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Historic Preservation

Preserve the Past

Museum researchers begin archaeological survey in Uyak Bay with support from the US Fish & Wildlife Service, 2020.

Archaeological sites are a non-renewable resource. Once disturbed, the information they hold is lost forever. Since 1998, Alutiiq Museum archaeologists have partnered with the US Fish & Wildlife Service to document the condition of archaeological sites in the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge. With the help of students and volunteers, our team has evaluated hundreds of sites through thousands of site visits. This work is recording valuable information, revealing Alutiiq history, and educating the public about the value of archaeological sites.

What Should I Know?

The ancestral settlements found on Kodiak represent the only record of ancient history available for all time. State and federal laws protect Alaska’s sites. It is illegal to dig in sites or collect artifacts without a permit. What should you do if you discover a site or an artifact? Download our booklet, brochure, or handout to learn how you can help protect Alaska’s heritage.

Kodiak Archaeology Booklet
Kodiak Archaeology Brochure
Kodiak Archaeology Handout

Messages from Community Members

Emily Jean Capjohn

Take photos, not artifacts.

Many of Kodiak’s archaeological sites are eroding and artifacts are a common find. As you enjoy local beaches remember to take photographs, not artifacts.

Daniel Smith

Digging destroys.

It is exciting to find an archaeological site, but you should never dig in one. Recreational digging destroys information. It is vandalism.

Cheryl Heitman

Alutiiq history is all around us.

There are more than 2500 hundred archaeological sites in the Kodiak region. As you explore treat sites and artifacts with respect. Record what you see but don’t disturb.

Dehrich Chya

Respect and protect Alutiiq ancestors.

As Kodiak’s coast erodes, ancestral graves are often exposed. All human remains are protected by law. If you find remains, note the location and call the Troopers.

    Report a Find

    To report a site or an artifact find to the Alutiiq Museum, contact one of our professional archaeologists. 

    Or call the Alutiiq Museum at 844-425-8844. We can often determine who owns the land and work with them to preserve the find.

    A slate ulu found on a Kodiak beach.

    Learn More

    These useful resources provide more information on caring for archaeological sites and their contents.

    Christy Roe taking notes at the Amak site, 2012.

    Kodiak Archaeology — An Introduction

    Archaeologist Patrick Saltonstall talks about archaeological sites and artifacts and how you can help to preserve them (13:24 minutes).

    Produced with support from the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Trustee Council through the CORaL Network.

    Stewards of Heritage

    These short films provide more information on Kodiak’s remarkable archaeological record and how you can help to preserve it.  

    Produced with support from the US Fish & Wildlife Service.