A New Dawn in Metlakatla

“Metlakatla: Embracing Our Heritage, Celebrating Our Future”

In the heart of the Annette Islands, nestled amidst the serene beauty of Alaska, lies the vibrant community of Metlakatla. This is a place where the whispers of the past blend harmoniously with the aspirations of the future. The Tsimshian people, with their deep-rooted traditions and unwavering spirit, have called this land home for generations. Today, Metlakatla stands on the brink of a new dawn, a time of celebration and opportunity.

The sun rose over the tranquil waters, casting a golden hue on the bustling village below. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and song as the community gathered for the annual Heritage Festival. This year, the festival held a special significance. It was not just a celebration of their rich culture and history, but also a beacon of hope for the future.

Elders shared stories of their ancestors, recounting tales of resilience and unity. The younger generation listened intently, their hearts swelling with pride. They knew that the strength of their community lay in these stories, in the lessons passed down through the ages. As the day progressed, traditional dances and songs filled the air, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Tsimshian people.

But this year, the festival also marked the beginning of a new chapter for Metlakatla. The community had come together to embrace opportunities for growth and development. Plans were underway to attract new businesses and create jobs, ensuring a prosperous future for all. The Metlakatla Development Corporation had been working tirelessly, forging partnerships and exploring innovative ways to boost the local economy ¹.

One of the most exciting projects was the restoration of historical buildings, transforming them into vibrant hubs for tourism and commerce. These efforts not only preserved the architectural heritage of Metlakatla but also created new avenues for employment and business. The community was also exploring sustainable practices, ensuring that development did not come at the cost of their precious natural resources ¹.

As the festival drew to a close, the community gathered around a bonfire, their faces illuminated by its warm glow. The Tribal Council members spoke of the bright future that lay ahead, a future built on the foundations of their rich heritage and the collective efforts of every member of the community. They spoke of the new jobs that would be created, the businesses that would thrive, and the opportunities that would ensure a better life for all.

In that moment, under the starlit sky, the people of Metlakatla felt a renewed sense of purpose and unity. They knew that by honoring their past and embracing the future, they could create a thriving community for generations to come. The journey ahead was filled with promise, and together, they would make Metlakatla a beacon of hope and prosperity.

September 21, 2024 0

The Angry Sea of Metlakatla

“A Tale of Respect and Harmony with Nature”

In the heart of Metlakatla, where the Tsimshian people have lived for generations, there lies a tale of the Angry Sea. This story has been passed down through the ages, whispered by the elders around the fire, and carried by the winds that sweep across the village.

Long ago, the sea was calm and generous, providing the Tsimshian with an abundance of fish and a safe passage for their canoes. The people lived in harmony with the waters, respecting its power and bounty. But one fateful day, a great storm brewed on the horizon, unlike any the villagers had ever seen.

The sky darkened, and the winds howled with a fury that shook the very foundations of the earth. The sea, once a friend, turned hostile and unrecognizable. Waves as tall as the tallest cedar trees crashed against the shore, and the ocean roared with a voice of thunder. The villagers knew this was no ordinary storm; it was the Angry Sea, awakened and wrathful.

Elder Naaxhi, a wise and respected leader, gathered the people in the longhouse. “We must appease the sea,” he said, his voice steady despite the chaos outside. “We have taken much from it, and now it demands respect and balance.”

The villagers, guided by Elder Naaxhi, prepared offerings of their finest fish, woven blankets, and carved totems. They ventured to the shore, where the waves threatened to swallow them whole. With great reverence, they cast their offerings into the tumultuous waters, singing songs of peace and gratitude.

For hours, they stood united, their voices rising above the storm. Slowly, the sea began to calm. The waves receded, and the winds softened to a gentle breeze. The sky cleared, revealing a brilliant sunset that painted the horizon in hues of gold and crimson.

The Angry Sea had been appeased. The villagers returned to their homes, grateful and humbled by the experience. From that day forward, they honored the sea with annual ceremonies, never forgetting the lesson of respect and balance.

And so, the story of the Angry Sea of Metlakatla lives on, a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of living in harmony with the world around us.

