Ethnology is the branch of anthropology that analyzes aspects of contemporary human cultures and societies, both in terms meaningful to them, and comparatively across space and time. History, at UAMN, is the study of the non-Native activities and objects found in Alaska.

The Ethnology Collection includes over 12,000 objects made and used by Alaska Natives (Inupiaq and Yup'ik Eskimos, northwest coast and Athabascan Indians, and Aleuts) from the 1800's to the present. There are exceptional examples of basketry, beadwork, ivory carvings, masks, dolls, and gear used in subsistence activities.

The History Collection has over 3,000 objects of Western manufacture including technology, folk art, tools, firearms, Russian-American material, aviation pioneer Carl Ben Eielson's airplane, and other memorabilia used and made by and for Alaskans.

The collections are available to researchers upon appointment and for loan to other institutions.

Staff:

Curator Emerita: Molly Lee, Ph.D.
Collections Manager: Angela J. Linn, M.A.

The Ethnology & History department is actively seeking volunteers! See the link under Current Projects to learn how you can gain valuable experience working with museum artifacts while having a flexible schedule. No prior experience required - we'll provide the professional training.

Click here to learn how you can preserve your own collections for future generations.

Click here to learn about the benefits of donating your collections to the UAMN ethnology & history department.