Description
This fascinating book, first written in the 1970s, captured Dena’ina Athabascan elders at Eklutna during a critical time in history. Renowned author, historian, and poet Ann Chandonnet set about interviewing the people of Eklutna before a way of life changed completely. Historic photos and an entire chapter devoted to the picturesque “spirit houses” are included, along with interviews with descendants of Eklutna Alex (1865-1952). Their resonating voices trace the history of the Athabascan village, from its founding circa 1650 to its successful acquisition of thousands of acres of land with the passage of the 1971 Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. This 2025 reprinting of On the Trail of Eklutna updates events that have continued to transform the unique village of 300 people. It touches on events such as reclaiming their famed salmon runs from the encroachment of dams placed on the Eklutna River in the 20th century, the fight to establish their own economic opportunities, and a unique government-to-government relationship with the Municipality of Anchorage. More descendant interviews round out the history and the hopeful future, including commentary from Aaron Leggett, president of the Native Village of Eklutna and descendant of Eklutna Alex.
