The Noow Hit Tribal House in Haines is the last remaining traditional Tlingit structure constructed in the Chilkat Valley. A 1970s effort to teach a new generation traditional building methods, the tribal house utilizes a Northern Tlingit post and beam structure with hand carved key posts and a stack wall system. It was patterned after the Whale House of Klukwan, an exceptional Tribal House that was well documented and uniquely built in the northern style. The tribal house is made up of one room with a ‘back stage’ area separated by a house screen and two house posts.
After receiving a number of grants, including a Save America’s Treasures grant from the National Park Service, the Chilkoot Indian Association hired MRV Architects as the Historic Architect to stabilize and rehabilitate the Tribal House. In addition to replacing the stacked walls and key posts, the floor will be restored to its original stepped design and a new smoke-hole skylight will be added. The new improvements will also include upgraded lighting, conditioned storage, and improved heating for off-season use. Work is to be completed entirely by tribal members, once again teaching a new generation traditional building methods.
Awards
The Chilkoot Indian Association in Haines, Alaska will stabilize and rehabilitate the Noow Hit Tribal House, the last remaining Tlingit traditional structure constructed in the Chilkat Valley, using traditional Northern Tlingit post and beam building techniques. They have received a number of grants, including a National Park Service Save America’s Treasures grant. MRV Architects has conducted a conditions survey at this time and is working with the Chilkoot Indian Association on conceptual rehabilitation options.
