Attractions

The Whale House

Klukwan is the home of the world famous Whale House. The Rain wall screen and four house posts: the Black Skin Post, the Sea Monster Post, the Worm Girl Post, and the Raven Post are all part of this famous, and much sought after collection. One can hardly pick up a book on Tlingits or Northwest Coast Art without seeing the following photo of the Whale House collection taken by Winter and Pond in 1895.

Chilkat Weavers and Weavings

Chilkat Weavings have long been an integral part of Klukwan’s legacy. Although the art of Chilkat Weaving did not originate in Klukwan many of the finest examples of Chilkat Weaving were made here. The art of North West Coast Style Woolen Weaving–both Chilkat and Ravenstail–has been experiencing a renaissance in Klukwan beginning with the creation of the Klukwan Healing Robe. Currently there are several weavers in Klukwan who are carrying forth the legacy of woolen weaving. (See list of artists in Artist Gallery). When the Jilkaat Kwaan Cultural Heritage Center Building is completed there are a number of Chilkat Weavings that will be placed on display there. Some weavings have been recently returned to Klukwan via the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, and some have been maintained in Klukwan by clans and family members.

Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

Every fall thousands of Bald Eagles congregate in the Chilkat Valley to feed on a late run of Chum Salmon. Viewing is superb on a three-mile stretch of the Haines Highway that parallels the Chilkat River. Eagles can be seen feeding on the river flats and perched by the dozens on the tall Black Cottonwood trees that line the riverbank. The scenery is beautiful, and the environment is pristine – an awesome setting for an unforgettable experience.

 

The original Whale House

The Gathering of the Eagles

Artists at work