on air travel, many airfields were built and, over time, many flights were scheduled to and from Alaska, thus stimulating economy. It took time but Alaska and it's citizens benefited greatly from the development of air transportation. Currently, many communities rely heavily on air transport of mail, goods, and services. Air travel remains to this day the most efficient way to travel great distances in the state.

Road and Rail Transportation:
Rail transportation was primarily developed because of the gold rush and mining industries. The railroads were used to transport people to work in the mines as well as to transport the ore that would be mined. Railroads not only provided a mode of transportation, they created an industry that developed opportunities to those looking for employment. The building of Alaskan railroads required many trained engineers as well as laborers. This provided jobs for people in the state of Alaska.

Many different railway endeavors were pursued but few were met with success. The railroad endeavors that were completed were short lived and faced ongoing challenges. One rail company that is still around today is the Alaska Railroad. During World War II the Alaska Railroad was used heavily to haul military supplies into Interior Alaska. After the war, the railroad equipment was in need of repair. Military construction in the 50's and oil pipeline construction in the 70's kept the Alaska Railroad running. In 1985 the State of Alaska purchased the Alaska Railroad. It is still in operation today transporting over 6.1 million tons of cargo in 2008 and is now connected with the Alaska Rail-Marine Service that ports in Seattle and transports rail cars to and from the lower 48. Alaska Railroad also attracts tourists. Currently, other modes of transportation compete with the slower, less reliable rail system, making it less profitable than in times past.

Communication Systems:
Alaska was heavily dependent on communications systems because of the fact that communities were far spread. The communication systems in Alaska began first as simple operations. Early in the 1900's, mail arrived via dog team, river steamer, or aboard ships. As transportation methods improved, so did the communications system, creating a cause/effect relationship.

The US Postal Service was one of the first communication systems, beginning in the late 1800's. The service was provided in specific areas and would expand as transportation methods improved. Airmail began in the 1920's as one military plane was used to fly mail between Fairbanks and McGrath. Certain regions of the state received little or no mail during certain parts of the year due to accessibility issues. Eventually

The US Army played a large roll in the development of early communication systems. Technological discoveries such as the telegraph, WAMCATS, satellites, long-distance phone service, and telecommunications eventually changed the connections that the citizens of Alaska had with other communities.

Examine Question:

*What is the current status of ocean and river transportation in Alaska? How significant is it today?
Many people do not realized that today, over 80% of all Alaska's cargo arrives via marine transport. In the 1990's nearly 90% of cargo arrived by water. I believe the reason for decline is because of an increased dependence on air transportation for cargo. Many airplanes are now responsible for moving mail and freight between Alaska ports and other countries and states. But, we still rely heavily on marine transportation in Alaska today. River transportation, on the other hand, is not what it was in the past. Because of air transportation it is much easier and faster to travel or send freight. This eventually made the steamships obsolete, as they could not compete with air travel. This being said, we still rely heavily on marine transportation in this state.

Extend:
What/why are the rail/road connections in the area of Alaska where you live?
I am located on Prince of Wales Island. Due to location, there is no railroad service on our island. We rely heavily on the Inter-Island Ferry Authority - IFA for short- for passage into Ketchikan. From here we hop aboard the Alaska Marine Highway or an Alaska Airlines flight that will take us anywhere we would like to travel. Air travel is also accessible to and from the island.

Interisland Ferry Authority: evergreenfleet.com

Unlike many Southeast Alaskan communities, Prince of Wales has over 2,000 miles of roads. These roads are the results of the logging industry on the island. The roads make much of the island accessible to citizens and tourists but is used little for mass transport of goods.

Evaluate:
I continue to struggle with knowing the information well after spending much time on reading and blogging format issues. Everything is taking longer than I thought. When I find myself out of time I tend to publish what I would call a less than perfect posting, where I am leaving out information. The reading is always interesting but takes me a while to really grasp all of the content.

Colleague Reviews for Module V:

Exploring Alaska's Cultures
Shannon shared a great link that lead me to read more about the Bokan Mountain Mine Project on Prince of Wales Island, just south of where I am living currently.

Latitude 61
Crystal used many links that lead to other informative publications. This gave me some ideas on how I can improve my blog in the future. She also did a great job elaborating on mining and how it has impacted the state of Alaska.

Crossing Alaska
I enjoyed Kristi's summary of the components of the economy as well as her insight on the purchase of Alaska. She also included some interesting facts on the purchase of the Virgin Islands.

Module V - American Period: Alaska's Economy

Essential Question:

What have been the major components of the Alaska economy during the American period of 1867-present?

Since the discovery and purchase of Alaska, the state has witnessed several changes in what components drive the economy. Early in Alaska's history, fur trade, fishing and whaling, mining and mineral development, logging, and agricultural endeavors were the driving forces in economy. Later, tourism was added as a piece of the Alaskan economy. As a result of reading the Alaska History and Cultural Studies text over the past week, it is apparent that the advancements in technology and an awareness of over-harvesting has changed the economy in the state of Alaska in the past 50-60 years. Let's take a brief look at the components of the Alaskan economy over the past 140 years.