September 8, 2024 0

Passing the Torch: A Story of New Pioneers

Passing the Torch: A Story of New Pioneers

Embracing Legacy, Forging the Future

In the heart of the Tsimshian land, where the ancient forests whisper tales of old, a new generation rises. They are the children of the earth, the sky, and the sea, born with the spirit of their ancestors and the vision of the future. This is the story of how the torch was passed to them, a generation made for more.

Elders gathered in the great longhouse, their faces etched with the wisdom of countless seasons. They spoke of the past, of the struggles and triumphs that shaped their people. But their eyes shone with hope as they looked upon the young faces before them. These were not just children; they were leaders, pioneers, and dreamers.

“Today, we pass the torch,” said Chief Haida, his voice resonating with pride. “You are the generation who will carry our legacy forward. You are not afraid to take steps into the unknown, to carve new paths where none exist. You are the new pioneers.”

The young ones listened, their hearts swelling with purpose. They knew who they were and who they were in the Creator. They understood that their identity was rooted in the sacred traditions of their people, yet their destiny was to forge a new path.

Among them was Aiyana, a girl with eyes as deep as the ocean and a spirit as fierce as the eagle. She stood tall, her heart beating with the rhythm of the drum. “We are not just here to tend the graves of our ancestors,” she said, her voice clear and strong. “We are here to live lives worth living, to share and care for one another, to build a future that honors our past but is not bound by it.”

The elders nodded, their hearts warmed by her words. They saw in her and her peers the embodiment of their hopes and dreams. This generation was indeed made for more. They were ready to lead, to innovate, and to inspire.

As the torch was passed, the flames danced with a new vigor, illuminating the path ahead. The young leaders took their first steps forward, unafraid and united. They were the generation of new pioneers, and their journey had just begun.

August 21, 2024 0

David A. Boxley: The Heartbeat of Tsimshian Heritage

Carving Stories, Singing Traditions, and Building Community

In the heart of Metlakatla, Alaska, lived a man named David A. Boxley, a master carver and a beacon of Tsimshian culture. David’s journey began with a deep connection to his ancestors, whose stories and traditions he cherished and sought to revive.

David’s hands were skilled, and his heart was full of passion for his craft. He carved magnificent totem poles, each one telling a unique story of the Tsimshian people. His totem poles were not just art; they were a bridge to the past, a way to keep the culture alive. One of his most notable works was a 30-foot Raven story totem pole, which stood proudly at the Canadian Pavilion in Walt Disney World ¹. This totem pole, along with others he created, became symbols of pride and resilience for his community.

But David’s talents didn’t stop at carving. He was also a gifted musician and songwriter. He formed the Git Hoan Dancers, a group dedicated to performing traditional Tsimshian songs and dances. Through their performances, David and the Git Hoan Dancers shared the legends and stories of their people, educating and entertaining audiences around the world ¹.

David’s love for his community was evident in everything he did. He taught carving and language classes, ensuring that the younger generations could carry on the traditions of their ancestors. He was particularly passionate about preserving the Tsimshian language, Sm’algyax, which was on the verge of extinction. David’s efforts to revive the language included hosting classes in Metlakatla and other Alaskan communities ¹.

One of David’s most touching projects was the Cindy James Memorial Totem Pole, created in honor of his late sister-in-law. This totem pole, placed at Northwest Hospital, served as a symbol of hope and healing for patients and their families ¹.

David A. Boxley’s legacy is one of dedication, artistry, and love for his community. Through his totem poles, songs, and tireless efforts to preserve Tsimshian culture, he ensured that the spirit of his people would live on for generations to come.

The Potlatch of 1982 holds a special place in the history of the Tsimshian people, particularly for David A. Boxley. This event marked a significant revival of traditional practices and cultural pride.

In 1982, David Boxley hosted a potlatch in Metlakatla, Alaska, which was a monumental occasion for the Tsimshian community. This potlatch was not only a celebration but also a powerful statement of cultural resilience and renewal. It was during this event that David was given the Sm’algyax name “Ksgooga Yaawk,” which means “First to Potlatch”¹. This name was a recognition of his efforts to revive and sustain Tsimshian traditions.

The potlatch featured traditional songs, dances, and the sharing of stories, all of which played a crucial role in preserving the Tsimshian heritage. It was a time for the community to come together, honor their ancestors, and pass down their cultural knowledge to the younger generations. The event also showcased David’s incredible totem poles and carvings, which served as visual representations of the stories and values of the Tsimshian people.

