Story of North Island Sculpture

Carved from cedar, the Story of North Island totem pole whispers tales of resilience. Here at the Montlake Cut, this towering sculpture, crafted by Haida Chief John Wallace, shares a powerful narrative. The Story of North Island totem pole came to life in 1937, originally commissioned for a cannery in Waterfall, Alaska. The Story of North Island depicts an abandoned elder woman who survives through the help of spiritual forces. An eagle, guided by the Spirit of the Rock, provides her sustenance. A bear becomes her adversary, stealing her food. But then through a series of mystical events, she gains a son who safeguards her. The son dreams of a man who transforms the old woman’s humble dwelling into a grand longhouse, adorned with three totems, marking the very first carvings of their kind. This man, with a traditional Haida name, imparted the sacred knowledge of artistic creation, a legacy passed down through generations. The Story of North Island totem pole’s journey to Seattle was not without its challenges. After the cannery closed, it was moved and unfortunately damaged along the way. The Committee of 33, recognizing its artistic and cultural significance, rescued the Story of North Island at an auction. They restored it and generously gifted it to the city of Seattle. In 1983, the totem pole found its permanent home here, overlooking the Montlake Cut. Many of Chief Wallace’s descendants attended the dedication ceremony, honoring their heritage and the spirit of this magnificent artwork. Look closely at the figures carved into the cedar. You’ll see the old woman at the top, a Haida man at the bottom, a young boy nestled between a bear’s feet, and an eagle clutching a fish. The Story of North Island is a testament to survival, the power of dreams, and the enduring legacy of Haida art.