Klawock
If you're here to learn about Klawock, Alaska, try to keep up. It's a city that exists, apparently, in the Prince of Wales–Hyder Census Area, within the U.S. state of Alaska. Specifically, it's perched rather precariously on the west coast of Prince of Wales Island, overlooking the Klawock Inlet, with Klawock Island itself providing a somewhat less interesting backdrop. Its Tlingit name, Lawáak, rolls off the tongue with a certain gravitas, unlike some of the administrative titles it's accumulated over the centuries.
The city, with coordinates precisely pinned at 55°33′18″N 133°05′07″W / 55.55500°N 133.08528°W, currently hosts a population of 720 residents, as recorded in the 2020 United States census. This figure represents a slight, almost imperceptible dip from the 755 recorded a decade prior in the 2010 census, and a more noticeable decline from the 854 counted in 2000. It's not exactly a bustling metropolis, but then again, one rarely seeks out bustling metropolises in this corner of the world. For those attempting to navigate their way here, Klawock lies approximately 90 kilometres (56 mi) southwest of Ketchikan, a mere 11 kilometres (6.8 mi) from Craig, and about 39 kilometres (24 mi) overland from Hollis.
The community holds the rather quaint, if not entirely self-congratulatory, nickname "Site of the First Salmon Cannery in Alaska." Its motto, "kla-na-kee-duk," is perhaps best left to those who understand its local significance.
Klawock: A Glimpse into its Foundation and Governance
| Klawock |
|---|
| Lawáak |
| Seal |
| Nickname: Site of the First Salmon Cannery in Alaska |
| Motto: kla-na-kee-duk |
| Location in Alaska |
| Coordinates: 55°33′18″N 133°05′07″W / 55.55500°N 133.08528°W |
| Country: United States |
| State: Alaska |
| Borough: Unorganized |
| Census area: Prince of Wales–Hyder |
| Founded: 1868 |
| Incorporated: October 29, 1929 |
| Government |
| • Mayor: Donald Nickerson Jr. |
| • State senator: Bert Stedman (R) |
| • State rep.: Rebecca Himschoot (I) |
| Area [3] |
| • Total: 0.97 sq mi (2.52 km2) |
| • Land: 0.68 sq mi (1.76 km2) |
| • Water: 0.29 sq mi (0.75 km2) (34.83%) |
| Elevation: 79 ft (24 m) |
| Population (2020) |
| • Total: 720 |
| • Density: 1,057.5/sq mi (408.32/km2) |
| Time zone: UTC-9 (AKST) |
| • Summer (DST): UTC-8 (AKDT) |
| Zip code: 99925 |
| Area code: 907 |
| FIPS code: 02-40400 |
| GNIS feature ID: 1423100 |
| Website: cityofklawock.com |
History
Klawock's origins are, predictably, rooted in practicality and seasonal migration. Its initial inhabitants were Tlingit people, who migrated from their more permanent northern winter village of Tuxekan. They established Klawock not as a year-round settlement but as a vital fishing camp during the warmer summer months. This seasonal utility led to a proliferation of names over time, each a slight variation reflecting linguistic evolution or perhaps just a general disinterest in consistent nomenclature: Klawerak, Tlevak, Clevak, and Klawak. The current name, "Klawock," is said to be derived from the Tlingit name Lawá, attributed to the man who founded this community. It's a testament to the enduring human need to name things, even if the names themselves are a bit fluid.
Historical records, for what they're worth, indicate that a Russian navigator in 1853 referred to the nascent village as "Klyakkhan," only to shift to "Thlewakh" by 1855. One wonders if the cartographer simply couldn't make up their mind, or if the village itself was in a constant state of rebranding.
The year 1868 marked a significant turning point, or perhaps, a regrettable intrusion, with the arrival of European Americans. They didn't come for the scenery, of course, but for profit, establishing a trading post and, more importantly for the local economy, a salmon saltery. This enterprise laid the groundwork for what would become a defining industry. Just a decade later, in 1878, a San Francisco firm, recognizing the vast potential of the Alaskan fishery, opened what is historically recognized as the first cannery in Alaska. This wasn't merely a local development; it was a pivotal moment in the economic history of the entire territory, setting a precedent for industrial-scale salmon processing. The success of this initial venture spurred the establishment of several other canneries in the ensuing decades, transforming Klawock into a hub of the burgeoning fishing industry. To facilitate the growing settlement and its commercial activities, a United States post office was established in 1882, cementing Klawock’s status as a recognized, if still remote, outpost. By the time the 1890 census rolled around, the town’s population had swelled to 260, a clear indicator of the economic draw of the salmon industry.
