Scope and Contents: This collection contains recordings dating from circa 1910 to 2007, and primarily consisting of oral history recordings, Tlingit oratory, and recordings of Tlingit events, such as cultural gatherings. These recordings have been obtained by SHI from various donors, and the collection will continue to grow as more recordings are obtained.
The vast bulk of the recordings in this collection are audio only, with a few audiovisual. Many of the recordings are entirely in the Tlingit language, and most with no English translations. The various speakers on these recordings provide information on many topics, including life histories and family genealogies; clan and crest histories; Tlingit political and social systems and customs; gathering and harvesting practices; art forms such as basketry, carving, weaving; legends and stories; songs; and the Tlingit language. Many Tlingit clans are represented in this collection. Overall, this collection provides a wealth of information on various subjects relative to Tlingit culture, oratory, history, and language.