Sitka Tribal Tours :: Sheet'ka Kwaan Naa Kahídi

Sheet'ka Kwaan Naa Kahídi

The Community House is a catalyst to provide, in the tradition of the Tlingit People, "a place for the gathering of the community and clan families for activities or special occasions." It is used to share the Native Culture through dance, storytelling, and other events. Ultimately it is an educational forum for teachers, business leaders, community leaders, as well as seasonal visitors. The Community House is used to inspire, revitalize, restore, and preserve, the language, values, and customs of the Tlingit People.

The Sheet'ka Kwaan Naa Kahídi
Roughly translated as: "The House for All the People of Sitka"

Built on the edge of the Tlingit Village and conveniently located in the heart of beautiful downtown Sitka, the Sheet'ka Kwaán Naa Kahídi is within walking distance of most of Sitka's cultural and historical attractions, shopping areas, hotels, restaurants, and lounges.

The two large panels at the entrance representing the Eagle and Raven Moiety invite all to come inside. The building provides a natural place for the Tlingit Dancers to perform, along with many other local and visiting performers who enjoy the unique building venue. Built as a traditional Tlingit Longhouse, both strong and ornate, the versatility of the building design can accommodate a variety of functions:

Meetings & Conventions
Retreats & Seminars
Concerts and Theatrical Productions
Celebrations and Social Functions
Special Luncheons and Dinners
Graduations
Weddings

Long ago, the leader of the house would have his sleeping quarters behind the screen. As many as 9 or 10 families of the same clan would reside in a clan house. The two large symbols represent the Tlingit Nation, which is made up of two moieties (or divisions) – the Eagle (on the left) and the Raven (on the right). Within the Tlingit Nation, there are approximately 30 Tlingit clans under both the Raven and the Eagle. The two joined together represent not only the Tlingit Nation, but what is also referred to as, the Love Birds. In traditional Tlingit ways, Eagles are to marry only Ravens, and Ravens are to marry only Eagles. The bottom center depicts a spirit-face, with red arms stretched wide open on either side, saying "All Are Welcome Here".

This Modern-rendition of a Tlingit clan house was completed May of 1997. During a traditional dedication, red paint was applied to the upper corners of the room. This was done by each of the four main clan leaders signifying that peace has been made with the Tree People. Tinaas (or thank-you shields) carved by local Master Silversmith, Dave Galanin, were placed at the back of the building. These hand carved shields are displayed to honor and thank the generous contributors that helped to pay for this beautiful building.