Travel Provides both Historical and Cultural Lessons

Although at one time photography was banned in Whittier, Alaska, because a secret facility resided there, that is no longer the case in this remote and wind-swept location guarded by Whittier Glacier. Originally known as H-12 and built to support the World War II effort and to provide a more reliable supply route for the Alaska Rail Road, today Whittier is a popular launch point for cruises, halibut charters, sea kayaking, and the Alaska State Ferry.

This tourist destination has a rich and storied past. Chugach Eskimos have hunted and gathered in this area for thousands of years. They trekked...