van wyk journeys 
Ketchikan (/ˈkɛtʃɪkæn/ KETCH-ih-kan;[4] Tlingit: Kichx̱áan) is a city in and the borough seat of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough of Alaska.[5][6] It is the state’s southeasternmost major settlement. Downtown Ketchikan is a National Historic Landmark District.
With a population at the 2020 census of 8,192, up from 8,050 in 2010,[7][5] it is the sixth-most populous city in the state, and thirteenth-most populous community when census-designated places are included. The surrounding borough, encompassing suburbs both north and south of the city along the Tongass Highway (most of which are commonly regarded as a part of Ketchikan, albeit not a part of the city itself), plus small rural settlements accessible mostly by water, registered a population of 13,948 in that same census.[7]
Incorporated on August 25, 1900, Ketchikan is the earliest extant incorporated city in Alaska, because consolidation or unification elsewhere in Alaska resulted in the dissolution of those communities’ city governments. Ketchikan is located on Revillagigedo Island, so named in 1793 by Captain George Vancouver.
Ketchikan is named after Ketchikan Creek, which flows through the town, emptying into the Tongass Narrows a short distance southeast of its downtown. “Ketchikan” comes from the Tlingit name for the creek, Kitschk-hin, the meaning of which is unclear. It may mean “the river belonging to Kitschk”; other accounts claim it means “Thundering Wings of an Eagle”.[8] In modern Tlingit, this name is Kichx̱áan.[9]
Credit Wikipedia® Ketchikan, Alaska – Wikipedia
Photo credit William van Wyk 2023©
Ketchikan is a charming and picturesque port city located in southeastern Alaska. As our ship docked at the harbor, we were immediately captivated by the beauty of our surroundings. Nestled between the Tongass National Forest and the crystal-clear waters of the Inside Passage, Ketchikan is truly a nature lover’s paradise.
We embarked on a unique and exciting adventure called the Ketchikan Photo Safari. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour allowed us to explore the hidden gems of the city while honing our photography skills. Armed with our cameras, we set off to capture the natural wonders and cultural heritage that Ketchikan had to offer.
Our first stop was Creek Street, a historic boardwalk perched on pilings above Ketchikan Creek. This iconic area is lined with vibrant, colorful buildings that were once occupied by bustling brothels and a thriving red-light district during the gold rush era. Nowadays, the street has been transformed into a bustling hub of shops, galleries, and eateries. We couldn’t resist taking countless snapshots of the charming architecture and picturesque views of the creek.
Continuing our photography expedition, we made our way to Totem Bight State Historical Park. This fascinating park is home to a collection of majestic totem poles, each with its own unique story to tell. These intricately carved monuments are not only visually stunning but also hold great cultural significance to the indigenous people of Alaska. We spent hours capturing the intricate details and vibrant colors of these impressive works of art.
Next on our itinerary was the Tongass Historical Museum, where we delved into the rich history and heritage of Ketchikan. Housed in a beautifully restored building, the museum showcased artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that offered a glimpse into the city’s past. From the early days of fishing and canneries to the thriving arts scene that has emerged, we were fascinated by the evolution of this vibrant community.
After an exhilarating day of exploration and photography, we returned to our ship with memories and images that would last a lifetime. Ketchikan had left an indelible mark on our hearts, with its natural splendor, intriguing history, and warm hospitality.
If you’re ever considering a cruise to Alaska, make sure to include Ketchikan in your itinerary. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, this enchanting city will not disappoint. Prepare your camera and embark on your own Ketchikan Photo Safari for an unforgettable adventure.
Use this link to go to the Ketchikan Photo Safari page.
Best Regards,
Bill & Joan
from vanwykjourneys.ca