History, Culture and Demographics
The original Eskimo name for the island is "Kigiktaq." In 1816, Lt. Otto Von Kotzebue named the inlet "Shishmarev," after a member of his crew. Excavations at "Keekiktuk" by archaeologists around 1821 provided evidence of Eskimo habitation from several centuries ago. Shishmaref has an excellent harbor, and around 1900 it became a supply center for gold mining activities to the south. The village was named after the Inlet and a post office was established in 1901. The City government was incorporated in 1969. During October 1997, a severe storm eroded over 30 feet of the north shore, requiring 14 homes and the National Guard Armory to be relocated. Five additional homes were relocated in 2002. Other storms have continued to erode the shoreline, an average of 3 to 5 feet per year on the north shore. In July 2002, residents voted to relocate the community. A federally-recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Native Village of Shishmaref. The population of the community consists of 94.5% Alaska Native or part Native. It is a traditional Inupiat Eskimo village with a fishing and subsistence lifestyle. The sale or importation of alcohol is banned. During the 2000 U.S. Census, total housing units numbered 148, and vacant housing units numbered 6. Vacant housing units used only seasonally numbered 4. U.S. Census data for Year 2000 showed 173 residents as employed. The unemployment rate at that time was 16.43 percent, although 51.81 percent of all adults were not in the work force. The median household income was $30,714, per capita income was $10,487, and 16.27 percent of residents were living below the poverty level.

Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
Water is derived from a surface source, is treated and stored in a new tank. Shishmaref is undergoing major improvements, with the construction of a flush/haul system and household plumbing. 19 HUD homes have been completed, and 71 homes remain to be served. There is one school located in the community, attended by 173 students. Local hospitals or health clinics include Katherine Miksruaq Olanna Health Clinic. The clinic is a qualified Emergency Care Center. Shishmaref is classified as an isolated village, it is found in EMS Region 5A in the Norton Sound Region. Emergency Services have coastal and air access. Emergency service is provided by a health aide Auxiliary health care is provided by City Volunteer Fire Department/Emergency Services.

Economy and Transportation
The Shishmaref economy is based on subsistence supplemented by part-time wage earnings. Two residents hold a commercial fishing permit. Year-round jobs are limited. Villagers rely on fish, walrus, seal, polar bear, rabbit, and other subsistence foods. Two reindeer herds are managed from here. Reindeer skins are tanned locally, and meat is available at the village store. The Friendship Center, a cultural center and carving facility, was recently completed for local artisans.

Shishmaref's primary link to the rest of Alaska is by air. A State-owned 5,000' long by 70' wide paved runway is available. Charter and freight services are available from Nome. Most people own boats for trips to the mainland.

For more information on the Native Village of Shishmaref please visit our website or contact:

Brice Eningowuk
P.O. Box 72100
Shishmaref, Alaska 99772
Phone: 907-649-2289
Fax: 907-649-4461