The early 20th century saw the rise of local advocacy. In 1912, the Alaska Native Brotherhood (ANB) and its female counterpart, the Alaska Native Sisterhood (ANS), were founded by residents of Klawock. These were not mere social clubs but crucial nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing the civil rights of Alaska Natives at a time when such rights were often ignored or actively suppressed. Their enduring legacy includes the construction of the Town Hall and a community center in 1939, a remarkable achievement given that it occurred during the depths of the Great Depression, relying on the collective effort of its founders and numerous volunteers.
By 1929, the town had achieved sufficient administrative complexity to be incorporated as a city. Further federal support arrived in 1934 when the United States Congress awarded funding for the expansion of the cannery. This largesse, however, came with a rather puritanical condition: the community was required to remain liquor-free. Simultaneously, the Klawock Cooperative Association, a nonprofit entity, was formed to assume management of the cannery, theoretically ensuring that the benefits of the industry would be shared more broadly within the community.
In a curious historical footnote, the year 1931 saw the rather brazen act of John Barrymore, the famed actor, looting a totem pole from the abandoned Tlingit village of Tuxekan. This cultural artifact remained in private hands for decades, a silent testament to colonial appropriation, until 2015 when, with a rare flash of historical rectitude, the pole was finally returned to the Tlingit people. One might say it took a while, but eventually, even stolen history finds its way home.
Geography
Klawock, for those with a penchant for precise coordinates, is situated at 55°33′18″N 133°05′07″W. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city occupies a total area of 0.9 square miles (2.3 km2). Of this modest expanse, a significant portion—0.6 square miles (1.6 km2)—is solid land, while the remaining 0.3 square miles (0.78 km2), which accounts for a rather substantial 34.83% of its total area, is water. This aquatic embrace is a defining feature, emphasizing the city's inextricable link to the surrounding marine environment. Its elevation, a humble 79 feet (24 m) above sea level, suggests a certain intimacy with the water, a constant reminder of the tides and the vast Pacific beyond. The city's location on the west coast of Prince of Wales Island, nestled within the Klawock Inlet, across from Klawock Island itself, positions it squarely within the intricate archipelago of Southeast Alaska, a region defined by its dense forests, rugged coastlines, and abundant waterways. This geographical setting has, predictably, shaped every aspect of Klawock's development, from its indigenous roots as a fishing camp to its later industrialization as a cannery town.
Climate
Klawock, much like many coastal communities in Southeast Alaska, is characterized by what is known as a warm summer oceanic climate. This designation, while sounding rather idyllic, often translates to consistently damp conditions and temperatures that rarely reach the extremes found in interior regions. One could say it's perpetually preparing for rain, or perhaps, simply resigned to it.
The climate data, painstakingly collected at Klawock Airport from 1991–2020, paints a picture of this persistent dampness and moderate temperatures. The average annual precipitation here is a staggering 89.20 inches (2,266 mm), spread across an average of 244.5 precipitation days per year. That's nearly two-thirds of the year with some form of moisture falling from the sky, a fact that surely keeps the local moss thriving. The wettest months typically arrive in the autumn, with September, October, and November each seeing over 10 inches of rain, peaking at 12.33 inches (313 mm) in October. Even the "drier" summer months, like June and July, still manage to clock in over 3-4 inches of precipitation, ensuring that nothing truly dries out.
