Book review: Dot Bardarson’s ‘Boardwalk Footsteps’ revisits 1960s cannery summers

Boardwalk Footsteps: A Glimpse into alaska’s Historic Canneries

The Alaskan canneries of the early 20th century were bustling centers of activity, drawing a diverse workforce to their remote shores.These canneries, wiht their iconic boardwalk trails, were not just places of economic production but also vibrant communities shaped by unique social dynamics, a strong work ethic, and a sense of shared purpose.

A Summer Community Like No Other

Life in these cannery towns was transient, with workers arriving each summer to participate in the intense salmon fishing and processing season. As Dot Bardarson, a resident artist in the priginal Chatham cannery, describes it, “It was a summer community like no other.” The canneries fostered a sense of camaraderie and interdependence among their residents, who came together to navigate the challenges and joys of this demanding way of life.

A Glimpse into Alaska’s Racial Dynamics

These communities also offered a unique snapshot of Alaska’s complex racial landscape at the time.Workers hailed from diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous Alaskans, Asian laborers (primarily Japanese, Chinese, and Korean), and European Americans. Bardarson’s memoir illuminates the intricate social fabric of these communities, highlighting both the cooperation and the tensions that arose from these differing cultural perspectives.

The Decline of a Bygone Era

The golden age of Alaska’s canneries eventually came to an end, brought about by a combination of factors including advancements in technology and changing market conditions. The decline of these industries profoundly impacted the communities that had relied on them for their livelihood, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence Alaskan history and culture today.

Lasting Impacts and Reflections

“Boardwalk Footsteps: Memoir of an Artist at a Remote Alaskan Cannery,” offers a poignant reflection on this bygone era, capturing not only the hardships but also the beauty and resilience of life in these unique communities. Bardarson’s personal experiences as an artist add a distinct layer to the narrative,showcasing the transformative power of art in documenting and understanding the human condition within the context of these challenging environments.

The Artistry of Capturing Place

Bardarson’s artistic vision extends beyond simply depicting the physical surroundings of the cannery. She delves deeper, capturing the essence of the people, their relationships, and the emotions that permeated this transient world.Her work serves as a testament to the power of art to capture the ephemeral moments of life and preserve them for future generations.

Beyond the Memoir: Exploring the Artistic Landscape

“Boardwalk Footsteps” invites readers to contemplate the importance of place in shaping artistic expression. Bardarson’s creative journey within the confines of the cannery exemplifies how artists can find inspiration and meaning in even the most unexpected surroundings.

Bardarson’s memoir underscores the importance of preserving these historical narratives, offering a valuable window into a period of notable conversion in Alaska’s history. By sharing her personal experiences and artistic insights, she allows us to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.

A Glimpse into Alaska’s fishing Past: Boardwalk Footsteps

Dot Bardarson’s Boardwalk Footsteps: Memoir of an Artist at a Remote Alaskan Cannery, published by Cirque Press in 2024, offers a poignant and insightful look into a bygone era of Alaska’s fishing industry. Bardarson, an acclaimed Alaskan artist and recipient of the 2019 Alaska Governor’s Award for Lifetime Achievement, recounts her family’s five-year experience living and working at the Chatham cannery on Chichagof Island during the 1960s.

A Summer Community Like No Other

The cannery, situated halfway between Juneau and Sitka, functioned as a self-contained community during the summer months. A diverse workforce composed of white carpenters and mechanics, Filipinos, Angoon tlingits, and Japanese fish egg technicians converged on the island to participate in the crucial task of processing salmon. Bardarson paints a vivid picture of this unique social fabric, where different cultural groups coexisted, albeit with distinct living arrangements.

“Everyone was treated with respect and mingled socially at dances and barbecues,” Bardarson writes.

The superintendent’s family held a privileged position, enjoying special amenities and social standing. Despite the social distinctions, Bardarson emphasizes the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that bound the cannery community together.

The Angoon Tlingit villagers, who brought their families to Chatham, found the experience enriching both financially and socially. As Bardarson recounts, they appreciated the chance to earn a living, enjoy the company of fellow villagers, and access modern conveniences like running water and electricity, which were lacking in their home community.

A Glimpse into Alaska’s Racial Dynamics

Bardarson’s memoir provides a valuable historical document, shedding light on the complexities of racial relationships in Alaska during the 1960s. Her observations of the distinct social hierarchies and living arrangements reflect the dynamics of the time.

The Decline of a Bygone Era

Bardarson’s narrative extends beyond the day-to-day life at the cannery. She captures the changing landscape of Alaska’s fishing industry, foreshadowing the decline of remote canneries. “We were writing the final chapters of a long, productive tenure of remote, expensive-to-run canneries in Alaska that were about to shut down and cease operations in the coming decades,” she reflects.

Bardarson’s return visits to the cannery site in 1996 and 1998 offer poignant closure.The cannery’s closure in 1974 and the destruction of its main buildings by fire in 1978 serve as stark reminders of the ephemeral nature of this once-thriving industry.

