It all started because of some bad weather. In 2013, an archaeological team from UC Davis was planning to travel to Cape Denbigh, but a summer storm prevented them from boating out. While they were stuck in Shaktoolik, they decided to explore the area. And they struck gold. They ended up finding house pits – close to 200 of them, in fact.
Since then, the team has returned every year to excavate and learn about the history of the region. Along the way, the entire community has joined in the effort. Together, the archaeologists and the residents of Shaktoolik are rediscovering the past, despite challenges posed by permafrost, erosion, and plenty of freezing cold rain.
To join me and the archaeologists on our journey back in time, tune in to Story49 on KNOM (780 AM, 96.1 FM) on Sunday, October 16th, at 6:00pm, and then again on Thursday, October 20th, at 12:30pm. You can also listen online using the audio player above.
If you or someone you know has a story to share, contact KNOM at 443-5221 or by email at story49@knom.org.
Story49: Sharing your story, your voice, your Alaska.