Temperatures, thankfully, are less dramatic. The mean daily maximum temperature hovers around 51.3°F (10.7°C) annually. Summers are mild, with July and August seeing mean daily maximums in the low to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 17-18°C). The record high, a rather surprising 94°F (34°C), was recorded in July, a fleeting moment of intense heat in an otherwise temperate existence. Winters are cool but rarely severely cold, with mean daily maximums in the high 30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (4-5°C). Record lows, however, can plunge to -11°F (-24°C) in January, a stark reminder that this is still Alaska, regardless of the oceanic influence. The mean daily minimums generally stay above freezing for most of the year, dipping just below zero Celsius in the coldest winter months. It's a climate that demands good rain gear and a certain stoicism, but rarely the extreme survival skills needed elsewhere in the state.
| Climate data for Klawock, Alaska (Klawock Airport), 1991–2020 normals, extremes 1997–present |
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| Month |
| Record high °F (°C) |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) |
| Record low °F (°C) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) |
| Source 1: NOAA [8] |
| Source 2: National Weather Service (mean maxima/minima 2006–2020) [9] |
Demographics
The demographic history of Klawock reads like a particularly volatile stock market chart, with population figures swinging wildly through the decades. It first made its official appearance on the 1880 United States census, then documented as the unincorporated Tlingit village of "Klawak," with a modest population of 27. A decade later, by the 1890 United States census, it exploded to 287 residents, a staggering 963.0% increase, undoubtedly fueled by the nascent salmon industry. However, this boom was quickly followed by a bust, with the population plummeting to 131 by the 1900 United States census, a 54.4% decrease. The name "Klawak" persisted through the 1910 United States census, though the alternative spelling "Klawock" began to appear. By 1920, the population had collapsed to a mere 19 individuals, a bewildering 92.1% drop, making one wonder if everyone simply packed up and left. The 1930 United States census saw a miraculous resurgence to 437, a 2,200.0% increase, which then stabilized somewhat to 455 by 1940. This erratic pattern continued, with declines in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, before a strong rebound in the 1980s and 90s, reaching 854 residents by 2000. The 2010 United States census and 2020 United States census have shown more modest, steady declines, settling at 720. Clearly, Klawock's population has always been subject to the whims of its industries and the broader economic tides of Alaska. The town was officially incorporated in 1929, a move that presumably brought a modicum of order to its perpetually fluctuating existence.
| Historical population |
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| 1880 |
| 1890 |
| 1900 |
| 1910 |
| 1920 |
| 1930 |
| 1940 |
| 1950 |
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| 1970 |
| 1980 |
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| 2000 |
| 2010 |
| 2020 |
| U.S. Decennial Census [10] |
As of the 2000 United States census, a snapshot revealing the city's social fabric, there were 854 individuals residing in Klawock, distributed among 313 households and comprising 215 families. This translates to a population density of 1,465.4 inhabitants per square mile (565.8/km2), which, for Alaska, is practically a bustling metropolis. The housing landscape included 368 housing units, with an average density of 631.4 per square mile (243.8/km2).
The racial composition of Klawock in 2000 was notably diverse, reflecting its historical roots and ongoing demographics. Approximately 40.98% of the population identified as White, while a significant 50.94% were Native American. Smaller percentages included 0.47% Asian, 0.12% Pacific Islander, and 0.12% from other races. A further 7.38% reported belonging to two or more races, indicating a degree of intermingling. Additionally, 1.41% of the population identified as Hispanic or Latino of any race, adding another layer to the community's cultural tapestry.
Delving into household structures, 36.1% of the 313 households included children under the age of 18, suggesting a relatively youthful population. Married couples living together constituted 49.2% of households, while 10.2% were headed by a female householder with no husband present—a common, if sometimes challenging, arrangement. Non-family households accounted for 31.0% of the total, with 25.9% of all households being made up of individuals living alone. A small segment, 3.8%, had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older, indicating some level of independent senior living. The average household size was 2.73 persons, and the average family size was slightly larger at 3.25 persons.
The age distribution within Klawock in 2000 revealed a community with a robust youth demographic: 30.1% of the population was under the age of 18. The younger adult cohort, aged 18 to 24, made up 7.4%, while the prime working-age group of 25 to 44 comprised 29.9%. Those aged 45 to 64 accounted for 26.1%, and individuals 65 years of age or older represented 6.6% of the population. The median age in the city was 34 years, suggesting a relatively balanced population. A notable gender imbalance was observed, with 124.1 males for every 100 females. This disparity became even more pronounced when considering adults aged 18 and over, where there were 134.1 males for every 100 females, a statistic that might raise a few eyebrows, or at least prompt some sociological inquiry.
