Harvesting of the Atom

Harvesting of the Atom. Amos Wallace, 1967. This totem pole tells the story of the harnessing of the atom. The pole was carved in 1967 by Tlingit carver Amos Wallace of Juneau. His Tlingit name was Jeet Yaaw Dustaa of the T'akdeintaan Clan of the X'áakw Hít Tlingit (Freshwater-marked Coho House). Wallace, an artist who worked in many different media was renowned for his carving and engraving. He died in 2004., In 1976, the pole was installed here at what is now the Juneau-Douglas City Museum. The traditional method of mounting a totem involves digging a hole for the lower end of the pole to rest in. Rocks line the hole to provide drainage and stability. By 2003, the totem had developed a distinct lean and was in danger of severe damage. It was removed from its original, traditional mount. A new aluminum support post was mounted in a concrete base to provide better stability and prevent further damage. Traditionally, a leaning pole might sometimes be propped up, but once fallen, it is generally left to return to the earth., Harnessing of the Atom is 15 feet tall and carved of western red cedar. Cedar is the most commonly used tree for carving totem poles because it withstands the elements so well. Decay is natural in totems exposed to the effects of wind, weather, insects and a hard life outside in the Southeast Alaska weather. Due to the organic material, cracks are natural and should not be seen as a flaw in the carving., http://www.juneau.org/parkrec/museum/. , Totem Figures , 1. Bald Eagle The eagle represents the United States and the purchase of Alaska from Russia. It also compliments Raven at the bottom. , 2. Russian Priest The priest represents Christianity and Russian influence in Alaska. , 3. Man and Sun Man is shown harnessing the power of the universe, which is represented by the figure of the sun. , 4. Raven Long ago Raven released the power of the sun, moon and stars for man.