ERIC ED613580: Thirteenth Annual Report on Introduction of Domestic Reindeer into Alaska, with Map and Illustrations, 1903. Senate of the United States, 58th Congress, 2nd Session (March 16, 1904). Document No. 210

ERIC ED613580: Thirteenth Annual Report on Introduction of Domestic Reindeer into Alaska, with Map and Illustrations, 1903. Senate of the United States, 58th Congress, 2nd Session (March 16, 1904). Document No. 210

Author: ERIC

Year: 1904

Following a letter of transmittal, this document presents General Agent of Education in Alaska Sheldon Jackson's "13th Annual Report on the Introduction of Domestic Reindeer into Alaska." Winter 1902-03 was unusually severe, but despite difficult conditions overall the reindeer fared unusually well. Currently there are 11 herds of combined 6,505 head. Owners hold their animal under a government agreement preventing slaughter of females for meat and sale of females to other parties than the U.S. government, and ensuring apprentices' instruction in training and breaking deer to harness. Surplus males may be sold for transportation or meat to miners or others in the region. Eskimos have a five-year apprenticeship, and if judged skilled at the end of the term, they are loaned additional deer and continue under supervision for 20 years. If during the 20-year period the government may dispossess a herder from his loan if he fails to care for the herd. Once an apprentice becomes a herder he is expected to train another apprentice, typically a family member. Dr. Jackson estimates that at least 300 natives, counting children and relatives, are being supported by reindeer. No deer were expor