Russian Blockhouse, Sitka
Serving as a replica of the original walled fortifications that delineated Russia's control, the Russian Blockhouse offers visitors insight into the defensive structures that once guarded Novo-Archangelsk, present-day Sitka. Originally, the Russians erected a capital D-shaped five-sided blockhouse at this site, strategically positioned to overlook the gate between the Russian outpost and the neighboring Tlingit village. Additionally, an octagonal blockhouse and a small square blockhouse were strategically placed within the vicinity, each fulfilling specific defensive purposes.
Historical records indicate that the original blockhouses gradually fell into disrepair following significant events such as the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States in 1867. Over time, decay and neglect took their toll, leading to the dismantling of the D-shaped and octagonal blockhouses in 1899 and 1921, respectively.
However, recognizing the historical significance of these structures, civic-minded citizens, including the Alaska Native Brotherhood, undertook initiatives to preserve their legacy. Consequently, in 1962, a second octagonal reproduction blockhouse was constructed at the site of the Sitka National Monument, ensuring that future generations could appreciate and learn from this crucial aspect of Alaska's colonial history.
Historical records indicate that the original blockhouses gradually fell into disrepair following significant events such as the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States in 1867. Over time, decay and neglect took their toll, leading to the dismantling of the D-shaped and octagonal blockhouses in 1899 and 1921, respectively.
However, recognizing the historical significance of these structures, civic-minded citizens, including the Alaska Native Brotherhood, undertook initiatives to preserve their legacy. Consequently, in 1962, a second octagonal reproduction blockhouse was constructed at the site of the Sitka National Monument, ensuring that future generations could appreciate and learn from this crucial aspect of Alaska's colonial history.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Sitka. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Russian Blockhouse on Map
Sight Name: Russian Blockhouse
Sight Location: Sitka, USA (See walking tours in Sitka)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Sitka, USA (See walking tours in Sitka)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Sitka, Alaska
Create Your Own Walk in Sitka
Creating your own self-guided walk in Sitka is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Historical Buildings Walk
The historical landmarks of Sitka serve as windows to pivotal moments in Alaska's past. From battlegrounds and fortresses to churches, schools, and military bases, these locations offer a fascinating peek into Sitka's varied and influential history, highlighting its significant contributions to both Alaskan and American narratives.
Among these sites is Sheldon Jackson College.... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Among these sites is Sheldon Jackson College.... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Sitka Introduction Walking Tour
Rubbing shoulders with the Tongass National Forest in Alaska, the coastal town of Sitka boasts a fascinating past, having served first as the capital of Russian America and then the Alaska Territory.
The name Sitka is derived from "Shee At'ik谩," which in the Tlingit language (of the indigenous people of Southeast Alaska and Western Canada) means"people on the outside of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
The name Sitka is derived from "Shee At'ik谩," which in the Tlingit language (of the indigenous people of Southeast Alaska and Western Canada) means"people on the outside of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles