Alaska, a land synonymous with majestic wildlife, towering glaciers, and the ethereal glow of the midnight sun, holds a treasure trove of cultural history that often goes unnoticed by its visitors. Beyond the expected allure of its natural wonders and gold rush remnants, Alaska harbors a rich tapestry of Russian heritage, a testament to a bygone era when the Russian Empire's reach extended across the Bering Strait. This article delves into the historical Russian influence in Alaska and spotlights the attractions that celebrate this often-overlooked aspect of the state's past.
When tourists set foot in Alaska, they are typically primed for encounters with the state's iconic wildlife and rugged landscapes. However, Alaska's narrative is incomplete without acknowledging its Russian roots. From the mid-18th century, Russian explorers and fur traders began to establish a foothold in the region, with figures like Vitus Bering leading the charge. The Russian-American Company, under the leadership of Grigory Shelikhov and later Alexander Baranov, played a pivotal role in expanding Russian settlements, including the establishment of the first permanent Russian settlement on Kodiak Island in 1784.
Alaska's Russian legacy is palpable in several locales, each offering a unique window into the past:
Unalaska's Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Ascension: Constructed in 1825, this cathedral is adorned with red roofs and green onion domes, characteristic of Russian architecture. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970 and underwent restoration in 1998. Today, it houses an impressive collection of religious artifacts and icons, one of the largest in the United States National Park Service.
Kodiak's Russian Influence: Kodiak retains its Russian ambiance, with street names and architecture reflecting its history. The Baranov Museum, housed in a warehouse from the 1790s, displays artifacts from Kodiak's Russian era. The Holy Resurrection Russian Orthodox Church, established in 1794, is adorned with icons and commemorates Saint Herman, the first priest canonized in the USA. The Veniaminov Research Institute Museum exhibits bibles and icons from the 1800s.
Sitka's Russian Landmarks: Sitka, once the capital of Russian America, is home to St. Michael's Cathedral, a striking blue, onion-domed church that was rebuilt after a fire in 1966, preserving many original icons and relics. The Russian Bishop's House, dating back to 1842, has been restored to reflect its historical role as a school, chapel, and residence. Sitka National Historic Park interprets the site of the 1804 battle between the Tlingits and the Russians National Park Service.
Despite the flourishing fur trade, Russian control over Alaska waned as American traders began to dominate the industry. The transfer of Alaska to the United States in 1867, known as "Seward's Folly," was initially met with skepticism. However, the subsequent discovery of gold vindicated the purchase. Alaska's statehood in 1959 further distanced it from its Russian past, yet the pride in this heritage endures, with cultural performances and historical sites inviting visitors to explore a different side of Alaskan identity.
Alaska's Russian heritage is not merely a historical footnote but a living tradition. Annual events, such as the celebration at Monks Lagoon for Father Herman's canonization, and institutions like the Saint Herman's Orthodox Theological Seminary in Kodiak, continue to honor this legacy. The New Archangel Dancers in Sitka perform authentic Russian dances, often coinciding with the arrival of cruise ships, allowing visitors to experience a piece of Russian culture firsthand.
In the Lutheran cemetery of Sitka, one can find the grave of Russian Princess Maksoutoff, wife of Alaska's last Russian governor, Dimitrii Maksoutoff, adding a romantic allure to the state's Russian connections. These attractions and events offer a unique perspective on Alaska's multifaceted history, one that encompasses more than just the wilderness and gold rushes that are commonly associated with the state.
Alaska's Russian heritage is a hidden gem, often overshadowed by the state's natural splendor and frontier spirit. Yet, for those who seek it out, this aspect of Alaskan culture provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the state's historical tapestry. Whether through the onion domes of its cathedrals, the Russian street names of Kodiak, or the dance performances in Sitka, Alaska's Russian past remains an integral part of its identity, waiting to be rediscovered by curious travelers.
