Introduction of Reindeer into Alaska. Preliminary Report of the General Agent of Education for Alaska to the Commissioner of Education, 1890

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Credit for the introduction of domesticated reindeer into Alaska actually goes to William Thomas Lopp, chief of the Alaska division of the bureau of education. When asked how he ha ppened to hit upon the idea, Mr. Lopp said it occurred to him in 1890 during his first winter in the native village at Cape Prince of Wales. Suddenly the idea of using reindeer as a means of food, clothing and transportation suggested itself to him. His mind went back to his geography lessons in school. Here he was, living in the same latitude as the Lapps, who, as he had learned, depended upon the reindeer for their livelihood. Naturally, the same climatic conditions suggested the feasibility of the reindeer industry in Alaska. Captain M. A. Healy, who commanded the revenue cutter "Bear," transmitted the idea to Dr. Sheldon Jackson, who in turn requested Congress to provide funds for buying Siberian reindeer. This request was ultimately met and in 1892 a herd of 170 reindeer was brought over from Siberia to Port Clarence. Following this delivery, regular shipments were made for a decade. Show more