Mining and Mineral Development -

The first search for mineral resources was conducted by the Russians as they searched for coal. Later, the search for gold began in Alaska in the late 1800's in and around the areas of Sitka and Juneau. Many precious metals were found in various sites throughout the state. Early mining was limited in production because of tool availability. Because of the advanced tools available, mining is now conducted on a much larger scale today. Several mines are currently in operation around the state, contributing to the economy of the Alaska.

The impact of oil development in Alaska has had lasting and far reaching affects. What began as a small discovery in the 1900's, oil now contributes around 88% of the state's revenue, providing jobs for 1/3 of the state's residents. Oil is the natural resource that took Alaska from one of the poorest states in the nation to one of the wealthiest.

Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline
Fotopedia.com

Fur Trade-
Early in the history of the Alaska territory, fur trade was the dominant economic activity. Each year thousands of fur-bearing animals were killed and processed for their fur. These activities were conducted with no restrictions on species and numbers harvested. Over time, traders realized that the resources were dwindling in numbers. When the numbers of the fur-bearing animals declined, those who depended on fur trade for income suffered.

In the 1920's the federal government became involved in conserving the fur-bearing animals. The Alaska Game Commission was formed to regulate the numbers being harvested and the methods of harvest. Many special regulations were created to help the Natives continue to live the subsistence lifestyle that had supported them for centuries. After Alaska became a state in 1959 all management of fur-bearing animals was turned over to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

Currently, some citizens harvest fur-bearing animals for income. It is a small enterprise with very few people in the state solely dependent upon fur-trade as income.

Fishing and Whaling-

Commercial fishing in Alaska began before 1867, cod being the species targeted. Over time, other species were harvested. Salmon, halibut, herring, shrimp, and crab were targeted as money makers. Commercial fishing created a need for processing plants or canneries which created jobs throughout the state. The increase in available jobs brought immigrants from various countries for the seasonal jobs available. Eventually, because of overfishing, fish numbers declined. Therefore, the fishing industry experienced fluctuating successes and failures due to resource availability.

Whaling was very profitable in the late 1800's and early 1900's. Technology advancements made it possible for whalers to harvest large numbers of whales. Eventually whaling suffered much like the other economic sectors because of the over-harvest of the resource. Those in search for whales turned their interest to walruses. Over time, walrus numbers declined as well. Due to decreasing numbers, whaling and walrus hunting became highly regulated or eliminated altogether.







Commercial Halibut Vessel
Public Domain






Logging-

Because of the growth in the fishing and mining industries, the demand for lumber increased. Another opportunity to make money presented itself. Lumber mills began to develop in order to meet the needs of the growing industries in the state. Logging has contributed to the economy of Alaska, and is still prevalent throughout the state. Due to conservation efforts, logging is highly regulated, creating a limited supply and preserving the resource for the future.

Agricultural Endeavors-

Many agricultural endeavors were attempted in Alaska in the past 140 year. Many of these attempts were the result of the need for food of citizens in the state. Many attempted to farm crops that would help sustain the growth and development throughout the state. Also, attempts were made at raising cattle, sheep, fox, and reindeer. Several attempts ended in failure. It was discovered that certain regions of the state could sustain these endeavors but few resulted in significant economic contributions.

Tourism-

Tours of Alaska became available in the ate 1800's. These vacations were very expensive, resulting in few visitors. A boom in tourism occurred after World War II. The development of the Alaska Railroad, the Alaska Marine Highway, and the Alcan highway created more opportunities for tourists to visit the state. Today, tourism creates many seasonal jobs and brings many tourists with wallets of money to spend in the Alaska.

Examine Question:

What has been, over time, the pattern of development for Alaska's fur trapping and trading, commercial sealing, whaling, and fishing?

It is obvious that fur trapping, sealing, whaling, and fishing were heavily impacted by over-harvesting in the early years of the industries. In the early years, trapping and trading were leading in economic importance in the state. Large amounts of money was made during large harvest years. Although much money was made in the industry, the resource availability was unpredictable, causing trouble for Natives and others who depended on the fur market.

Because of over-harvesting numbers dwindled, thus impacting the availability of resources in the following years. Results of the mass slaughters were devastating to the industry. Regulations were imposed on fur trapping, sealing, whaling, and fishing. The need to protect these animals from extinction eliminated this market altogether.

Extend:

What is the economic base for your area of Alaska? Also, share any current issues confronting the local residents.

The economy on Prince of Wales island is driven by logging and commercial fishing. Prince of Wales island is home to the first American shore-based saltery in the state which is located in Klawock. Many relics of the past exist due to the fact that the fishing industry is not what it was in the past. That being said, the industry does continue to provide some economic stimuli. Logging is also an economic pursuit. Although highly regulated and restricted, jobs are still created because of the industry.


Evaluate:

Again, a busy week with much information to cover. I found the information quite intriguing. It is taking me much time to cover the information. I still struggle with formatting and getting images for my blog. I find it especially frustrating to cite where images come from. I will be working on that over the week.