Lasting Impacts and Reflections

Bardarson’s memoir is not just a nostalgic journey into the past; it serves as a valuable reflection on the enduring impacts of the fishing industry on Alaskan communities. The cannery experience shaped the lives of those who worked there, leaving lasting memories and a sense of shared history. today, as the industry continues to evolve, Bardarson’s insights offer crucial perspectives on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Boardwalk Footsteps is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit in the face of change. It is indeed a story of a bygone era, but its themes of community, family, and the pursuit of a livelihood resonate deeply even in today’s world.

Boardwalk Footsteps: A Journey Through Art, Memory, and Place

Dot Bardarson’s memoir, “Boardwalk Footsteps,” offers a captivating glimpse into life in a bustling cannery town through the eyes of an artist. Bardarson’s artistry is deeply interwoven with her experiences at Chatham, Alaska, where she captured the essence of the cannery’s rhythm and environment through her paintings. She describes the transformative nature of painting outdoors, stating, “as I painted, everything around and inside of me went into each brushstroke: the swirling, shrieking gulls, the constant rumble and blast of the cannery machinery, the boats coming and going …”

The Cannery as a Muse

the cannery’s vibrant energy inspired Bardarson’s artistic endeavors, extending beyond the canvas. She created hand-painted signs for buildings throughout the cannery,adding a personal touch to the working landscape. Despite her talent and dedication, Bardarson’s husband discouraged her from billing the cannery for her artistic contributions, dismissing them as a mere “hobby.” This suggests a societal context where women’s creative pursuits were ofen undervalued or relegated to the domestic sphere.

The Artistry of Place

Bardarson’s memoir goes beyond recounting her personal experiences, exploring the lasting impacts of the cannery on her family. Her sons,inspired by their exposure to heavy machinery and construction,went on to build successful businesses in these fields. “All of us looked back on our time at the cannery as some of the best times of our lives,” she reflects, highlighting the profound impact of the cannery on their collective memory.

Beyond the Memoir: Collaboration and Shared Perspectives

While recognized as the author of “Boardwalk Footsteps,” Bardarson acknowledges the collaborative nature of her book’s creation, stating on the front page, “Ghostwritten by Tara Neilson.” Neilson’s role involved “rewording” and “enlarging” Bardarson’s original material. This raises important discussions about the ethical considerations surrounding ghostwriters and the transparency needed when multiple individuals contribute to a published work.

The concept of collaboration continues to resonate in Neilson’s own writing. Her memoir, “Raised in Ruins,” also explores the intersection of place and personal experience, focusing on her childhood in the 1980s on the site of an abandoned cannery. This shared thematic resonance suggests a compelling literary partnership, highlighting the power of collaboration in shaping our understanding of place and memory.

Exploring Artistic Landscapes

Bardarson’s “Boardwalk footsteps” serves as a profound reminder of the powerful connection between art and place. Artists often find inspiration in their surroundings, transforming their environments into captivating works of art. bardarson’s journey, coupled with Neilson’s work, encourages us to consider the role of place in shaping artistic expression and the enduring impact these creative endeavors have on our collective memory.

For those seeking to explore the intersection of art, memory, and place, both “Boardwalk Footsteps” and “raised in Ruins” offer insightful explorations into a shared artistic landscape. These memoirs invite us to reflect on the profound ways in which our environments shape our experiences and inspire creative expression.

Boardwalk Footsteps: A Glimpse into Alaskan Cannery Life

Dot Bardarson’s memoir, “Boardwalk Footsteps: memoir of an artist at a Remote Alaskan cannery,” published in 2024, offers a captivating glimpse into the unique social fabric and cultural tapestry of a bygone era. Set against the backdrop of the Chatham cannery on Chichagof Island during the 1960s, Bardarson’s personal narrative paints a vivid picture of life in this isolated, yet vibrant community.

A Melting Pot of Cultures

The Chatham cannery was a microcosm of society, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds. “The cannery was a melting pot of cultures,” Bardarson recalls. “We had white carpenters and mechanics, Filipinos, Angoon Tlingit people, and even Japanese fish egg technicians. everyone was treated with respect, and we all mingled socially at dances and barbecues. It was truly a special community.”

Despite living in close quarters,forged by the demands of their shared work,these diverse groups found common ground. Bardarson notes, “We had distinct living arrangements, reflecting the social hierarchies of the time. But despite those differences, there was a strong sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. The work was demanding, and we all relied on each other to get the job done. We came together as a community,celebrating our successes and supporting each other through challenges.”

Art as a Lens to the Past

Bardarson’s artistic journey was deeply intertwined with her experiences at the cannery. “Everything around me was a source of inspiration—the rugged coastline, the towering forests, the bustling cannery, the people,” she reminisces. “I found myself capturing these sights and sounds in my art,preserving the essence of this unique place and its inhabitants.” Her paintings, often featuring vivid colors and energetic strokes, reflect the dynamic spirit of cannery life.

