Sitka
Occupying some of the the greatest locations in Alaska, Sitka is often reffered to as one of the most gorgious cities of souteast. Sitka was named by the Tlingit Indians meaning by the sea. Yes, Sitka is located about 95 miles southwest of Juneau with only a few islands away from the Pacific Ocean. The first Russian settlers arrived in Sitka in 1804 and adds much to the southeast territories. Sitka is also know as the largest city in the world while taking in 4,710 square-miles within its boundaries. The town holds a aproximent population of 9,000. It is home to one of the numerous volcanos that dot Alaska. Mt. Edgecumbe, also called "the bay of terrors", is a snowcapped volcano that contributes to the great beauty to Sitka's land. Today, tourism, commercial fishing and timber are the mainstreams of the town's economy. Sitka also holds the oldest school in its city after being organized by Presbyterian missionaries in 1878 as a trade school for Native boys. Sitka was once a time that held many original Russian buildings. However, all have decayed and burned down since that time. Micheal's Cathedral, which burned to the ground in 1966, has since been restored to its full detail and beauty. The Cathedral is one of the many sites to see while traveling to Sitka and attracts vistors throughout the world. Another great sight to visit in Sitka is Castle Hill, where Russia turned Alaska over to the property of the United States in 1867. Since 1906, Sitka was the capitol of Russian Alaska do to its fortune made in fur trading. After that time it was moved to Juneau in highlight of the Gold Rush. The climate of Sitka is mild and wet with an anuual precipitation of 95 inches and an average daily temperature of 33 degrees Fahrenheit in January and 55 degrees Fahrenheit in July.
BACK
Photo by: AK Division of Tourism
INDEX - Geography - Wildlife - People - Commerce - Resources - Events
Fast Facts - History - Government - Transportation - Climate - Communication