The town of Wrangell was shaped by four nations, Lingít, Russia, Great Britain, and the United States. This small town offers a layered and compelling story of place and people.

Beginning with the prehistory of the Lingít people and their enduring cultural heritage. Follow the arrival of Russian and British traders and the changes brought by early colonial influence. Continue through the Gold Rush era, when the town saw rapid growth and figures such as Wyatt Earp and John Muir passed through. Learn about the impact of missionaries on Lingít culture and the development of key industries, including fishing, mining, and forestry. The experience concludes with a look at more recent history, highlighting the community’s continued evolution into the modern era.

Museum Admission: Admission is $8 for Alaska residents and $12 for non-residents. Children 12 and under receive free admission.

Gift Shop

The Museum Gift Shop offers a selection of books, regional history titles, works by Southeast Alaska authors, Wrangell apparel, souvenirs, and Lingít artwork. Many items reflect the stories, cultures, and landscapes represented throughout the museum and provide visitors with an opportunity to continue learning beyond the exhibits.

The Nolan Center’s main office is located in the far-left corner of the gift shop. Visitors are welcome to stop by with questions or for assistance during their visit.

The Nolan Center Museum was established in partnership with the Wrangell Historical Society and continues that work today as part of the City and Borough of Wrangell. Originally known as the Wrangell Museum, the institution now serves as a steward of the region’s cultural, historical, and scientific record.

The museum preserves, documents, researches, and interprets the history of Wrangell Island, Ḵaachx̱an.áakʼw, and the surrounding waters. Its collections connect past, present, and future generations, offering insight into the people, cultures, industries, and events that have shaped this place over time.

Exhibitions at the Nolan Center Museum bring together objects, photographs, records, interpretation, and community knowledge to tell Wrangell’s story with care and accuracy. Visitors can explore the enduring presence of the Lingít people, periods of Russian, British, and American influence, and the many local histories that continue to shape Wrangell today.

The museum also maintains teaching and interpretive materials that support hands-on learning, educational programs, and public engagement. Through both its collections and exhibitions, the Nolan Center Museum works to keep Wrangell’s history accessible, meaningful, and connected to the community it serves.

The exhibits within the Nolan Center Lobby and Museum are carefully curated to provide insight into the many eras of our home. From the foundational and enduring presence of the Lingít people to the colonial influences of Russia and Great Britain, and into our current era within the United States, we invite you to walk through time with us.