Sitka, AK

Sitka, Alaska, holds great historical significance in the state and has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by the Tlingit people, who had a thriving culture and trade network in the region.

In 1799, Russian settlers led by Alexander Baranov arrived and established a fur trading post called Redoubt Saint Michael. This outpost eventually grew into a more permanent settlement known as New Archangel. Sitka served as the capital of Russian America, the territory controlled by the Russian Empire, from 1804 to 1867.

One of the most significant events in Sitka's history occurred in 1804 during the Russian-American Company's conflict with the Tlingit people. The Tlingit attacked the Russian settlement in what became known as the Battle of Sitka. Despite initial success, the Tlingit were eventually overwhelmed, and Russian control over the region was solidified.

In 1867, Russia sold Alaska to the United States in what is known as the Alaska Purchase. Following the sale, Sitka became a U.S. military garrison. The U.S. Army built Fort Sitka for protection and control of the region.

In 1867, Sitka served as the site for the ceremonial transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States. The ceremony took place in the same building where the Battle of Sitka had occurred, which was eventually named "Castle Hill" and became a prominent historical site.

For a short period from 1867 to 1877, Sitka served as the capital of the Department of Alaska, the administrative headquarters for the U.S. government in the territory. However, the capital was eventually moved to Juneau due to logistical and transportation issues.

Sitka played a significant role in the development of the Alaskan Native civil rights movement. In 1944, the Alaska Native Brotherhood and Sisterhood, organizations advocating for the rights of Alaska Natives, were founded in Sitka. These organizations fought for Native land claims, educational opportunities, and the protection of cultural heritage.

Today, Sitka is a vibrant community known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural influences. The city celebrates its diverse heritage, with events such as the Sitka Summer Music Festival, Sitka WhaleFest, and the Alaska Day Festival, which commemorates the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States.

The history of Sitka is a testament to the blending of Native Tlingit traditions, Russian colonial influence, and subsequent American development, making it a unique and significant place in Alaskan history.

Sitka National Historical Park

Home to the iconic Totem Poles, this park showcases the rich history and culture of the local Native American Tlingit people. It also offers beautiful hiking trails and scenic views.

St. Michael's Cathedral

One of Sitka's most prominent landmarks, this Russian Orthodox church is a beautiful architectural gem with intricate artwork and a rich history.

Alaska Raptor Center

A rehabilitation facility for injured birds of prey, visitors can learn about these majestic creatures and even watch them being cared for, with the opportunity to see some up close.

Sheldon Jackson Museum

This museum displays a remarkable collection of Native Alaskan artifacts, showcasing the diverse cultures and heritage of the region.

Sitka Sound Science Center

Explore the marine and coastal ecosystems of Alaska through interactive exhibits and educational programs. There's also an aquarium where you can see local marine life.

Sitka Historical Museum

Housed in a historic building, this museum offers exhibits and artifacts that take you through Sitka's fascinating past, from its Russian days to the present.

Fortress of the Bear

A sanctuary for rescued bears, this facility provides a natural habitat for orphaned or injured bears. Visitors can observe and learn about these incredible creatures from a safe distance.

Sitka Fine Arts Camp

Operating during the summer months, this camp provides arts education and hosts various performances, concerts, and exhibitions.

Sitka Sound Science Center Aquarium

Located on Sheldon Jackson Campus, this aquarium showcases marine life found in Sitka's coastal waters, including fish, invertebrates, and seaweeds.

Whale Watching Tours

Sitka is known for its abundant marine wildlife, and taking a whale watching tour offers the chance to see humpback whales, killer whales, sea otters, and other marine species in their natural habitat.

Sitka, Alaska, has a maritime climate that is classified as a subpolar oceanic climate. Sitka experiences relatively cool temperatures and receives a significant amount of precipitation throughout the year. Here are some key characteristics of the climate in Sitka:

Temperature

Sitka tends to have cool temperatures throughout the year. Winters are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 30°F (-1°C) to 40°F (4°C). Summers are cool, with average highs around 60°F (16°C) to 65°F (18°C). The highest temperature recorded in Sitka was 88°F (31°C), while the lowest was -6°F (-21°C).

Rainfall

Sitka is known for its abundant rainfall. The city receives approximately 87 inches (221 cm) of precipitation annually, which is significantly higher than the U.S. average. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months from October to January.

Snowfall

Sitka experiences moderate snowfall during winter. The city receives approximately 60 inches (152 cm) of snow annually. Snow usually falls from November to April, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February.

Cloudiness

Sitka is known for its cloudy weather. The city averages approximately 226 cloudy days per year, which means that over 60% of the year is cloudy. The cloud cover helps keep temperatures mild since sunlight is often limited.

Fog

Sitka frequently experiences fog, especially during the summer months. The city is located at the convergence of warm and cold ocean currents, which leads to the development of fog in the region. Fog can persist for several days, reducing visibility.

Wind

Sitka is also known for its strong winds, particularly during the fall and winter months. Winds are influenced by the surrounding mountains and the coastal geographic features of the region.

The maritime climate of Sitka contributes to its lush, green environment and abundant wildlife. The city is located in a temperate rainforest with dense forests and beautiful coastal scenery. It is important to note that weather conditions can vary day by day and may be influenced by the surrounding ocean and mountains.

Sitka, Alaska is a picturesque city located on Baranof Island in the southeastern part of the state. It encompasses a land area of approximately 4,811 square miles and is home to around 8,500 residents. Sitka is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. While the city itself is relatively small, it does have distinct neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics and amenities. Here are a few notable neighborhoods in Sitka:

Downtown

The heart of Sitka, the downtown area is home to many historic buildings, art galleries, shops, and eateries. Here, you'll find attractions like the Sitka National Historical Park, St. Michael's Cathedral, and the Sheldon Jackson Museum. Downtown Sitka offers a charming mix of Alaska Native culture and Russian history.

Sawmill Creek Road

Located south of downtown, Sawmill Creek Road is a residential area with stunning views of the ocean and mountains. It is a popular neighborhood for families, offering good schools, parks, and access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking and fishing.

Halibut Point Road

Situated on the eastern side of Sitka, Halibut Point Road is a picturesque area with waterfront properties and scenic views. It has a more rural atmosphere and provides easy access to trails, beaches, and nature reserves. This neighborhood is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more secluded lifestyle.

Sheldon Jackson

Located near the airport, Sheldon Jackson is a neighborhood that features the historic campus of Sheldon Jackson College. The area offers a mix of residential properties and educational facilities, with a focus on arts and culture. It is home to the Sitka Fine Arts Camp and the Sitka Summer Music Festival.

Starrigavan

Towards the north of Sitka, Starrigavan is a neighborhood known for its outdoor recreational opportunities. It comprises the Starrigavan Estuary State Recreation Site, which offers nature trails, picnic areas, and birdwatching. Starrigavan is a favorite spot for hikers, kayakers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Sitka, each with its own charm and appeal. Whether you are looking for historic buildings, scenic views, outdoor activities, or a close-knit community, Sitka has a neighborhood to suit your preferences.