WHERE WE ARE

“Allakaket is on the Arctic Circle in Alaska. It gets cold here and we get lots of snow.” —Ruth & Naomi

About aLLAKAKET

Allakaket is located at the junction of the Alatna and Koyukuk Rivers. Its Native name, ‘Aalaakkaakk’et, means, ‘mouth of the Alatna River.’ in 1906, an Episcopal mission was established at Allakaket and it became a settlement for 15- 20 families living in the area.  With Chief Moses as their leader, people thrived by a subsistence lifestyle including trapping until 1918 when disease came.  By 1920, three quarters of the population had died leaving only 200 survivors. 

The tremendously resilient people kept their subsistence lifestyle and traditions, including hosting large potlatches for villages in the Koyukuk River region. Although flooding in the spring was frequent, in 1930 a very large flood forced people to move 10 miles upriver. In 1994 the river rose over eight feet higher than any previous flood, and the village had to be rebuilt on a hillside 2 miles from the river. 

Today Allakaket residents continue to subsistence hunt and fish. They take great pride in keeping the tradition to gather for sled dog races at the new year and in early spring, inviting dog mushers and visitors throughout the Koyukuk River region, and beyond.  Allakaket hosts a big fourth of July celebration each year, which lasts for several days and includes dances and games.