Totem Square, Sitka

Totem Square is a central landmark in downtown Sitka, bordered by City Hall, the Pioneers' Home, the waterfront, the Totem Square Hotel, and the main commercial district. In November 2011, its iconic totem pole was returned after restoration by local master carver Tommy Joseph at the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center in Sitka National Historical Park. The work followed George Benson's original design, preserving the pole's historic appearance. A 2007 study identified Totem Square as one of Sitka's key visitor destinations, and the return of the restored totem pole reinforced its role as an enduring symbol of the city's Native heritage and community identity.

The totem pole standing in the square is commonly known as the Baranof Pole, designed in 1940 by renowned Tlingit artist George Benson. Rather than depicting traditional clan crests alone, it illustrates key episodes from Sitka's history, including the meeting of Tlingit and Russian cultures. The pole also features the Russian double-headed eagle, reflecting the city's unique colonial past. Nearby, visitors will find a historic Russian cannon and several large anchors recovered from local waters, adding further reminders of Sitka's maritime and multicultural heritage.