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Mink Totem Figure in Klawock, AK on Prince of Wales Island.
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Mink Totem Figure in Klawock, AK on Prince of Wales Island.

This figure was carved by internationally renowned Master Carver Nathan Jackson. The Klawock longhouse is in the background. Since this photo was taken in 1998 and the figure appeared to be relatively new at the time, I'd guess that it was probably carved it in 1997.

AlaskaKlawock Prince of Wales Island TotemsNathan JacksonPrince of Wales Island TotemsTotems

  • Three poles located outside the Ketchikan Indian Community Center Building.
  • These 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. <br /> <br /> 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!
  • This is one of the totems in the "Council of Clans," a circle of 6 totem figures located near the main entrance to the Cape Fox Lodge in Kethchikan. The Council of Clans was created and carved by Lee Wallace. This figure is known as the Naa Kaani pole. He is wearing a traditional button blanket and holds a speaking staff. Speaking staffs were used at potlaches where the person holding the staff had the authority to mediate and bring order to the festivities.
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  • Overview of totem park located at the public school in Klawock, AK. Klawock is a small village located 56 air miles west of Ketchikan on Prince of Wales Island. It is a major center of Tlingit culture and boasts the largest collection of authentic totem poles in Alaska. Carving is a required part of the curriculum in the Klawock public school system. Many of the poles in Klawock are currently being replicated because of their deterioration over the years.
  • Two Murry Ducks on a pole with clams. Klawock (Prince of Wales Island), AK
  • Two Murry Ducks on a pole with clams. Klawock (Prince of Wales Island), AK
  • A fallen totem on the Klawock, AK schoolgrounds looks skyward.
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  • Mink Totem Figure in Klawock, AK on Prince of Wales Island.
  • Jonathan O. Rowan, Jr. and his young apprentice in the carving shed in Klawock, AK. They are rolling over a carved whale that will be mounted atop a pole to be erected at the Klawock schoolyard. This pole is to be a replica of one that has deteriorated. Carving is a required part of the Klawock school curriculum where Jonathan teaches carving. This photo was taken by Albino Amador,
  • Loyd looking over the totem graveyard outside the carving shed in Klawock, AK. When a totem has reached the end of its useful life it is placed in a totem graveyard to deteriorate further and return to earth. They are not cut up and recycled by using them as firewood or for other purpses.
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