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| ATLIN Big Water. |
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Atlin, the Tlingit place name “A Tien” meaning the “big water” originally referred to the union of three Lakes; Atlin Lake, Little Atlin Lake and Tagish Lake. These lakes were one in the post glacier period nearly 10,000 years ago. During this era lake levels were estimated at 150 meters higher than they are today and during the flood period the people traveled by rafts and took refuge on the tallest peeks, one being Jubilee Mountain at almost 6000 ft. Tlingit camped and settled at the current site of Atlin, formerly known as “Wenah” which meant ‘alkali’, the mineral lick that attracted the Caribou for the salt. Caribou being more plentiful than moose were the primary source of meat. Caribou meat was dried and smoked by the shore. Abundant Salmon, as well as fresh water fish have provided for the Tlingit in the Atlin region. The Taku River Salmon are known around the world as ‘The Salmon’. A commercial drift net fishery on the Taku River supplies local and global markets. Tlingit traditions are still practiced and the history and cultural of the region is a living legacy. Craftsmanship, trading and transportation are the products and services of the centuries that still maintain this unique lifestyle. The Whitepass Company built a Hotel on the lakefront
in 1917 and the M.V. Tarahne transported the influx of visitors
and the tons
of cargo destined for the Gold fields. This golden era flourished
until the depression of the mid-30’s. Float plane and heli tours, boat tours, hiking, guided Llewellyn Glacier Walk, skiing, dog sledding, kayak, canoes, theatre, craft & music festivals, northern gardens, Quilts, Tea in the Garden, Tea on the Tarahne, shops and museums to name just the most obvious. The people are the true treasures of Atlin. Atlin & Arts & Music Festival, Atlin Events Coordinator (877) 399-2665 Carolyn Moore The Atlin District Board of Trade (250) 651-7717 George Holman, President |
