Description
Book SynopsisMary F. Ehrlander illuminates the remarkable life of Walter Harper, a traditionally raised Koyukon Athabascan of Irish Athabascan descent who was a leader of his people during his brief life.
Trade Review“[A] wonderfully written testament to a life of adventure. The Walter Harper we come to know is immensely likable, and his escapades irresistible. He was one of the great Alaskans of his time. This book is a fitting tribute.”—David A. James,
Anchorage Daily News“In Ehrlander’s affectionate portrait a century later, Walter Harper reclaims some of his lost potential to serve as a ‘role model for individuals with mixed heritage the world over.’”—Margaret Thomas,
Alaska History“Ehrlander’s portrait is of a remarkable young man who lived life to the fullest. An inspiring example of resilience, character, faith, service, and loving-kindness, Walter Harper’s legacy is a testament to the Native peoples of Alaska, the indomitable human spirit, and the selflessness of those who work as missionaries in the Church in the harshest and remotest of places.”—Jason VanBorrsum,
Anglican and Episcopal History“A fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in Alaskan history through the story of the short life of Walter Harper, a protégé of the redoubtable missionary Hudson Stuck. The men and women of Alaska were tough and hearty souls.”—Steve Thomas, author and host of
This Old House and
Renovation Nation and grandson of the Reverend William A. Thomas, a contemporary of Walter Harper
“Not only a fine work of history but a rousing adventure tale and a love story. This is a great book.”—Terrence M. Cole, professor of history at the University of Alaska Fairbanks
“A concise picture of Walter Harper’s character and personality. This is a historical account of a courageous Athabascan leader whom we all should learn about.”—Walter Carlo, chairman of the board of Doyon Limited, the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act corporation for the Athabascans of Alaska’s interior
“A fine biography of a young man of talent and energy who successfully coped with two cultures during a time of rapid change in Alaska. Mary Ehrlander has employed crisp and enlightening prose to illuminate both the era and the history of the Yukon region.”—John Bockstoce, Arctic historian and archaeologist
“Mary Ehrlander’s assiduous scholarship combined with a delightful storytelling style make
Walter Harper, Alaska Native Son both easy to read and available for multiple fields of academic interest.”—Phyllis Fast, professor of anthropology emeritus at the University of Alaska Anchorage, and great-niece of Walter Harper
Table of ContentsList of Illustrations
List of Maps
Preface
Introduction
1. Childhood and Adolescence
2. On the River and on the Trail with Archdeacon Stuck
3. Ascent of Denali
4. Mount Hermon School
5. Return to Alaska
6. The Winter Circuit
7. Summer and Fall 1918
Epilogue: Harper’s Legacy
Notes
Bibliography
Index
