About Petersburg
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Petersburg is located in the Tongass National Rainforest - the heart of Alaska's Inside Passage. It is exactly 100 miles north of Ketchican and 100 miles south of Juneau and is at sea level. In the winter, the population is 3,356 and the rainfall average is approximately 106.3 inches per year.
Founded in 1896 by Peter Buschmann, Petersburg is called the town that fish built. It offers visitors a view of an authentic working community. A commercial fishing fleet of over 500 long liners, gillnetters, seiners, trollers, and crab boats can be seen in the harbor at any one time. The mountains surrounding Petersburg are spectacular. Only 30 miles away, at the Canadian border lies Devil's Thumb. A 9,077 foot rock megalith. It's massive height prevented it from being scoured away by ancient glacier activity. Devil's Thumb is considered one of North America's most challenging climbs. |
Photo by Carey Carmichael Case
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Petersburg is an excellent location for the outdoor enthusiast. Fishing, whale watching, boating, glacier tours, hiking, biking and photography activities abound. The town itself offers charm, culture and conveniences. Also known as "Little Norway," Petersburg is steeped in Norwegian heritage. Scandinavian rosemaling (tole painting) cheerfully adorns shutters, entry ways and the inside of many homes and city buildings.
In "ol Norsk" the word 'rosemaling' means flower painting. This 200 year old folk art originated during the long, dark winters in Norway. Bright colors and floral designs were used to brighten peasant homes. Today, Petersburg rosemal artists hone their craft by inviting expert teachers from all over the world to conduct workshops. This lovely art form and dedication historical preservation makes Petersburg a delightful destination. |