The Structure of Ketchikan in Alaska - Essay Example

Ketchikan, one of the most beautiful cities in the whole of the U.S. attracts a multitude of tourists from all over the world. It is sited on Revillagigedo Island in Alaska. Its history dates back to the year 1886 when the first salmon cannery was built and by the year 1930, there was a flourishing fishing industry in the town with a large number of canneries operating. Areas surrounding Ketchikan are rich in gold and timber but it became apparent that the real attraction of Ketchikan was not gold or timber but Salmon and soon the place made its mark as a fisherman’s paradise.

The fishing industry had to see a period of decline as a result of overfishing and many of the canneries had to shut down in 1940. This however drew attention to the enormous wood reserves and in 1954; one of the biggest pulp mills in the world was established. This too was closed down as a result of obsolete types of equipment and severe environmental regulations. (Thompson, 2008). The city is home to a large number of different tribes and communities and hence presents a very wide and diverse culture.

Many different tribes have origins ranging from Indian to American life in this area. The famous tribes of Ketchikan are Inupiat, Yupik, Aleut, Inuit, Tlingit, Haida, Tsimshian, and Eyak. Akin to the various tribes, there is a range of religions prevalent in the area but the most widely practiced are Christianity and Buddhism. There are a number of churches in the city like St John’s Church on mission street and the First Lutheran Church on Tongass Avenue. These religions have made an impact on the life of the people of Ketchikan as well as the whole region of Alaska.

Different Institutions like schools, colleges as well as churches reflect the ideologies of these different religions spread throughout the state. (Ketchikan, Alaska) The city contains plenty of historical sites and museums that attract visitors. Totem Heritage Centre, Tongass Historical Centre, Dolly’s house museum, Misty Fjords National Monument, and Totem Bight State Park are the topmost attractions of the city, seeking the attention of both natives and tourists. Apart from being rich in its history and culture, it is rich in natural resources that make an important contribution to the economy of the country.

The city holds reserves of Gold, Silver, Natural gas, Copper, and Oil. (Ketchikan Attractions) Ketchikan has been home to many famous people. Some of these are listed below: Lisa Murkowski: She is a famous politician of the United belonging to the Roman Catholic religion. Charles Lillard: He was a famous poet who was born and raised in Ketchikan and wrote many famous poems like ‘Jabble’ and ‘Circling North’ Danny Edwards: He is a professional gold player who has performed on the PGA tour, nationwide tour, and the Champions Tour.

William Boardman: He was a legislator who was appointed as a speaker in the Alaska ‘House of Representatives for one year. Dorothy Grant: She is a fashion designer who founded Feastwear and Red Raven. Her designs got great recognition from the public Ketchikan, once famous for only its salmons has now emerged as a vibrant city and is truly a beautiful city not only in terms of its physical beauty but also in its richness of culture and diversity.