Ketchikan

Ketchikan
Name	Ketchikan
Settlement type	City
Nickname	"Salmon Capital of the World"
Pushpin label position	left
Coordinates	55, 21, 00, N...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United States
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	Alaska
Subdivision type2	Borough
Subdivision name2	Ketchikan Gateway Borough
Established title	Incorporated
Established date	August 25, 1900
Government type	Council–manager
Leader title	Mayor
Area total km2	12.7
Area land km2	10.7
Area water km2	2.0
Population total	8192
Population as of	2020
Population density km2	765.6
Timezone	AKST
Utc offset	-9
Timezone DST	AKDT
Utc offset DST	-8
Postal code type	ZIP code
Postal code	99901, 99950
Area code	907
Blank name	FIPS code
Blank info	02-38970
Blank1 name	GNIS feature ID
Blank1 info	1423039, 2419408
Website	https://www.ktn-ak.us/

Ketchikan is a city in the U.S. state of Alaska, situated on Revillagigedo Island within the Alexander Archipelago. It serves as the county seat of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough and is often called the "Salmon Capital of the World" due to its prolific fisheries. The city's economy has historically been driven by logging, commercial fishing, and, more recently, tourism, particularly from cruise ship traffic. Its rich cultural heritage is deeply tied to the indigenous Tlingit people and features prominently in the famed Totem Bight State Historical Park and the Misty Fiords National Monument.

History

The area was originally inhabited by the Tlingit people for thousands of years before European contact. The city's name is derived from Ketchikan Creek, which was named by the native inhabitants. In 1885, Mike Martin established a salmon cannery here, marking the beginning of permanent non-native settlement. The Ketchikan Mining District spurred further growth during the late 19th century, leading to its official incorporation in 1900. Throughout the early 20th century, it became a major hub for the Alaska fishing industry and the timber industry, with companies like the Ketchikan Spruce Mills operating extensively. The city also played a strategic role during World War II, with the construction of the Ketchikan Naval Air Station as part of the Aleutian Islands Campaign.

Geography

Ketchikan is located on the southwestern coast of Revillagigedo Island, facing the Tongass Narrows. It lies within the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. The terrain is characterized by steep, forested mountains and a rugged coastline, with significant rainfall contributing to a temperate rainforest climate. Notable geographic features include the Behm Canal to the east and the Deweyville area to the north. The city's proximity to the Misty Fiords National Monument, a wilderness area managed by the United States Forest Service, highlights its dramatic fjords and glacial landscapes.

Economy

Historically centered on natural resources, Ketchikan's economy was built on salmon canning, with major operations run by the New England Fish Company and others. The timber industry, supported by the Tongass National Forest, was another cornerstone until the late 20th century. Today, tourism is the dominant sector, driven largely by the Alaska Marine Highway system and visits from major cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Holland America Line. The Ketchikan International Airport provides vital air service, while the Ketchikan Shipyard remains an important facility for maritime repair and construction. Government employment through entities like the United States Coast Guard and the Ketchikan Gateway Borough also contributes significantly.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 8,192, making it one of the larger communities in southeastern Alaska. The city has a diverse population that includes a significant proportion of Alaska Natives, primarily Tlingit, as well as Haida and Tsimshian peoples. Other ethnic groups reflect historical immigration patterns tied to the fishing and mining industries. The Ketchikan Gateway Borough encompasses several smaller communities, including Saxman and Metlakatla, which is the only federal Indian reservation in Alaska. Educational needs are served by the Ketchikan School District and the University of Alaska Southeast.

Culture and attractions

Ketchikan is renowned for its vibrant indigenous culture and extensive collection of totem poles, showcased at the Totem Heritage Center, Saxman Totem Park, and Totem Bight State Historical Park. The annual Blueberry Arts Festival and the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show celebrate local arts and history. Key institutions include the Tongass Historical Museum and the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Outdoor attractions are centered on the Misty Fiords National Monument, offering world-class kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing for species like bald eagles and black bears. The historic Creek Street district, a former red-light district on pilings over Ketchikan Creek, is now a popular tourist destination with shops and galleries.

Government

Ketchikan operates under a council–manager form of government, with a mayor and a six-member Ketchikan City Council. It is part of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough, which provides regional services. The city is represented in the Alaska Legislature and sends a delegate to the United States Congress. Key local facilities include the Ketchikan Police Department, Ketchikan Fire Department, and the public Ketchikan Public Utilities. The Ketchikan Courthouse serves the First Judicial District of Alaska, and the city is within the jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the District of Alaska.

Category:Cities in Alaska Category:Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska Category:Populated coastal places in Alaska