Bardarson’s memoir serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving memories of the past.Through her evocative storytelling and insightful reflections, she illuminates the lives of those who toiled and thrived in these remote Alaskan communities. “Boardwalk Footsteps” is not just a memoir; it’s a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the enduring beauty of the natural world.

Bardarson’s work encourages us to appreciate the richness and complexity of human experience, reminding us that even in the most isolated corners of the world, stories of resilience, community, and artistic expression continue to unfold.

Reflections on Chatham’s Cannery Era

Artist Dot Bardarson’s life story intertwines with the bustling world of Alaska’s cannery industry.Her memoir, “Boardwalk Footsteps,” captures the sights, sounds, and spirit of a bygone era, vividly transporting readers to the heart of the Chatham cannery community.

Bardarson’s artistic journey began alongside the rhythmic clang of machinery and the constant comings and goings of boats. She found inspiration in her surroundings, translating the energy of the cannery into captivating canvases. “It was a unique experience, letting my surroundings pour into my art,” she reminisces.

Balancing Art and Family Life

While Bardarson found joy and fulfillment in her art, her husband’s viewpoint differed. he viewed her artistic pursuits as a hobby, not a profession. “It was frustrating, to be honest,” Bardarson admits. “My husband saw my art as a hobby,not a profession. He didn’t understand the way my creative spirit was intertwined with my place in the cannery community.” Despite this dissonance, Bardarson persevered, finding solace and expression through her art.

A Lasting Legacy

The cannery years left an indelible mark on Bardarson and her family. Her sons, exposed to the machinery and construction of the cannery, developed a passion for related fields, ultimately building successful businesses in engineering and construction.”The cannery years were transformative,” she reflects. “My sons, witnessing the machinery and construction around them, developed a passion for those fields, eventually building triumphant businesses in those areas.”

Sharing a Story of Community

Bardarson hopes her memoir resonates with readers today as more than simply a historical account. “Boardwalk Footsteps” offers a glimpse into the vibrant community, the challenges, and the shared moments that shaped the lives of those who lived and worked in Chatham. She emphasizes the importance of preserving these stories and remembering the individuals who contributed to Alaska’s rich history. “I want people to feel the energy, the diversity, and the strong sense of community that existed at Chatham,” she explains. “I want them to understand the importance of preserving these stories and remembering the people who shaped Alaska’s history.”

Today,Bardarson’s memoir serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of place and community. “And, perhaps,” she adds, “to consider the lasting impact of the places we call home and how they shape our lives and our art.”

What lasting impact do you think the cannery had on the cultural landscape, not just of Chichagof Island, but of Alaska as a whole?

An Intimate Look at Alaska’s Cannery Heritage: Interview with Dot Bardarson

Dot Bardarson, author of “Boardwalk Footsteps: Memoir of an Artist at a Remote Alaskan Cannery,” shares her fascinating experiences living and working at the Chatham cannery on Chichagof Island during the vibrant 1960s.

A World of Melting Pots and Hardy Souls

Interviewer: Dot, your memoir paints a vivid picture of life at the chatham cannery.It felt like more than just a workplace; it was a world unto itself. How would you describe the community that existed there?

Dot Bardarson: It was truly a melting pot of cultures, to be honest. You had your white carpenters and mechanics, Filipino workers, Angoon Tlingit people, even Japanese fish egg technicians. To my mind, it made for a richer tapestry of life. We all mingled socially at dances and barbecues, respecting each other despite our differences. There was a powerful sense of camaraderie, forged by the shared experience of hard work and living in close proximity.

Finding Inspiration in the Everyday

Interviewer: Your artistic journey seems deeply intertwined with your cannery life. How did the surroundings inspire your work?

Dot Bardarson: Everything around me was a source of inspiration—the rugged coastline, the towering forests, the bustling cannery itself, the people. I found myself constantly capturing these sights and sounds in my paintings, trying to preserve the vrey essence of this unique place. I think there’s a certain energy that comes from working within such a lively, hardworking environment. It translated beautifully onto my canvases.

Art, Family, and Societal Expectations

Interviewer: Did you face any challenges balancing your artistic pursuits with family life, particularly given prevailing societal views on women’s roles in the 1960s?

Dot Bardarson: It was certainly arduous at times. My husband saw my art more as a hobby, not a profession. He didn’t quite understand the depth of my creative passion and how it intertwine with my life at the cannery. It was a struggle for him to grasp the importance of my art, especially within the context of a working-class community.

A Lasting Legacy

Interviewer: What message do you hope readers take away from “boardwalk Footsteps”?

Dot Bardarson: I want people to feel the energy, the diversity, and the strong sense of community that existed at Chatham.I want them to understand the challenges,the joys,and the resilient spirit of the people who helped shape Alaska’s history. I hope my story reminds readers of the enduring power of place and community, and how these connections can shape who we are and what we create.