My Favorite Totems
Read MoreThese 6 totem figures are known as the "Council of Clans." They are located near the main entrance to the Cape Fox Lodge in Kethchikan. The figure wearing a red button blanket is holding a staff known as the Naa Kaani pole (not visible in this photo). Speaking staffs were used at potlaches where the person holding it had the authority to mediate and bring order to the festivities.
Lee Wallace, the carver of these poles added a personal touch to the bear pole (the one in the center of the 5 facing the authority figure in the red button blanket). According to him, the small bear cub on the top of the pole was for his daughter who loved "Care Bears" when she was little. Although not visible in the photo, there is a small carved heart on the bear cub's behind!