Saxman Totem Park, Historic district with totem poles in Saxman, Alaska, United States.
Saxman Totem Park is an outdoor collection of totem poles and carved monuments set across wooded grounds in southeastern Alaska. The site features walking paths, a central gathering area, and log structures that let visitors view the intricate carvings on each pole up close.
The park was created in 1938 when the Civilian Conservation Corps, a government work program, gathered and restored totem poles from abandoned Tlingit villages across the region. This effort saved important artistic works that were disappearing over time.
The totems display carved symbols such as bears and ravens that hold specific meanings in Tlingit traditions, representing family histories and ancestral knowledge passed down through generations. As you walk among these poles, the carved symbols become a direct way to understand how the community preserved these important stories.
Walking paths make it easy to explore the site on foot, and the grounds are generally accessible year-round though they are most pleasant during warmer months. Wear sturdy shoes since the paths can be muddy and the area receives regular rainfall.
Among the wooden totems stands a marble grizzly bear statue that creates an unexpected visual contrast in the forest setting. Some poles also feature plaques honoring historical figures like Abraham Lincoln, blending national history with indigenous artistry.
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