The town of Utqiaġvik formerly known as Barrow, is one of the northernmost public community in the world. It can be considered the rooftop of Alaskan state. The city's unique name "Utqiaġvik" refers to the gathering of wild root. It is only accessible by plane or boat
Whale Bone Arch In Barrow Town
Population
Utqiaġvik is inhabited by the Inupiat tribe of approx. 4000 people which belong to one of the native communities of Alaska. For the 4000 people living in this region, fishing, hunting whales and other wild animals including polar bears is the primary source of nourishment. The outskirts of the town are home to a diverse range of wildlife including whales, walrus, polar bears, and reindeer
Inupiat People in Their Traditional Dress
The Last Sunset Of The Year
The most interesting fact about this place is that when the sun sets here in around mid-November, it doesn’t rise again for 65 days. For 2 months the people of Utqiaġvik get used to living without sunlight. Such prolonged period of darkness can be challenging and tough psychologically. But the native community of Inupiat defy all the challenges of nature and continue to lead their lives. One requires true character to face such challenges from nature.
Utqiaġvik (Formerly Barrow) Town
Archaeologists and anthropologists believe that the Iñupiat have lived in this region for more than 15 thousand years. Surviving traditionally from hunting, fishing and wild plants. The adaptability of the people in this region is incredible. The habit of passing down useful knowledge and skills to the younger generation has enabled the community to survive the harsh weathers and environment.
Our Inspiration
At Alaskan Leather Company we take our inspiration from the people of this region who have the spirit to wait for the next sunshine and to remain steadfast in tough times. Our leather products are ingrained with toughness and quality. That is one reason why we boldly claim “BORN TOUGH”.