Old Sitka Site facts for kids
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Redoubt St. Archangel Michael Site
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This Russian plate was buried at the time of the settlement's establishment, and is now in the Russian Bishop's House in Sitka.
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 Location in Alaska
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| Location | Mile 6.9 of Halibut Point Road, about 6 miles (9.7 km) north of Sitka |
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| Nearest city | Sitka, Alaska |
| Area | 5 acres (2.0 ha) |
| Built | 1799 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000166 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | June 13, 1962 |
The Redoubt St. Archangel Michael Site, also known as the Old Sitka Site, is a very important historical place. It is now part of Old Sitka State Historical Park near Sitka, Alaska. This site is special because it was the first non-Native settlement on Baranof Island. It was built by the Russian-American Company a long time ago. Today, archaeologists study the area to learn about its past. This site was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1962. It became a state park in 1966.
Contents
History of Old Sitka
The First Settlement
In 1779, a man named Alexander Baranov came to the Sitka area. He was a leader of the Russian-American Company. This company was involved in fur trading. Baranov wanted to build an outpost for his company. He talked with the local Tlingit people about finding a good spot.
He really liked a place now called Castle Hill. But the Tlingit people gave him a different location. This spot was on Starrigavan Bay. It's the same place we call the Old Sitka Site today.
Building the Redoubt
It took a while for the company to start building. In 1799, they finally set up their presence. They built several log buildings. These buildings were surrounded by a strong fence called a palisade. This settlement was named Redoubt St. Archangel Michael. A "redoubt" is a type of fort or stronghold.
Attack and Return
In 1802, the Tlingit people attacked the settlement. They destroyed the buildings and the palisade. The Russians had to leave the area.
However, the Russians returned to the area in 1804. This time, they came with more force. After a big fight called the Battle of Sitka, they built a new, permanent settlement. This new settlement was at Castle Hill. It is where modern Sitka is today.
Later Buildings and Discoveries
Even after the main settlement moved, other buildings were constructed at the Old Sitka Site. Replacements were built in 1808, 1823, 1836, and 1894. In 1900, an agricultural station was built there. It was later taken down after 1955.
Archaeologists started digging at the site in 1934 and 1935. They found many old items. They also figured out where the original Russian buildings once stood. Over the years, some parts of the site were damaged. This happened because of erosion and new construction.
Becoming a State Park
In 1966, the state of Alaska built a rest stop at the site. Now, it is managed as a state park. The site was officially named a National Historic Landmark in 1962. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. This important site helps us remember the early history of Alaska.
