Sitka, Alaska

Raven/Shark totem pole

Many wonderful carved totem poles can be seen along the forest walk in the Sitka National Historic Park, Alaska. The original Raven/Shark pole was carved in 1903. Due to its deteriorated condition, a replica was carved by Tommie Jimmie Sr in 1978. From bottom to top there is a bear, wolf, shark and raven. It is postulated to be either a crest pole or a legend pole telling the story of Raven, who went underwater to a new world and fell in love with and married Shark, despite her shame at the ugliness of her skin and face. Raven, the legend goes, said true beauty comes from within.

totem poleravensharkwolfbearSitka National Historic Parklegend polecrest poleforest walkTlingitSitkaBaranhof IslandAlaska panhandle