UPDATE: Tribal canoe journey landing greeted by thousands at Alki
UPDATE: Tribal canoe journey landing greeted by thousands at Alki
The inter tribal canoe journey, hosted by the Muckleshoot Tribe came to Alki Beach on July 30.
Photo by Kimberly Robinson
Sun, 07/30/2023
Update 7/30
The arrival of the canoes from many tribes, part of a an inter tribal canoe journey was attended by thousands of people, many of them the families of those whose hard paddling work brought them from points around Western Washington and beyond. Tents were set up with chairs for observers as the canoes arrived around 11 am. They massed offshore and individually called out to other tribes on land, asking permission to come ashore. Once granted they paddled in and the call went out for each, asking for help from those willing to bear the canoes up the beach.
The canoes arrived at Alki Beach starting around 11am. Photo by Patrick Robinson
Many tribal members were on shore to greet them. Photo by Patrick Robinson
The arrival of the canoes could be seen from passing ferries. Photo by Patrick Robinson
The canoes massed offshore for a few minutes. Photo by Patrick Robinson
A large number of volunteers were needed to carry the heavy canoes up the beach. Photo by Patrick RobinsonEach canoe had to be dragged up out of the water before being carried. Photo by Patrick Robinosn
Tribal members were joined by volunteers in carrying the canoes. Photo by Patrick Robinson
Thousands of people came to greet the canoes as they arrived. Photo by Kimberly Robinson
Each canoe asked permission to come ashore. Photo by Kimberly Robinson
A boy, too young to really lift the canoes, imitated his elders. Photo by Kimberly Robinson
This was a fun, If occasionally heavy event, that brought together many different people. Photo by Kimberly Robinson
Original Post 7/28
On July 30, 100 canoes will land at Alki Beach, likely in the noon hour in the return of a very special event. It's the first time since before the pandemic that the Inter-Tribal Canoe Journey will be staged. Hosted by the Muckleshoot Tribe for the first time since 2006.
After first asking for permission to come ashore (a long tradition) they will land the canoes and the public can see the craftsmanship of the canoe builders and the various tribal decorations.
The canoes will stay overnight under guard as the tribal members are transported to Auburn and the new Muckleshoot Community Center where a dinner and celebration will be held. Tribal members will return for the canoes the following day.
The canoes made by Native American tribal members are often remarkable works of art as seen in this image from 2016. File photo by Patrick Robinson