Economically, the median income for a household in Klawock was 38,839. Males, perhaps reflecting the prevalence of traditionally male-dominated industries like fishing and logging, had a median income of 23,036 reported for females. The per capita income for the city stood at $14,621, which, even in 2000, was not exactly a fortune. Regarding economic hardship, approximately 13.6% of families and 14.3% of the overall population found themselves below the poverty line. This included 16.5% of those under 18 and 5.0% of those aged 65 or over, indicating that poverty, while not rampant, was a present reality for certain segments of the population.
Tourism
Klawock, despite its utilitarian charm, does offer a few points of interest for the intrepid traveler, or at least for those who appreciate the subtle art of resource management. It boasts the oldest operating hatchery in Alaska, a facility that diligently works to enhance the runs of various salmon species, including the prized sockeye, the energetic coho, and the resilient steelhead. It's a testament to the enduring importance of fishing, even when nature occasionally needs a helping hand. Beyond the aquatic endeavors, the local economy is also supported by a sawmill and various area logging operations, activities that are, shall we say, less picturesque but equally vital.
The city's harbor serves as a practical, if not glamorous, departure point for tourists. It's where one embarks on trips or boating explorations of the countless bays, inlets, and surrounding islands that define this intricate coastal landscape. Don't expect grand promenades, but it gets the job done.
Culturally, Klawock also makes an effort. Each year on February 16, the venerable Alaska Native Brotherhood (ANB) and Alaska Native Sisterhood (ANS) organizations sponsor the "Elizabeth Peratrovich Celebration." This event, marked by ceremonies and a communal potluck, honors the anniversary of the passage of landmark anti-discrimination legislation, largely due to Peratrovich's impassioned advocacy. It's a reminder that even in remote corners, human rights are worth fighting for. The city also hosts a summer festival, rather unimaginatively titled "Celebration by the Sea," which presumably involves some form of communal gathering and perhaps a few local crafts.
A more visually striking attraction is the Totem Park, which proudly displays 21 totem poles, making it one of the largest and most significant collections in Alaska. These are not merely decorative elements but powerful cultural narratives, comprising both original and meticulously crafted replica totems from the ancestral village of Tuxekan. The city has thoughtfully provided a carving shed, an active workshop where these magnificent poles undergo restoration, offering visitors a glimpse into the intricate art form. In a further commitment to cultural preservation and revitalization, the city commissioned the construction of a traditional Long House in 1998, appropriately named Gaanì Ax Adi, which stands alongside a new totem pole, connecting the past to the present.
Law and government
Klawock's local governance operates with a predictable structure, consisting of a mayor and a city council. Given its location within the vast and largely unadministered Unorganized Borough, the state government effectively serves as the next highest administrative authority, stepping in where no formalized borough government exists. This arrangement means that many responsibilities typically handled by a county or borough fall directly to the city or the state.
The local government in Klawock is rather hands-on, managing a suite of essential utilities and services. This includes the provision of water, wastewater management, refuse collection, the operation of a trailer court (because even in Alaska, people need somewhere to park), a landfill (because waste doesn't magically disappear), the boat harbor (critical for a coastal community), a municipal liquor store (a pragmatic approach to revenue generation), and a boat ramp (because getting boats in and out of the water is a fundamental requirement).
Financially, the city imposes a local sales tax of 5.5%, with a specific earmark of 0.5% dedicated to education, a detail that suggests a grudging acknowledgment of future generations. Notably, there is no property tax, a feature that might appeal to some, while shifting the burden of public services elsewhere.
Public safety is addressed through a combination of professional and volunteer efforts. The city maintains a force of four full-time police officers, providing a consistent presence. For emergencies beyond law enforcement, Klawock relies on a volunteer fire department, boasting 27 dedicated members, and an EMS squad composed of 6-8 trained volunteers. Furthermore, the community hosts a search and rescue office, which, rather impressively, serves all of Prince of Wales Island and is staffed by 57 members. It seems that when things go wrong in this part of Alaska, a significant number of people are ready to help, albeit on a volunteer basis.