This potlatch was a turning point for David and his community, reinforcing their commitment to cultural preservation and education. It inspired many to continue the work of keeping their traditions alive, ensuring that the rich heritage of the Tsimshian people would endure for future generations.

August 9, 2024 0

The Totem of Pride: Tyee’s Journey

A Young Boy’s Quest to Honor His Heritage and Inspire His Community

In the heart of Metlakatla, a small village nestled on Annette Island, lived a young boy named Tyee. Tyee was known for his curiosity and love for the stories of his ancestors. He would often sit by the fire, listening intently as the elders shared tales of bravery, wisdom, and the deep connection between their people and the land.

One day, Tyee’s grandfather, Chief K’eyush, called him over. “Tyee,” he said, “our community needs a new totem pole to honor our heritage and guide our future. I believe you are ready to carve it.”

Tyee’s eyes widened with both excitement and fear. “But Grandfather, I have never carved a totem pole before. What if I make a mistake?”

Chief K’eyush placed a reassuring hand on Tyee’s shoulder. “You have the heart and spirit of our ancestors within you. Trust yourself, and remember, I am here to guide you.”

With determination, Tyee began his work. Each day, he would carve a little more, drawing inspiration from the stories he had heard. He carved the eagle to symbolize strength, the bear for courage, and the salmon for perseverance. The work was challenging, and there were moments when Tyee doubted himself. But each time, he remembered his grandfather’s words and pressed on.

Months passed, and the totem pole neared completion. The entire village gathered for the unveiling ceremony. As the cloth was lifted, revealing Tyee’s masterpiece, a hush fell over the crowd. The totem pole stood tall and proud, a testament to the rich heritage of their people.

Chief K’eyush stepped forward, his eyes glistening with pride. “Tyee, you have done more than carve a totem pole. You have woven our stories into wood, creating a legacy for future generations. I am proud of you.”

Tyee felt a warmth spread through his chest. He realized that the journey had not just been about carving a totem pole, but about discovering his own strength and the power of his heritage. With a smile, he looked at his grandfather and said, “Thank you, Grandfather. I am proud to be a part of our community.”

August 2, 2024 0

“The Spirit of Metlakatla: Alexander’s Stand”

“A Tale of Courage and Heritage”

In the heart of Metlakatla, where the whispers of ancient Tsimshian spirits mingled with the rustling of the cedar trees, a fierce spiritual battle raged on. Alexander, a guardian of his town and its rich heritage, stood resolute. His eyes, reflecting the strength of his ancestors, scanned the horizon as he prepared for the fight of his life.

The town had always been a sanctuary, a place where history and culture thrived. But now, dark forces threatened to erase its essence. Shadows crept through the streets, seeking to sow discord and despair among the people. Yet, Alexander, with his unwavering faith and deep connection to the land, was determined to protect his home.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the waters, Alexander felt the presence of his ancestors. Their spirits, strong and resilient, surrounded him, lending their strength. He could hear their voices, a chorus of encouragement and wisdom, guiding him through the darkness.

With a heart full of courage, Alexander raised his staff, its carvings a testament to the stories and traditions of his people. He called upon the spirits of the land, the sea, and the sky, invoking their power to aid him in this battle. The air crackled with energy as the spirits responded, their presence a tangible force against the encroaching darkness.

The battle was fierce, but Alexander’s resolve never wavered. He fought not just with physical strength, but with the power of his spirit and the love for his community. Each strike of his staff was a declaration of his commitment to his town and its people. The shadows recoiled, unable to withstand the light of his determination.

As dawn broke, the first rays of sunlight pierced through the darkness, signaling the end of the battle. The shadows dissipated, retreating into the depths from which they came. Alexander stood victorious, his spirit unbroken. He had fought for his town, for his people, and had emerged triumphant.

The town of Metlakatla, bathed in the morning light, stood as a testament to the strength and resilience of its people. Alexander, with the spirits of his ancestors by his side, had ensured that their legacy would continue to thrive. The spiritual battle had been won, but the journey of preserving their heritage and culture would continue, guided by the unwavering spirit of their guardian.

