Archaeologists and Volunteers in Quinhagak, Alaska

In June, a group of volunteer excavators and archaeologists worked diligently at the Nunalleq dig site, near Quinhagak, Alaska. Their goal was to uncover and preserve cultural artifacts from the soil. This effort follows the aftermath of Typhoon Halong, which struck western Alaska in October, causing significant damage and displacing over a thousand individuals. The coastal village faced devastation as houses were shaken and infrastructure damaged.

Typhoon Halong’s Impact on Archaeological Sites

The day after the storm, Jenny Matthew and her husband assessed the damage along the coastline. The tundra was uprooted by wind and floodwaters. Amidst the debris, a wooden bowl emerged, carved by residents 400-600 years ago. This bowl was among thousands of cultural objects disrupted by the storm.

Preserving Quinhagak’s Cultural Heritage

The Nunalleq site holds significant artifacts that reflect the Alaska Native Yup’ik culture prior to Western contact. Erosion from the storm elevated risks for unexcavated items, prompting an emergency dig effort. A team of archaeologists, led by Rick Knecht, returned to recover vulnerable artifacts.

A Community’s Determination

Since initial excavations in 2009, local efforts have aimed to preserve these historical objects, including carved animals, sewing tools, masks, and kayak parts. The site is about the size of two Olympic pools, with the emergency dig focusing on a smaller area. Various funding sources support the project.

“It’s like you might as well take those pieces of artwork we’re finding and skip it off into the Bering Sea.”

Knecht explains the challenge of working close to encroaching sea levels due to climate change.

Continued Efforts and Cultural Significance

The Nunalleq Culture and Archaeology Center provides public access to these artifacts, strengthening community identity. Elizabeth Church from Quinhagak Heritage Inc. emphasized the importance of safeguarding these belongings. The community shares a profound connection to the artifacts, embodying resilience and technological advancement.

Church voiced the urgency for continued recovery efforts amidst upcoming storm seasons. The center is a repository of history and heritage, reinforcing the community’s sense of identity and responsibility.