FAQs about the Natural History of the Inside Passage

8. What is a potlatch?

The Eyak, Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian are known for the potlatch, a multi-day ceremony held for a variety of occasions such as a funeral or memorial honoring the dead, a wedding, the naming of a child, the erection of a totem pole, the payment of a debt, the completion of a new house, or to rid the host of a shame. Potlatches might last days and would include feasting, speeches, singing and dancing. Guests witnessed and validated the events and were paid with gifts during the ceremony. High-ranking Eyak, Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian clans and/or individuals were expected to give potlatches. However, a potlatch could be given by a commoner to raise his social position.

Historical Potlatch Photo. Source: Sheldon Museum

Additonal Resources:

Sheldon Museum – Potlatches
Peabody Museum, Harvard University

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