National Register of Historic Places listings in Wrangell, Alaska facts for kids
Welcome to Wrangell, Alaska! This article will tell you about some really cool and important places in Wrangell that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Think of this register as a special list of buildings, sites, or objects that are super important to America's history and culture. When something is on this list, it means it's worth protecting and remembering for future generations.
In Wrangell, there are four places currently on this list. We'll also learn about one place that used to be on the list but isn't anymore. These sites help us understand the rich history of Wrangell, from its Native Alaskan roots to its more recent past.
Historic Places in Wrangell
These are the special places in Wrangell that are officially recognized for their historical importance.
Chief Shakes Historic Site
The Chief Shakes Historic Site is located on Shakes Island in Wrangell. This place is very important to the Tlingit people, who are Native Alaskans. It's named after Chief Shakes, a powerful leader of the local Tlingit tribe.
The site features a beautiful tribal house, which is a traditional meeting place and home. Around the house, you'll see amazing totem poles. These tall, carved poles tell stories of the Tlingit people's history, their families, and important events. They are like giant storybooks carved from wood! This site helps keep the Tlingit culture and history alive. It was added to the National Register on October 27, 1970.
Etolin Canoe
The Etolin Canoe is a very old and special canoe found in the Tongass National Forest near Wrangell. This canoe is a great example of the incredible craftsmanship of early Native Alaskans. It shows how they built large, sturdy boats to travel the waters for fishing, hunting, and trade.
This canoe is a valuable piece of history. It helps us imagine what life was like for the people who lived here long ago. It was added to the National Register on June 5, 1989.
Judith Ann Riverboat
The JUDITH ANN is a historic riverboat located at Mile 12.25 on the Zimovia Highway in Wrangell. Riverboats like the Judith Ann were once very important for transportation in Alaska. They helped move people and goods along rivers, especially before roads were common.
This particular riverboat gives us a glimpse into the past of travel and trade in the region. It reminds us of the challenges and ingenuity of people who explored and settled Alaska. The Judith Ann was added to the National Register on July 7, 2004.
Saint Philip's Episcopal Church
Saint Philip's Episcopal Church is an old and charming church located at 446 Church Street in Wrangell. This church has been a center of community life and worship for many years. Its architecture and history tell us about the early settlers and the development of Wrangell as a town.
Churches often served as important gathering places and symbols of community spirit in early Alaskan towns. Saint Philip's Episcopal Church was recognized for its historical significance and added to the National Register on May 6, 1987.
Former Listing
Sometimes, a historic place might be removed from the National Register. This usually happens if the building is destroyed or changed so much that it no longer looks like it did when it was considered historic.
Wrangell Public School
The Wrangell Public School was once located at 2nd and Bevier Streets in Wrangell. It was originally built as a school, where many generations of Wrangell's children learned and grew. Later, in 1931, the building was repurposed and became the town hall, serving as the center of local government.
This building was listed on the National Register on May 16, 1978. However, it was later demolished in 1996. Because the building no longer existed, it was removed from the National Register on May 10, 1996. Even though it's gone, its history as a school and town hall is still a part of Wrangell's story.
