Wrangell

Wrangell is a city on Wrangell Island in Alaska, occupying the northern section of the island with forested terrain and a natural harbor. The settlement sits at a strategic location for vessels traveling through Southeast Alaska.

The settlement began as Fort Stikine in 1834 when Baron Ferdinand Petrovich Wrangel established it as a Russian trading post. The location served an important function in early European presence along the Alaska coast.

The Tlingit name Ḵaachx̱ana.áakʼw refers to the saltwater inlet of Wrangell Harbor, which historically dried at low tide before dredging. This waterway still shapes how the community looks and functions today.

The Alaska Marine Highway ferry system and Alaska Airlines provide regular connections to other Southeast Alaska destinations. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when weather is more stable and more activities are available.

The Wrangell Sentinel was founded in 1902 and remains Alaska's longest continuously published newspaper. This local paper has documented community stories for over a century.

Location: Alaska

Inception: 1834

Elevation above the sea: 21 m

Part of: organized borough

Shares border with: Petersburg Borough, Prince of Wales–Hyder Census Area, Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine

Website: http://wrangell.com

GPS coordinates: 56.47083,-132.37667

Latest update: December 14, 2025 10:08