Casper Mather in his Carving Shed, February 13, 1953

Paulu T. Saari

In his long life, Casper Mather wore many hats. A Tsimshian Indian, he was one of the first settlers of Metlakatla, having come to Alaska from Canada in 1887 with Father Duncan. He was a one-time packer on the Chilkoot Trail, a 50-ton ship's pilot, blacksmith and an evangelist. He is most remembered, however, for his unique woodcarvings. In his later years, he produced innumerable carvings in his small shop on Woodland Avenue, selling them to tourists and locals alike. Mather died in 1972 at the age of 97.

Ketchikan Museums: Paulu T. Saari Collection, KM 2003.2.63.1309