Gezicht op Sitka, Alaska before 1890

This photograph of Sitka, Alaska, was made by the Winter Photo Company and depicts the town’s layout, which is dominated by the imposing Baranof Castle. The image and accompanying text provide insights into the complex social and cultural dynamics of the region under Russian rule. Sitka, once the capital of Russian America, was a melting pot of cultures, with Russian, indigenous Tlingit, and other European influences shaping its identity. The presence of schools teaching Russian language and Greek religion highlights the efforts to assimilate the local population into Russian culture. The image serves as a window into the institutions and power structures that shaped the region's history. Delving into archival sources, such as missionary records, government documents, and personal accounts, allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of Russian colonialism on the indigenous communities of Alaska.