History Afloat
In 2021 and 2023, Ketchikan Museums partnered with local photographer Brooke Ratzat to document the maritime history of Ketchikan and Southern Southeast Alaska. Through her interviews, Ratzat records contemporary voices for future generations. Her photography offers an intimate look at the lives of those working on the waterfront. As a result of this collaboration, Ketchikan Museums added over 2,000 photographs and 26 interviews to its permanent collection. This exhibit features a selection of photographs and interviews from both projects.
Meet the Photographer
Brooke Ratzat grew up in the harbors of Southeast Alaska and has been working or living on boats for most of her life. Brooke and her husband, Charlie, have commercial fished off and on over the last 20 years. They now own and operate Homestead Skiffs, a marine fabrication business. Brooke has always kept her camera at the ready, from documenting fieldwork for the Alaska Department of Fish & Game, to capturing life as a fishing family. Brooke has a deep appreciation and respect for Ketchikan's maritime trades and the people who work in them.
"As a fisherman I know that not everyone gets invited aboard to share a cup of coffee and stories. Through this work I was given a free pass to ask all my questions and to put my camera lens in all the spaces my curiosity could imagine. This work started when I shared with the museum staff my love for old wooden boats and how much I'd love to photograph them before we lose them to time and tide. I had no idea how much I would love the interview process. From the first interview to the last my mind was blown. I learned that we need to document today, because it's tomorrow's history. I am so thankful to the Ketchikan Museums staff and to everyone who invited me aboard their boats, into their homes, engine rooms, labs, and offices. This work has been my dream job." - Brooke Ratzat
Programs and Activities:
Navigating Nautical Knots
We have chosen some of the most common knots used by people from all walks of life near and on the water. Knowing these knots, why they're used, and how to use them in the right context will keep you all squared away. Watch the video demonstration, follow the steps, and have fun practicing these useful knots!