Sitka Directory

Sitka Directory. . , (Side 1): , Russian Bishop's House , Built in 1842 by the Russian American Company as a residence for the bishop of the Orthodox Church, the Russian Bishop's House is one of the few surviving examples of Russian colonial architecture in North America. Considered the dominant power in the North Pacific at the time, imperial Russia established the Sitka site as the Russian colonial capital., Baranof Castle Hill , An early stronghold of the Kiksadi clan. A succession of Russian buildings were later erected on this site. The last one, known as "Baranof's Castle," was erected in 1837, and perished in a fire in 1898. On October 18, 1867, it was the site of the transfer of Alaska to the United States. Each year, Alaska Day is still celebrated on October 18. Castle Hill is a state historic site and also designated as a National Historic Landmark., St. Michael's Cathedral , An important collection of Russian Orthodox art and rare church treasures. Built in 1844-48, the church was totally destroyed by fire in January of 1966. Many of the precious icons and religious objects were salvaged and are in the rebuilt structure. St. Michael's Cathedral is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is located in the center of the Sitka downtown area., (Side 2): , Sitka National Historical Park , This 113-acre National Park preserves and commemorates the site of the Battle of 1804 between the Tlingit and colonial Russians. Haida and Tlingit totems from the Louisiana Exposition in the 1900s, as well more recently carved poles, are located along gravel pathways that meander through the rainforest. A beautiful visitor center houses a museum, video storytelling and native artist demonstrations., Sitka Pioneer Home , Built in 1934 on the old Russian Parade Ground, this is a state home for elderly Alaskans. Handicrafts made by the residents are sold in the gift shop located on the first floor. The pioneers welcome visitors. The 13-1/2 foot bronze statue standing in front of the Pioneer Home was made by Alonzo Victor Lewis and was dedicated on Alaska Day in 1949. The model was a real pioneer - William "Skagway Bill" Fonda. The Sitka Pioneer Home is on the National Register of Historical Places., Sheldon Jackson Museum , Sheldon Jackson Museum, founded in 1888, houses an exceptional collection of Alaska Native ethnographic material gathered by Presbyterian missionary and General Agent of Education for Alaska, the Rev. Dr. Sheldon Jackson. It is located at 104 College Drive, the museum is just a short walk along Lincoln Street, midway from downtown and Sitka National Historical Park. The octagon structure was the first concrete building in Alaska, and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972. A gift shop offers handmade Alaska Native art, jewelry, books, and many other treasures!