Metlakatla, located on Annette Island in Alaska, is rich in heritage and culture, primarily of the Tsimshian people. Here are some key aspects of its heritage:

Historical Significance: Metlakatla, meaning “saltwater passage,” was founded in 1887 by a group of Tsimshian people led by Anglican missionary William Duncan. They relocated from British Columbia seeking religious freedom ¹.
Cultural Practices: The Tsimshian culture is vibrant and includes traditional song, dance, and arts. Longhouses, totem poles, and cedar bark baskets are significant cultural artifacts. The community often showcases these through performances and tours ².
Language: The nearly extinct Sm’algyax language is an integral part of the Tsimshian heritage. Efforts are ongoing to preserve and revitalize this language through tribal performances and educational programs ².
Community and Governance: The Metlakatla Indian Community (MIC) is the only Indian reserve in Alaska. Governed by the MIC Tribal Council, the community emphasizes self-governance, sustainability, and the preservation of their land and resources ³.
Historical Archives: Recently, Metlakatla launched a historical archive to preserve and share the stories and memories of its people. This initiative aims to ensure that future generations understand their heritage and the community’s history ⁴.

Metlakatla’s heritage is a testament to the resilience and cultural richness of the Tsimshian people, reflecting their deep connection to the land and their commitment to preserving their traditions for future generations.

July 29, 2024 0

The Tides of Resilience

Part I: The Call of the Sea

In the heart of Metlakatla, where the mist-kissed forests meet the icy embrace of the Pacific, there lived a man named Elias. Elias was a commercial fisherman, weathered by salt and wind, his hands etched with tales of struggle and survival. His boat, the Northern Gale, bobbed in the harbor, its hull bearing the scars of countless battles with tempests and tides.

Elias had inherited this life from his father, who had learned it from his father before him—a lineage woven into the very fabric of the village. The sea was their livelihood, their sustenance, and their silent companion. Each dawn, Elias would cast his nets, hoping for a bounty that would feed the hungry mouths of Metlakatla.

Part II: The Dance of Nets and Waves

The sea was capricious, sometimes yielding its treasures generously, other times withholding them like a jealous lover. Elias knew its moods—the playful ripples that promised abundance, the brooding swells that foretold storms. He navigated the labyrinth of fjords, his eyes scanning the horizon for signs of silver—salmon, halibut, and the elusive king crab.

One stormy night, as the waves crashed against the Northern Gale, Elias clung to the wheel, whispering ancient Tsimshian prayers. Lightning split the sky, revealing a shadow—a massive humpback whale entangled in his nets. Desperation and awe warred within him. He could cut the nets and free the majestic creature, but it meant sacrificing his livelihood. Or he could haul it aboard, risking his life for a fortune.

Part III: The Pact with the Sea

Elias chose compassion. With trembling hands, he sliced the nets, releasing the whale. It breached, its tail flukes slapping the water in gratitude. The sea, it seemed, approved of his choice. The next morning, Elias found his nets teeming with fish—more than he had ever seen. The village rejoiced, and whispers spread of the fisherman who danced with whales.

But Elias paid a price. The Northern Gale needed repairs, and winter storms threatened. He sought the counsel of his grandmother, wise in the old ways. She told him of a hidden cove, guarded by spirits, where he could find driftwood blessed by the ancestors. Elias set sail, guided by the moon and the stories of his people.

Part IV: The Driftwood Cove

In the cove, Elias found ancient cedar logs, their grain like memories etched in wood. He hauled them back to Metlakatla, where the village carpenter transformed them into a new mast for the Northern Gale. As Elias raised the mast, he felt the spirits watching—the same ones who had guided his ancestors across these waters.

The next season, the sea welcomed him. The Northern Gale glided like a seabird, its sails filled with ancestral winds. Elias caught fish aplenty, but it was more than that. He felt a kinship with the humpback whales, their songs echoing in his dreams. And when the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of salmon and gold, Elias knew he was part of a larger tapestry—a fisherman, yes, but also a guardian of the sea.

And so, Elias continued his dance with the tides—the ebb and flow of life, the sacrifices made, and the resilience that bound him to Metlakatla. For in the heart of a fisherman, the sea’s secrets whispered, and the legacy of his people sailed on.

