Baranof Castle Hill State Historic Site

Available Activities

Sightseeing

🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 Alaska Transfer Site — The exact spot where Russia transferred Alaska to the United States on October 18, 1867 — where the Russian flag came down and Old Glory went up!

Baranof Castle Hill State Historic Site in Sitka marks one of the most significant moments in American history — the Alaska Transfer Ceremony of October 18, 1867. On this hilltop, Russian soldiers lowered the Imperial Russian flag for the last time while American troops raised the Stars and Stripes — completing the $7.2 million purchase (about 2 cents per acre!) that Secretary of State William Seward negotiated. Critics called it “Seward’s Folly” — until gold was discovered in 1896. The hill was originally a Tlingit fortification, then the site of Russian Governor Alexander Baranov’s castle — the administrative center of Russian America from 1808.

Visitor Information

Detail	Information
Location	Sitka, AK
Entry Fee	Free!
Date	October 18, 1867 — Alaska Transfer!
Price	$7.2M — 2¢ per acre!

About Baranof Castle Hill

Baranof Castle Hill State Historic Site in Sitka is where the transfer ceremony took place on October 18, 1867, when Russia officially sold Alaska to the United States — one of the most consequential real estate transactions in history (“Seward’s Folly”). The hilltop site overlooks Sitka Sound and the Tlingit village. Earlier, it served as the Russian-American Company headquarters under Alexander Baranov.

Things to Do

Standing where the American flag was first raised over Alaska, viewing interpretive panels on the 1867 transfer ceremony, enjoying panoramic views of Sitka Sound and Mount Edgecumbe volcano, and reflecting on Alaska’s Russian colonial heritage. Free admission.

Insider Tips

Historical significance: This is where the Russian-American flag was lowered and the US flag raised on October 18, 1867 — the exact spot where Alaska became American. Pro tip: Visit at sunset for spectacular views over Sitka Sound with Mount Edgecumbe (a dormant volcano) silhouetted against the sky. Free tip: The downtown Sitka walking tour connects Castle Hill to the Russian Bishop’s House and Sitka National Historical Park.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June-August): Longest days, best weather, and cruise ship access. Alaska Day (Oct 18): Annual reenactment of the transfer ceremony — a fascinating event. Fall/Winter: Fewer tourists, moody atmosphere, and potential Northern Lights. Spring: Herring season brings humpback whales into Sitka Sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did the US pay for Alaska?

$7.2 million — about 2 cents per acre. Critics called it “Seward’s Folly” after Secretary of State William Seward. Alaska has since produced over $300 billion in resources.