Margaret Frans Brady Fund, MOS and STC partner to install bilingual street signs

A pilot project to replace street signs on some Skagway streets with signs that depict both English and Lingít, begins this fall on the northern end of Broadway Street.

The project, funded by the Margaret Frans Brady Fund (MFB), STC Tribal Transportation Program funds, and Municipality of Skagway funds,  involves installing  new signage on Broadway between 8th and 15th Avenues as well as the intersections with 15th at Main Street and Alaska Street. 

Dr. X’unei Lance Twitchell helped the partners translate the street signs into Lingít.

“This project would not have been possible without his [Twitchell]  linguistic knowledge. The Indigenous representation on public street signs ensures Indigenous voices are seen, heard, and valued as an integral part of Shgagwéi’s present and future,” said STC Administrator, Hara Kinjo-Hischer.

The project hopes that adding Indigenous language to street signs will honor the land’s original stewards, and keep the local indigenous language visible and alive. The idea is to help residents and visitors discover Skagway’s history beyond the gold rush. 

On a trip to Ireland, MFB advisor and former Skagway News publisher, Jeff Brady was inspired.

“I noticed that most of the street signs included Gaelic, and I thought this could be done with Lingít on Skagway street signs,” said Brady. “I approached Skagway Traditional Council, who was enthusiastic about the idea, and together we began working with the Municipality. The MFB Fund pledged $50,000 toward the project, and we are happy to see it finally happening. Soon Skagway School children and others will be counting in Lingít on their walks to school.”

“This pilot street sign project highlights the deep Lingít history of our community,” said Borough Mayor Orion Hanson.

The signs will be larger than the current signs. As such, the  pilot program will test for wind load and other factors before expanding the project to eventually include all street signs.