History of Kodiak Island Borough, Alaska
Kodiak Island Borough, located in the Gulf of Alaska, is renowned for its rich natural resources, cultural heritage, and historical significance. The borough includes the second-largest island in the United States, Kodiak Island, as well as several smaller islands in the Kodiak Archipelago. The island has been a vital location for indigenous peoples, Russian settlers, and American development, particularly in the fishing industry. Established in 1963, the borough’s economy today is driven by fishing, tourism, and military presence. Kodiak Island Borough is a blend of pristine natural beauty and historical depth, playing a central role in Alaska’s development.
County Facts
- Founded: September 24, 1963
- Population: Approximately 13,000 (as of 2020 Census)
- Area: 12,022 square miles (land and water)
- Area Code: 907
- ZIP Codes: 99615, 99619, 99624, 99697
- County Seat: Kodiak
- Major Cities: Kodiak (borough seat), Ouzinkie, Larsen Bay, Old Harbor, Port Lions, Akhiok
- Famous Landmarks:
- Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge
- Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park
- Baranov Museum
- Alutiiq Museum
- Kodiak Military History Museum
Early History of Kodiak Island Borough (Pre-1700s)
Indigenous Peoples: Alutiiq Culture
Kodiak Island was inhabited for at least 7,500 years before European contact, with the Alutiiq people (also known as Sugpiaq) establishing a vibrant and resourceful culture. The Alutiiq relied on the abundant natural resources of the island, particularly fish, sea mammals, and birds, for survival. Their society was built around subsistence hunting, fishing, and gathering, and they developed sophisticated tools, such as kayaks (baidarkas) and fishing gear, to navigate the island’s waters. The Alutiiq were also skilled artists, creating intricate masks, carvings, and clothing that reflected their deep connection to nature and spirituality.
Russian Settlement and Influence (1700s-1867)
Russian Exploration and Settlement (1741)
In 1741, Russian explorer Vitus Bering led an expedition into Alaskan waters, marking the beginning of Russian influence in Alaska, including Kodiak Island. Russian fur traders, drawn to the region’s abundant sea otters, arrived on Kodiak Island in the late 18th century. In 1784, Grigory Shelikhov, a Russian fur trader, established a settlement at Three Saints Bay, making it the first Russian colony in Alaska. The settlement was later relocated to present-day Kodiak due to natural disasters and its proximity to better resources.
Russian-American Company and Kodiak’s Role
Kodiak became the capital of Russian Alaska, serving as a key base for the Russian-American Company, which managed the fur trade and expanded Russia’s colonial presence. The company relied heavily on the labor of the indigenous Alutiiq people, often forcing them into servitude to harvest sea otter pelts, which were highly prized in international markets. The exploitation of the Alutiiq and the introduction of European diseases caused significant hardship for the native population, leading to a drastic population decline.
Transfer to the United States and American Development (1867-1940)
Alaska Purchase (1867)
In 1867, Russia sold Alaska to the United States for $7.2 million, a transaction that became known as the Alaska Purchase. Kodiak Island, along with the rest of Alaska, became part of the United States. After the transfer, American settlers began to arrive in Kodiak, though the region remained relatively isolated. The fur trade continued, but overhunting had significantly reduced the sea otter population, leading to a decline in the industry.
Growth of the Fishing Industry
By the late 19th century, commercial fishing, particularly salmon canning, began to emerge as the dominant industry on Kodiak Island. The island’s rivers and coastal waters were teeming with salmon, making it a prime location for fisheries. Canneries were established, attracting workers from across the United States and beyond. The fishing industry laid the foundation for Kodiak’s economic growth, which continues to play a vital role in the borough’s economy today.
World War II and Military Significance (1940-1960)
World War II and Military Bases
World War II brought significant changes to Kodiak Island. Due to its strategic location in the North Pacific, Kodiak became an important military outpost for the United States. In 1941, the U.S. military constructed Fort Abercrombie and the Kodiak Naval Operating Base to defend against potential Japanese attacks. Kodiak played a key role in the defense of Alaska and the Aleutian Islands during the war. The military presence brought thousands of soldiers and workers to the island, boosting the local economy.
Post-War Military Presence
After the war, Kodiak’s military installations remained active, with the naval base becoming a permanent part of the U.S. defense system in Alaska. The Coast Guard also established a significant presence in Kodiak, and today, Kodiak is home to one of the largest Coast Guard bases in the United States. The military continues to be an essential part of the borough’s economy and infrastructure.
Formation of Kodiak Island Borough and Modern Development (1960-Present)
Incorporation of Kodiak Island Borough (1963)
In 1963, Kodiak Island Borough was officially incorporated as part of Alaska’s move toward organized boroughs following statehood in 1959. The creation of the borough allowed for more localized governance and better management of public services, resources, and infrastructure. Soldotna was established as the borough seat, and the region saw increased development, particularly in its fisheries and transportation networks.
Devastation and Recovery: The 1964 Earthquake
One of the most significant events in Kodiak’s modern history was the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, which struck Southcentral Alaska. With a magnitude of 9.2, it remains the second-most powerful earthquake ever recorded. Kodiak was heavily impacted by the earthquake and the resulting tsunamis, which caused widespread destruction in coastal areas, including damage to canneries, infrastructure, and homes. Despite the devastation, the community quickly rebuilt, and the fishing industry recovered, continuing to grow in the following decades.
Economic Diversification and Environmental Conservation
Fishing and Seafood Industry
Today, Kodiak Island Borough remains one of the most important commercial fishing regions in the United States. The borough is home to a significant portion of Alaska’s fishing fleet, and the island’s canneries and seafood processing plants continue to drive the local economy. Kodiak’s waters are rich in a variety of marine species, including salmon, halibut, and crab, making the borough a critical hub for the global seafood industry.
Tourism and Outdoor Recreation
In addition to fishing, tourism has become an increasingly important industry for Kodiak Island Borough. The borough’s stunning landscapes, including Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, attract visitors from around the world who come to experience its wildlife, particularly the famous Kodiak brown bears. Outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and sport fishing also contribute to the borough’s growing tourism sector.
Famous Landmarks and Attractions
Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge
The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge covers two-thirds of Kodiak Island and offers protection for the island’s diverse ecosystems. It is home to the world-famous Kodiak brown bear, as well as a wide range of other wildlife, including bald eagles, salmon, and sea otters. The refuge is a popular destination for wildlife viewing, hiking, and photography.
Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park
Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park preserves the remains of World War II military installations on Kodiak Island. The park offers historical exhibits and hiking trails with stunning views of the Gulf of Alaska. Visitors can explore the remnants of bunkers, gun batteries, and other military structures that played a critical role in Alaska’s defense during the war.
Baranov Museum
The Baranov Museum, located in downtown Kodiak, is housed in one of the oldest surviving Russian-American buildings in Alaska. The museum offers exhibits on Kodiak’s Russian colonial history, the fishing industry, and local cultural heritage.
Alutiiq Museum
The Alutiiq Museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the culture and history of the Alutiiq people. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts, artwork, and educational materials that highlight the traditions and resilience of Kodiak’s indigenous communities.
Kodiak Military History Museum
Located in Fort Abercrombie, the Kodiak Military History Museum showcases Kodiak’s role in World War II and the Cold War. The museum houses military artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of the island’s strategic importance in Alaska’s military history.
