Ketchikan - Alaska’s First City
FIRST LIGHT
When the ship is quiet, the peacefulness of the seas slowly eases you into your day.
A great way to start the day is a walk around the pool deck just as the sun breaks the horizon when many aren’t up.
5° 20' 32" N 131° 38' 46" W
Alaska’s most southeastern settlement and the twelfth most populated city is the small remote city of Ketchikan, sitting on 5 acres. In 1793, Revillagigedo Island was founded and named by Captain George Vancouver. The Tlingit definition of Ketchikan is creek aptly named for the creek flowing into the Tongass Narrows. Founded in 1885 by Mike Martin during his exploration of prospective cannery locations outside Oregon.
“Alaska’s first city” is the entry to the Inside Passage as you travel from the Pacific Northwest through the Puget Sound to the picturesque and awe-inspiring Alaska ports of call. Ketchikan is the desired port of call for cruise lines traveling from Seattle, which sits approximately 1,100km to the northwest.
Known by many as the Salmon Capital of the World because of fishing and original cannery, Ketchikan also boasts the most standing totem poles in the world. You can find a few around the city as you wander the waterfront shops.
However, I recommend a short walk up the hill from the port to the Totem Heritage Center. The park welcomes you in with multiple totems and the museum.
The cost of admission is worth every penny as you learn about the Tlingit, carvings, and stories about the heritage passed down through time.
Additionally, the center displays the hand craftsmanship of woven baskets, masks, blankets, regalia, and documentary photographs.
After you get your fill of nostalgia and traditions, slowly make your way along the scenic loop meandering Tongass Creek to view the salmon ladder as you return to the waterfront.
“All the smoked and dried salmon they had followed her, leaving Raven and his slaves with nothing but bullheads.”
Raven - Fog Woman Totem Pole
Carved in tribute to ancestors who have passed, documenting history, social occasions, and traditions, totem poles offer a visual storytelling process from top to bottom.
Nathan Jackson, the artist, and Master Carver, carved the story pole in style used by the Tongass Tlingits. In 1979, they erected the totem during the dedication of the heritage center. Jackson, from the Raven side of the Shilkoot-Tlingit tribe born into the Sockeye Clan.
The narrative begins with the introduction of the salmon. The Raven strikes his wife during a quarrel. She leaves and slips into the fog as he attempts to stop her. The salmon, both smoked and dried, traveled along with her leaving only bullheads behind for Raven and his slaves.
Here you will find a few outdoor totems, but more importantly, a fantastic museum filled with history, preserved poles, and the heritage and traditions these works of art portray.
Haida: Old Kasaan.
The pole serves as a rememberance.
Tlingit: Village Island.
A human hand holds a staff.
Koo.èex, Tlingit word for potlatch.
Honor people gathering at a party.
Are you looking for a great lunch?
Check out the 108 Tap House and Burger Bar!!
Get there early, as this quaint spot fills up quickly when a cruise ship is in port. We arrived at 11 am when they opened, and the line was out the door when we left.
Ever tried a smash burger? Me either, but I have to say I’m glad I’m not a local, or I’d live at this establishment—casual environment with excellent service and fantastic food. Who could ask for more?
I advocate for the Pacific Northwest Burger with Truffle Fries:
Beecher's Cheddar
Stout Mushrooms
Caramelized Onion
Coffee Maple Aioli
Butter Lettuce
Tomatoes
While my husband, Scott, suggests trying the 108 Burger and Onion Rings:
Bacon
Beecher's Cheddar
Truffle Aioli
Caramelized Onions
Butter Lettuce
Tomatoes
House-Made Pickles