31/08/2020
Long ago before western science documented the geological history of Glacier Bay, the story of Kaasteen, an Eagle moiety, ChookaneidĂ Clan woman was captured in oral tradition, mournful song, and form line design. go.nps.gov/Kaasteen
The details of Kaasteen’s daily life are obscure, but her role in Tlingit history is profound. She is known and honored not just to the Huna Tlingit who call Glacier Bay Homeland, but to Tlingit nations throughout Southeast Alaska. The sacrifice she made on behalf of her people claimed for the Chookaneidà Clan what is now known as Glacier Bay proper. In a world where Tlingit men serve as kaa sháadi háni (leaders), she reminds us of the power of Tlingit women, ancestrally and today.
Thank you for joining us on this month long journey through Alaska women's history.
To read more about the women of Alaska; breaking boundaries, pioneering on the last frontier, and setting examples for future generations, explore stories & articles here: https://go.nps.gov/akwomen
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
Photo caption: A wood carving shows the face of Kaasteen, as depicted in the Huna Tribal House located in Bartlett Cove (NPS Photo / F. Schaller)