Sealaska Heritage Institute — Local services in Juneau

As many have noted here, John at the front desk was extremely friendly and a great guide to the intricacies of life in the clan house, which was so beautifully recreated with hand tools inside. Beautiful glass and wood work. We were also extremely lucky to be able to take time with the artist in residence Ursula Hudson. We dropped in with less than an hour left in her residency and she still took the time to speak with us, form a connection, and share her perspective on the modern life of formline art. Absolutely riveting and real conversation. Their exhibits, though small, kept us in attention for longer than many other Alaskan museums. I personally loved their exhibit Raven in Motion, and we saw the creator/trickster figure everywhere throughout the rest of our Alaskan tour. This museum was the highlight of our entire 10-day trip for my wife and I. Thank you John, Ursula, and the...

I came in and was immediately greeted by John (I think that was his name). SOOO friendly and excited to share his heritage with my son and me. He took us into a large room and explained each level of the replica traditional home. There were lots of informative displays along the back wall with old pictures to help explain in more detail. Although this museum is not very large, doesn't have very many exhibits, it was nice to have a personal guide to answer all our questions.... Except one.... Why is their language SOOO similar to Navajo? I could read some of their words, they were the same in both languages! :-)

I only gave 4 stars because it didn't have very much on display, but what they had was presented nicely.... especially the...

This is a major center for Native American history. The museum contains many historical artifacts as well as contemporary crafts. A highlight is a modern reproduction of a Tlingit long house with a gorgeous cast glass back wall using Tlingit clan motifs. I think it is the largest piece of art glass in the world (192 x 137 inches), created by the famous Tlingit glass-maker Preston Singletary (featured in the PBS special "Craft in America"). A traditional Tlingit story is told in the room, taking you into a special place. There is a fantastic gift shop. This is a must see if you are into Native American...