July 26, 2024 0

Sky-Eyes: A Bridge of Legends

Embracing Uniqueness in the Mist of Metlakatla

In the heart of Metlakatla, where the mist clings to ancient cedar trees and the whispers of legends echo through the fjords, there lived a young girl named Kaya. She was different—her eyes held the colors of the midnight sky, and her laughter danced like the northern lights.

Kaya’s uniqueness set her apart from the other children in the village. While they played hide-and-seek among the totem poles, she wandered along the rocky shore, collecting seashells and listening to the secrets carried by the waves. Her grandmother, Tala, recognized this difference and encouraged it.

“Kaya,” Tala would say, “our people have always been the keepers of stories. We weave them into our blankets, carve them into our canoes, and sing them under the moon. Your difference is a gift—a bridge between our past and our future.”

But Kaya didn’t always feel like a bridge. At school, her classmates teased her for her quiet nature and her fascination with the old legends. They called her “Sky-Eyes” and laughed when she spoke of the Raven Clan and the spirit bears. Kaya longed to fit in, to be like the others—to blend seamlessly into the fabric of the community.

One day, during the annual Salmon Festival, Kaya watched as her peers danced in a circle, their laughter rising like smoke from a cedar fire. She stood on the outskirts, feeling like an outsider. The rhythm of the drums pulsed through her veins, urging her to join, but doubt held her back.

That’s when she noticed an old man sitting on a driftwood log. His eyes crinkled at the corners, and his hands bore the scars of countless fishing seasons. Kaya approached him, drawn by the wisdom etched into his weathered face.

“Are you not dancing, child?” he asked, his voice as gentle as the breeze.

Kaya hesitated. “I don’t belong,” she confessed. “I’m different.”

The old man chuckled. “Different? Ah, that’s a word for storytellers. You see, Kaya, the salmon don’t all swim the same way. Some leap waterfalls, while others find hidden coves. But they all return to their roots—their spawning grounds. You, my dear, are like a salmon with sky-colored scales. Embrace your journey.”

His words stayed with Kaya. She began to write down the legends she heard from Tala—the tale of the Thunderbird and the Whale, the song of the cedar flute, and the flight of the first raven. She painted these stories on canvas, capturing the magic of her heritage.

Soon, the village noticed. Kaya’s art adorned the community center, and people gathered to listen as she recited the old tales. She wasn’t just different; she was a bridge—a storyteller who wove threads of memory into the fabric of the present.

And so, Kaya danced. Not in circles, but along the shore, her feet sinking into the sand. She swirled like the aurora borealis, celebrating her uniqueness. The other children joined her, their laughter blending with the rhythm of the waves.

Kaya learned that fitting in wasn’t about becoming like everyone else; it was about finding her place within the grand tapestry of Metlakatla. She realized that being different was not a flaw—it was her superpower.

And as the seasons turned, Kaya’s eyes continued to hold the colors of the midnight sky, reflecting the stories of her ancestors. She knew then that she was not just okay; she was extraordinary.

And so, in the heart of Metlakatla, where the mist clings to ancient cedar trees, Kaya danced—her laughter echoing through time, a bridge between worlds.

July 21, 2024 0

From Tsimshian Shores to SEAL Teams: The Legend of Solomon Atkinson

Beneath the Northern Lights, His Journey Unfolded

Once upon a time, in the rugged coastal village of Metlakatla, Alaska, there lived a man named Solomon “Sol” Atkinson. Born in 1930, Sol was a Ts’msyen (Tsimshian) Native American, deeply connected to both his heritage and his community. His life would become a tapestry woven with bravery, service, and legend.

As a young boy, Sol learned resourcefulness from the land and the sea. The support of his tight-knit community shaped him, teaching him resilience and kindness. But it was his ancestors’ legacy that truly set him apart. Sol belonged to the Gitlaan clan of the Xpi’hanaḵ house in the Tsimshian nation, a lineage that followed the matriarchal line—a society rich in tradition and wisdom.

