In the heart of Southeast Alaska, amid the dense forests, stand the ancient sentinels of Tlingit heritage—totem poles. These towering monuments, deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest coast, narrate the stories, beliefs, and lineage of the Tlingit communities. The original totem poles, carved from the rich cedar from Southeastern Alaska, are emblematic of a tradition that spans centuries, reflecting the relationship between the Tlingit people and their environment.

Within the Sitka National Historic Park and the vibrant Totem Heritage Center, the legacy of the original Tlingit totem pole is meticulously preserved, offering a window into the soul of Alaska's indigenous cultures. 

Poles tell unique stories, for example, the stories of the Raven and Eagle Moiety or Mortuary poles that stand as final tributes to esteemed leaders. Shame poles, with their narratives of atonement and justice, and the iconic Seward pole, with its rich historical significance.

Tongass Island, with its lush, untouched landscapes, is the ancestral home of the Tongass Tribe of the Tlingit people, where the practice of carving totem poles is passed down through generations, keeping the spirit of the Tlingit ancestors alive. In these communities, totem parks serve not just as tourist attractions but as sacred sites where the stories of the Raven moiety, the symbology of the original totem pole, and the legacy of the indigenous peoples of Alaska converge, creating a living museum of Tlingit culture.

This article takes you on a journey to uncover the stories carved in the ancient cedars—the stories of Tlingit totem poles that continue to stand tall against the test of time as enduring symbols of identity and unity among the Pacific Northwest coast's indigenous peoples.

The Artistry and Craftsmanship of Totem Pole Creation

Creating a totem pole, from selecting the perfect western red cedar to the final touches of paint, is a process steeped in the traditions of Northwest Coast arts. This process is deeply rooted in the skill sets passed down through generations of Tlingit and Haida carvers. In places like Saxman Totem Park near Ketchikan and Sitka National Historical Park, visitors can witness the remarkable craftsmanship that goes into each pole, a hallmark of the rich Northwest Coast art tradition.

The Mortuary Pole

The Mortuary pole is perhaps one of the most significant totem poles among the Tlingit. These poles are created to honor and commemorate the deceased, often a respected community member. Mortuary poles typically feature a carved compartment near the top that houses the remains of the deceased, making them a sacred symbol of the transition between the earthly and spiritual worlds. The imagery carved into these poles reflects the memorialized individual's achievements, clan lineage, and status.

The Raven Moiety Poles

In Tlingit culture, society is divided into two primary moieties, or halves, one of which is the Raven moiety. Poles associated with the Raven moiety are rich in symbolism and imagery related to the raven, an important Tlingit mythology figure. These poles often tell stories of creation, transformation, and the interconnections of life, embodying the Raven clans' values, myths, and ancestral lineage. These carvings depict the raven and other figures significant to the Raven moiety's history and beliefs.

Shame Poles

Shame poles are a unique aspect of totemic art, serving as a public display of ridicule towards individuals, families, or clans who have wronged the community. These poles are erected to shame and provoke restitution for misdeeds, encapsulating stories of betrayal or unsettled debts. The imagery on these poles is often satirical, intending to shame the subject until amends are made, after which the pole is typically removed.

The Seward Pole

Named after William H. Seward, the US Secretary of State who facilitated the purchase of Alaska, it is an example of a pole that serves both as a narrative tool and a political statement. This pole illustrates the complex interactions and relationships between the Tlingit people and the United States government, capturing a moment in history and the Tlingit perspective on these events.

House Frontal Poles 

House Frontal poles are erected in front of Tlingit clan houses to illustrate the ancestry, stories, and social status of the clan members residing there. These poles are often the most elaborately carved and painted, showcasing the skill and artistry of the carver. 

These diverse types of totem poles create a rich tapestry that illustrates the complexity of Tlingit social structure, spirituality, and community life. They are living pillars of Tlingit heritage, each telling its own story and contributing to the collective memory and identity of the Tlingit people on the Pacific Northwest coast.

The Artistry and Craftsmanship of Totem Pole Creation

The creation of a totem pole, from the selection of the perfect western red cedar to the final touches of paint, is a process steeped in tradition and skill, passed down through generations of Tlingit and Haida carvers. In places like Saxman Totem Park near Ketchikan and Sitka National Historical Park, visitors can witness the remarkable craftsmanship that goes into each pole.

Selection and Preparation of Timber

The journey of a totem pole begins in the dense forests of the coastal Pacific Northwest, where carvers select the western red cedar for its durability and workability. This well-known local tree is the canvas for the carver's story, chosen carefully to ensure the original pole's longevity and integrity.

Carving Techniques and Tools

Traditional tools, such as adzes, chisels, and knives, are employed to shape the new pole, with modern carvers like Nathan Jackson also incorporating contemporary tools to refine their work. The process is a physical and spiritual journey, with each stroke imbuing the pole with cultural narratives and the carver's connection to their heritage.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The figures carved into each pole, from the killer whale to the majestic eagle, represent clan moieties, legends, and significant events. The human figure often crowns the pole, symbolizing the interconnectedness of the Tlingit or Haida people with the spiritual world. 

Color and Finishing

Traditionally, pigments were derived from natural materials, such as fish-egg paint, giving the poles distinctive hues. Today, traditional, and modern paints highlight the intricate details of each carving, bringing the stories to life.

Totem Poles as Cultural Landmarks

Across the coastal Pacific Northwest and British Columbia, totem poles stand as cultural landmarks, each telling a story of the people and the land. Places like Saxman Totem Park and Sitka National Historical Park serve as repositories of this rich tradition, housing historical and contemporary poles.

Memorial Poles

Like the Mortuary poles, memorial poles are erected to honor and remember the deceased, serving as a tangible connection between the past and present. These poles often feature a potlatch or ceremony to celebrate the individual's life and contributions.

The Lincoln and Seward Poles

The Lincoln Pole depicting President Abraham Lincoln and the Seward Pole in the Saxman Totem Park exemplify how totem poles serve as mediums for political and historical commentary, bridging the gap between indigenous narratives and wider historical events.

Preservation and Restoration Efforts

The Civilian Conservation Corps, during the 1930s, played a significant role in preserving totem poles, creating parks, and restoring aging poles to their former glory. Contemporary efforts continue to focus on preserving these cultural treasures for future generations.

Contemporary Totem Pole Carving

Artists like Nathan Jackson lead the way in the modern revival of totem pole carving, blending traditional techniques with contemporary themes. This new wave of poles continues to celebrate the rich heritage of the Tlingit and Haida peoples while addressing modern issues and stories.

The Living Legacy of Totem Poles

From the ancient forests of Haida Gwaii to the bustling streets of Ketchikan and in the Alaska State Museum, totem poles stand as sentinels of the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. These poles, whether serving as memorial markers, house posts, or cultural commentaries, continue to be a vibrant expression of native arts, storytelling, and identity. As new poles rise alongside the originals, the tradition of totem carving remains a dynamic and enduring testament to the resilience and creativity of the Tlingit, Haida, and other indigenous communities of the coastal Pacific Northwest.