The Crests of Tlingit Clans (Box of Knowledge Series)

This Sealaska Heritage Institute Box of Knowledge publication presents a collection of first-person narratives about how different Tlingit clans acquired specific crest designs. The narratives were prepared from transcripts of oral histories, interviews, videos, and speeches given by clan leaders and clan spokespersons representing the clans whose crests are described. Crests are the most important symbols of the history and identity of Tlingit clans, acquired by ancestors in the ancient past and representing crucial encounters with animal persons and spiritual beings that determine the unique identity and character of clan members. Most clans have more than one crest and this publication will be expanded in the future to include additional crests claimed by these clans as well as additional clans. The purpose of the publication is to provide images of clan crests for which duplication by non-clan members is a violation of Tlingit customary laws and practices.