ERIC ED613527: Eleventh Annual Report on Introduction of Domestic Reindeer into Alaska, with Map and Illustrations, 1901. Senate of the United States, 54th Congress, 1st Session. Document No. 98

ERIC ED613527: Eleventh Annual Report on Introduction of Domestic Reindeer into Alaska, with Map and Illustrations, 1901. Senate of the United States, 54th Congress, 1st Session. Document No. 98

Author: ERIC

Year: 1902

General Agent for Alaskan Education Sheldon Jackson's 11th annual report to the Interior secretary on the introduction of reindeer into Alaska from Siberia notes that a number of reindeer were secured from the Ola, Siberia, region for crossing with existent herds. Jackson reports on the herds at Eaton Reindeer Station, at mission stations, and Point Hope. He observes that the annual inspection is a learning opportunity for both superintendents and herders. Data is broken out on herd distribution, five-year increase, congressional appropriations, and expenditures. During the reindeer project's 10 years, 30 to 35 herders have served an apprenticeship of two to five years. Among them, 20 now have their own reindeer. The enterprise's growth has become profitable. Reindeer have transported goods for relief of snowbound troops building telegraph lines, telegraph poles, and telegraph supplies. They have also taken men and supplies to mining camps. Reindeer are the only draft animal in Alaska that can secure its own food when traveling. Although some in the U.S. consider the congressional reindeer appropriation uselessly expended, Jackson observes that the appropriation provides for emerge