During the summer we experienced the joys of traveling around Alaska in our RV. First we ventured up to Fairbanks, where we found a little museum with a fascinating display of a handcrafted miniature creation showing the layout of all the villages and towns along the Yukon River. Even better, the University of Alaska there was having a demonstration of Indigenous games, much like a local Olympics tournament.
Young adult boys from four Athabascan tribes were dressed in skins and beads, some with painted features. The emcee explained that the games were to show how the ancient skills of survival in this northernmost frigid state are being preserved by these young people who learn them. The boys seemed to be having fun, but the skills they demonstrated were strenuous.
