Chief Shakes Tribal House is a replica of the traditional Tlingit clan house of the Naanyaa.aayi Clan. The house underwent an important restoration effort in 2013 and celebrated its reopening with a dedication ceremony. Every plank in the House was carved with the traditional Tlingit carving methods by Master Carvers assisted by trained local apprentices. The intricate house posts in the interior of the house are replicas of the originals, which are on view at the Wrangell Museum and considered to be the oldest house posts still in existence.

The Tribal House, located on Shakes Island in the middle of the Reliance Harbor, is not always open for visitors, but the island is accessible at all times to walk around. Most of the original totems from the island have been removed due to safety issues and now lay in the recently constructed Carving Shed downtown, where Master Carvers will create replicas over the coming years.

1940 Chief Shakes Tribal House dedication ceremony. Photo: Sealaska Heritage Institute.

The Tribal House itself is open upon request for a fee. Please call the tribal office of the Wrangell Cooperative Association at 907-874-4304 for more information.

155 Shakes St. | Wrangell, AK 99929