June 23, 2023
I am starting to work on a new book, Anya’s Story. This is a work of fiction. I hope to explore several different times in the history of the Aleutian Islands from the perspective of a young Alaska Native woman.
The earliest time is before the arrival of the Russian fur traders. The harsh climate (wind, rain, and fog) and lack of resources (no trees or large land mammals) shaped the culture. Homes were dug into the earth for protection from wind (barabaras). There are no trees on the islands so driftwood and bones were used for roof supports. Mammals from the sea provided meat for food and blubber for fuel (heating and cooking) and waterproofing. Stellar’s sea cow was especially useful as it was large and slow. Hunters in small boats (baidarkas) could catch and kill these wonderful creatures. Fishing was a good source of protein but not useful for fuel. Gathering native plants and seaweed was an important source of nutrients as well.
The earliest inhabitants, the Unangax (Aleut) (seaside people), have been living on the Aleutian Islands for about 9000 years. They use seal skin drums in their music and created intricate baskets and carved ivory and bone. They worshiped nature and the creator. Villages were led by chiefs.