Juneau’s Indian Point deemed worthy of protection

JUNEAU — The traditional and cultural significance of Juneau’s Indian Point has landed it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Juneau Empire reports that the roughly 78 acre parcel of land in Auke Bay is one of the original village sites of the Aakw Kwaan. The recent federal listing has given the site protection under the National Historic Preservation Act, an effort that’s been pushed by the Sealaska Heritage Institute since 2004.

The institute’s director of history and culture, Chuck Smyth, says members of the Alaska Native community have successfully challenged development efforts in the area for decades. He says Indian Point has historical, cultural and religious significance to Native people.

The institute will work with city and federal officials on a management plan for the site.

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