Welcome to the Yaadaas Crest Pole, a significant cultural landmark located in the Sitka National Historical Park, Alaska. This site not only showcases the artistic craftsmanship of the Haida people but also stands as a profound testament to their rich cultural heritage. The Yaadaas Crest Pole is a recarving of the original pole from Old Kasaan on Prince of Wales Island, brought to life by the skilled hands of brothers Timothy (Sgwaayaans) and Joseph (Gidawaan) Young, members of the Yaadaas clan.
The journey of this pole begins in the early 20th century when the original was part of the Brady totem pole collection, exhibited at various expositions such as the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition and the 1905 Lewis and Clark Exposition. This pole, like many others in Sitka National Historical Park, narrates the lineage of the clan it represents, with intricate carvings that include bears with distinct claws and snouts, and the figure of the Village Watchman at the top, a unique feature in Haida poles symbolizing protection and vigilance.
In 2006, the park celebrated the centennial of the Brady collection’s arrival by raising this new pole, an endeavor that honors the ancestors and educates the public about Haida culture. This park itself is steeped in history, established initially as a national monument in 1910 to preserve the site of the 1804 Battle of Sitka between the native Tlingit people and Russian settlers. Over time, it has evolved, with many original poles preserved and exhibited to prevent deterioration, while replicas like the Yaadaas Crest Pole continue to tell the stories of the past.
As you stand before the Yaadaas Crest Pole, you are not just witnessing a piece of art but a living narrative of the Haida people, a story of resilience, cultural pride, and artistic excellence.
