Sitka, Alaska

We arrived in Sitka, Alaska, on August 19, 2015.  This was probably our favorite site as the weather was fine and the city was not too crowded.

The ship was anchored in the harbor and tenders, actually large lifeboats, were used to ferry passengers from ship to shore.

After a few minute ride, we disembarked at the dock at Sitka.  This time, we were the only ship visiting the port which was nice.

So we  arrived in Sitka and found this grand sign welcoming us.

 A monument to the settlers of this area after the territory had been purchased from Russia.  He might also represent those who came to Alaska seeking fortunes in gold.

Sitka was a major settlement by the Russians in Czarist days and the blockhouse in the background dates from that time.

This is a replica of a Native American canoe.  The raven was credited as a very wise bird and we heard stories and legends about it.

Fishing remains an active occupation along with tourism for the area.

Always be prepared.  Not a sign used in mid-western USA.

An excursion tour leaving Sitka harbor.  In addition to those advertised onboard the ship, there were also tour operators on the dock offering less-expensive tours.

The sky cleared up as we walked around and there was not much traffic.

This church, a replica after a destructive fire not too many years ago, was built by the Russians and served as the cathedral for Bishop Innocent.  Note the cross above.  What do you see?

A closeup of the eagles perched on the cross.

This was the house and center of the Russian Orthodox church for Bishop Innocent.

We were told that after the American purchase of Alaska, missionaries tried to separate the Indians from their culture and language while the Russians had allowed more indigenous ideas and customs to continue.  As a result, Indians held on the the Orthodox faith more tightly.  This photo dates from about 100 years ago.

A docent explained the symbolism of the icons found inside the cathedral.  At the time of the fire, many of these articles were saved and so grace the church today.

Another church nearby.

We had a bite to eat and Ruth enjoyed the time.

An old-fashioned soda fountain in a Sitka drugstore.

A view of a store selling imports from Russia.

This set was our souvenir of the trip.

Finally it was time to head back to the ship.