When Sol enlisted in the Navy in 1952, he etched his name into history. He became the first Alaska Native to join the underwater demolition teams, the predecessors to the renowned SEAL Teams. As the SEALs emerged in 1962, Sol’s commitment led him to become one of the inaugural Navy SEALs—a plank owner, a foundational member, of SEAL Team 1¹ ². His courage and dedication shone during conflicts in Korea and Vietnam, where he repeatedly risked his life for his comrades and country¹.

But Sol’s legend extended beyond the battlefield. He championed his community, ensuring they had a pool that produced Alaska’s only certified scuba training program at the local high school¹. His love for Metlakatla ran deep, and he embodied the spirit of service and resilience that defined both his Native American heritage and his Navy SEAL legacy.

And so, the tale of Solomon Atkinson echoed through the misty Alaskan forests—a story of honor, courage, and the unbreakable bonds that tie us to our roots. Legends are born from deeds, but Sol’s legend was etched not only in valor but also in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy lives on, sailing across the seas as the USNS Solomon Atkinson, a tribute to an Alaska Native and Navy SEAL pioneer³.

And as the waves whispered against the shores of Metlakatla, they carried with them the story of Sol—a man who walked between worlds, leaving footprints in the sand and ripples in the ocean, forever etched in time. 🌊🌟

July 17, 2024 0

The Flight Within

“The Flight Within”

In the heart of Metlakatla, nestled among ancient cedar trees, lived a young woman named Kaya. She was a proud member of the Tsimshian tribe, deeply connected to her heritage and the wisdom passed down through generations. Kaya’s spirit soared like the eagles that graced the skies above her village.

But life wasn’t always smooth for Kaya. She faced storms within—emotional tempests that threatened to tear her apart. The weight of expectations, loss, and self-doubt pressed upon her shoulders. Yet, Kaya knew that just as the salmon returned to their spawning grounds, she too could find her way back to inner strength.

One crisp morning, Kaya stood at the edge of the ocean, watching the waves crash against the rocks. She longed for clarity, a beacon to guide her through the fog of her mind. And then, an old fisherman approached her.

“Kaya,” he said, his eyes crinkling with age, “the sea teaches us resilience. It endures storms, yet remains vast and unyielding. So must you.”

He handed her a smooth stone—a worry stone, he called it. “Hold this when your thoughts churn like the tides. Let it absorb your fears, and when you’re ready, cast it back into the water.”

Kaya clutched the stone, its coolness grounding her. She practiced mindfulness, focusing on each breath, each heartbeat. She danced with the wind, her feet rooted in the earth, and whispered gratitude to the cedar trees.

As seasons changed, Kaya explored other paths to mental wellness. She joined a community drum circle, feeling the rhythm resonate within her chest. She painted her dreams onto canvas, releasing emotions like colors onto a palette. And when the nights grew long, she sat by the fire, listening to elders’ stories—tales of resilience, survival, and kinship.

One day, Kaya met a pilot named Elias. His eyes held the vastness of the sky, and he spoke of freedom found in flight. Elias invited her to soar with him, promising that the cockpit was a sanctuary where worries dissolved like morning mist.

Kaya hesitated. Fear clung to her like barnacles on driftwood. But she remembered the worry stone, the drumbeats, and the elders’ wisdom. She climbed into the small plane, Elias at the controls. As they ascended, Kaya’s heart raced, yet she felt strangely calm.

The world transformed from a patchwork of forests and fjords to an expansive canvas. Kaya saw her village, the cedar longhouses, and the salmon-filled streams. She glimpsed her own struggles—a turbulent river winding through her soul. But up here, the river narrowed, its rapids smoothing into serenity.

Elias turned to her. “Kaya, flying isn’t just about the sky. It’s about trusting the currents, adjusting course, and finding balance.”

And so, Kaya learned to navigate her inner skies. She adjusted her mental altitude, seeking clarity above the clouds of doubt. She banked left when negativity threatened to pull her down, and right when hope beckoned.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Kaya felt a sense of completion. She had flown within herself, discovering resilience, purpose, and the power of community. The worry stone, the drumbeats, and the elders’ stories—they were her co-pilots.

Back on solid ground, Kaya held the worry stone one last time. She cast it into the ocean, watching it sink. The waves carried her fears away, leaving only strength in their wake.

And so, Kaya’s flight within continued—a journey toward mental health, guided by ancestral whispers and the promise of open skies.

July 16, 2024 0