The Chilkoot Indian Association has secured a $75,000 grant for architectural work to stabilize the tribal house at Fort Seward and plan its reconstruction.
CIA tribal administrator Harriet Brouillette said the work will include shoring up roof supports to bear snow loads in the coming winter. The roof now sags, making the building unfit for use.
While some of the building’s structure is rotting and needs replacement, other parts including totemic house posts, will be preserved in the rebuilding of the structure. The replica tribal house was built by Alaska Indian Arts 60 years ago.
The tribe bought the Fort’s historic parade grounds, including the tribal house, in January. Brouillette has previously said the tribe is interested in acquiring and restoring the Fort’s hospital building, which served as AIA’s headquarters and artist studios.