Education
Education in Klawock is structured to serve its relatively small population, operating under the administration of the Klawock City School District. The district oversees a comprehensive system that includes a school for grades K-6 and a separate high school catering to students in grades 7-12. On average, these institutions collectively enroll approximately 200 students each year, providing a close-knit educational environment. For the youngest members of the community, a Head Start school is available, specifically designed for three- to four-year-olds. This early childhood program is managed by the Tlingit and Haida Central Council, reflecting the strong indigenous cultural presence and commitment to early learning within the region.
Transportation
Navigating to and from Klawock, or indeed anywhere on Prince of Wales Island, requires a multi-modal approach, a testament to Alaska's challenging geography.
Airport
The Klawock Airport, a substantial facility with a 5,000-foot paved runway, holds the distinction of being the sole airport on all of Prince of Wales Island. This makes it the indispensable air transport gateway not only for Klawock itself but also for the nearby community of Craig, effectively serving as the island's primary aerial connection to the outside world. The airport accommodates both charter flights and regularly scheduled passenger services. Island Air Express provides daily scheduled flights from Ketchikan, serving as a vital link for residents and visitors. Additionally, Alaska Seaplanes offers flights connecting Klawock to the state capital, Juneau, and the historic city of Sitka, further expanding the island's accessibility.
Ferry
For those preferring a maritime journey, ferry service is available through the Inter-Island Ferry Authority, offering connections from two distinct communities on Prince of Wales Island. From Hollis, passengers can board the M/V Prince of Wales, which provides service to Ketchikan. Alternatively, from Coffman Cove, the M/V Stikine offers routes to either Wrangell or Petersburg. Both Hollis and Coffman Cove are conveniently accessible via Prince of Wales Island's extensive, albeit sometimes rustic, road system, allowing for seamless transfers between land and sea travel.
Cruise ships
In a somewhat unexpected development for a town of its size, a dedicated cruise ship port officially opened in Klawock in May 2024. This new facility represents a significant foray into the tourism industry, aiming to bring a new influx of visitors and economic activity to the region. The inaugural vessel to dock at this new port was the Seabourn Odyssey, a luxury cruise ship undertaking an ambitious 80-day cruise that had commenced all the way in Sydney, Australia. This venture is notable not just for its economic potential but also for its ownership and operation: the facility is entirely owned and managed by local Tlingit companies, ensuring that the benefits of this new tourism infrastructure directly support the indigenous community. [12]
Notable people
Klawock, despite its relatively small size, has contributed its share of influential figures to Alaskan history, particularly within the sphere of Alaska Native rights and governance.
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Frank Peratrovich (1895–1984): A prominent figure in Klawock, Frank Peratrovich served as the city's mayor and later ascended to the presidency of the Alaska Native Brotherhood (ANB), an organization dedicated to advancing the civil rights of indigenous Alaskans. His leadership extended beyond local and organizational roles when, in 1955, he was selected as one of the 55 delegates to the historic Alaska Constitutional Convention. In this pivotal assembly, he played a crucial role in shaping the foundational legal framework for the future state of Alaska, leaving an indelible mark on its nascent political identity.
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Elizabeth Peratrovich (1911–1958): Sister-in-law to Frank Peratrovich, Elizabeth Peratrovich emerged as a formidable advocate for civil rights. As president of the Alaska Native Sisterhood (ANS), she dedicated much of the 1940s to campaigning for anti-discrimination legislation. Her most impactful moment came in 1945 when she delivered a passionate and eloquent testimony before the Alaska Territorial Senate. Her powerful words, detailing the pervasive and dehumanizing effects of discrimination on Alaska Natives, are widely credited with swaying the Senate and ultimately securing the passage of the landmark Anti-Discrimination Act of 1945. This legislation was a groundbreaking achievement, making Alaska one of the first jurisdictions in the United States to outlaw racial discrimination. In recognition of her profound contributions, the state of Alaska has honored her legacy by designating February 16 as Elizabeth Peratrovich Day and by naming Gallery B of the State Capitol in her honor. She is, quite rightly, a towering figure in Alaskan civil rights history.