Colleague Reviews for Module IV:

Gary's Alaska Blog
I enjoyed Gary's summary of Russian America. I also thought he had great pictures as well.

Robin's Surveying Alaska History
I felt that Robin had great insights on the Russian Orthodox church. I also connected with her as she is struggling with photos and captions on her blog.

Heather's Alaska Exploration
Heather also presented a great summary of Russian America. Her layout, pictures, and cited resources were fantastic.

Module IV - Russian America

Essential Question:

What was the nature of cultural contact between the Europeans of Russian America and the Natives of Alaska?

The Europeans of Russia began exploring the areas of Alaska having lasting impacts on the region. It is interesting to examine and explore the history of Alaska as we keep in mind cause and effect. It is important to also remember that Russian colonization took place over a period of time and was not one incident or an isolated event. The Europeans of Russian America came to Alaska for several reasons but the main reason was fur. The well kept records of the Russian explorers displays interesting insight of the explorers and their first impressions of the areas and the Native people they encountered.

http://vilda.alaska.edu/u?/cdmg11,11932
Territory ceded to US by Russia - UAF-G4370 1867 U551

The search for fur was the driving force behind Russian colonization. This colonization had a huge impact on the Natives in regions throughout Alaska. The largest impact was the effect of the various diseases that the Russians and other European explorers brought into the regions of Alaska. Many Natives perished because of these illnesses. Their delicate immune systems were not prepared to battle the diseases brought by the explorers.

From what I understand, many people are still being affected in an indirect way because of the Russian influences in Alaska. Because of the fur trade and over-harvesting of sea otters, laws were put into place to protect the species. I have listened to long-time citizens in my area discuss the impacts of these laws. Many now believe that because sea otters are protected they are rebounding with great force. It has been questioned whether the abalone populations have declined immensely because of the large populations of sea otters. Balance is again in question.

Examine Question:

What were the various economic ventures of the Russian America Company?

Fur trade was not the only economic venture of the Russian America Company. Many other business opportunities presented themselves as a result of the fur trade. Another example of cause and effect. Fur trading brought other economic ventures such as ship building, agriculture, hunting, fishing, mining, and manufacturing.


Agriculture became important due to the fact that the explorers needed food to in order to survive. As stated on the Alaska History and Cultural Studies website, the crops that were planted were wheat, barley, peas, beans, turnips, beets, mustard, parsnips, potatoes, and gourds. The first seasons crops were destroyed because of birds, mice, and flooding. It turned out that the best crops to raise in the area were barley, cucumbers, cabbage, potatoes, rutabagas, and turnips. The island of Kodiak also witnessed attempts at cattle raising. At this time it was so difficult to obtain enough food for the cattle to eat over the winters that the efforts were abandoned. It is still possible to see effects of the attempts of the cattle raising today, as wild cattle still roam the island.

Ship building was an industry that began as a result of efforts from Alexander Baranov in 1793 at a location nearby the current area of Seward, Alaska. Local resources were used in the construction of the large ships. These ships became important for the development of the area. They were used to transport goods to and from Russian America. Eventually ships were being purchased from the United States because they lasted longer due to the fact that they were built from harder lumber which led to the disappearance of the industry in Alaska.

Fishing and whaling also helped the progression of settlements. In the beginning fishing and whaling helped sustain the inhabitants of the regions of Alaska but eventually the people were able to harvest enough to begin trading and transporting it back to Russia.

Manufacturing of bricks and ice were other attempts at economic endeavors. Neither lasted long. It was less expensive for bricks to be purchased from Canadian regions and the demand for ice diminished. With no market for either item, production ceased.

A great deal of effort was put into coal mining but proved to be without profit. There were many reasons for the mining attempt failure. It turned out that purchasing coal was less expensive from other sites which effected demand for the coal in Alaska. The decision to close the mine came after a fire damaged the site.

It is apparent that all economic endeavors developed from a legitimate need for goods that would help people prosper in the land. Little physical evidence exists in Alaska from the economic attempts of the Russians.

Evaluate:

Again, I found the content of this weeks module fascinating. I am enjoying learning new things about Alaska that I had not known before. I knew little about the economic endeavors pursued by the Russians in the Alaska territory. My struggle continues to lie in blogging. I am struggling with the format of my blog. I need to spend some time on YouTube trying to figure out how to get web pictures in my blog and have them look appropriate. The blogging is taking me more time than I had anticipated.

Colleague Reviews for Module III

Holly Cervin expressed her concern for the loss of Native culture specifically in the Tlingit culture. I have had discussions with many Natives in my area that express the same concerns and are actively trying to preserve their culture.

Joel Moorman shared some interesting personal experiences that helped me better understand the culture in Toksook Bay.

Joan Walser expressed some interesting insight on what being "Alaskan" means and brought up the question of whether there is a point when a person becomes a true "Alaskan" or is it more of an evolution to "Alaskan". I will keep thinking on the idea.