Pioneer Square totem pole, Public artwork in Pioneer Square, Seattle, United States
The Pioneer Square totem pole is a carved red cedar artwork in Seattle featuring figures such as Raven, Mink, and other traditional characters. The pole stands approximately 50 feet tall and dominates the historic plaza with its detailed carved decorations.
The original pole came from a Tlingit village in Alaska and was brought to Seattle in 1899 by the Chamber of Commerce. Fire destroyed the first version in 1938, and Tlingit carvers created the replacement that stands today and was dedicated in 1940.
The pole displays Tlingit symbols and carved figures like the Raven that visitors notice when passing through the square. These representations tell stories of family connections and are observed today as part of the district's character.
The pole stands near multiple public transportation stops and serves as a central meeting point in the historic district. Visitors can easily explore the area on foot and find many shops and restaurants nearby.
The current version is actually a handcrafted reconstruction made by Tlingit artists after the original was destroyed. Each carved detail was recreated using traditional methods by the descendants of the original carvers.
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