AVEC Facilities: Wales

AVEC Facilities

Wales

(WAILZ); a.k.a. Kingigin

Wales on a sunny, winter day

Wales is located on Cape Prince of Wales, at the western tip of the Seward Peninsula, 111 miles northwest of Nome. A burial mound of the "Birnirk" culture (500 A.D. to 900 A.D.) was discovered near Wales and is now a national landmark. In 1827 the Russian Navy reported the Eskimo villages of "Eidamoo" near the coast and "King-a-ghe" further inland. In 1890, the American Missionary Association established a mission here, and in 1894 a reindeer station was organized. A post office was established in 1902. Wales became a major whaling center due to its location along migratory routes, and it was the region's largest and most prosperous village, with more than 500 residents. The influenza epidemic in 1918-19 claimed the lives of many of Wales' finest whalers. The City government was incorporated in 1964.

Power plant in summer

Power plant in winter - nearly covered by snowdrifts

Looking out of a power plant door in winter - a path has to
be shoveled through the drifting snow in order to access the module

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Wales Facts

Community Profile

Current Population: 139
# of Consumers: 68
Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City
Total Generating Capacity (kw): 572

Community Facilities

Water derived from Gilbert Creek during the summer
Residents haul treated water from a storage tank. Some use untreated water from Village Creek
Almost all residents use honeybuckets; very few homes currently have plumbing
A honeybucket haul system is in place
The school, clinic and city building are served by piped water
Gravel airstrip
The ice on the Straits is frequently used by planes in the winter
Cargo is delivered by barge, and lightered a half mile to shore.
One school
Local health clinic
Emergency Services have coastal and air access.

Economy

The economy of Wales is based on subsistence hunting and fishing, trapping, Native arts and crafts, and some mining. A private reindeer herd is managed out of Wales and local residents are employed to assist in the harvest. Whales, walrus, polar bear, moose, salmon, and other fish are utilized.

Culture and Activities

A federally-recognized tribe is located in the community -- the Native Village of Wales (a.k.a. Kingigin). Wales has a strong traditional Kinugmiut Eskimo whaling culture. Ancient songs, dances, and customs are still practiced. In the summer, Little Diomede residents travel between the two villages in large traditional skin boats (umiaqs). The sale or importation of alcohol is banned in the village. Umiaqs (skin boats) are still a popular method of sea travel, and snowmobiles are used in winter. There is a 6.5-mile road to Tin City.

Climate

Maritime climate when the Bering Strait is ice-free, usually June to November
After the freeze, there is an abrupt change to a cold continental climate
Average summer temperatures range from 40 to 50
Average winter temperatures range from -10 to 6
Precipitation averages 10 in/yr
Snowfall averages 35 in/yr
Frequent fog, wind and blizzards limit access to Wales.

Community Weather

clear below 12,000 ft Clear, 46°F

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