Holy Assumption Russian Orthodox Church Complex, Kenai, Kenai Peninsula Borough, AK

Significance: The Holy Assumption Russian Orthodox Church has been the principal and most enduring representative of Russian culture in south-central Alaska from 1841 to the present. For the Kenaitze Indians, who are still a significant portion of the population, it was the major institution for the assimilation of western culture. In particular, it served as an educational, religious, administrative, and judicial center well into the twentieth century. It also provided the region's first access to public health. The three structures on the site represent classic Russian-style architecture on the far-western frontier. The Church of the Holy Assumption is a fine example of a village church; it is a classic example of the Pskov, vessel or ship, design. It is also the oldest standing Orthodox church in Alaska. The rectory is typical of the homes of the Russian village gentry and at the time of its construction was clearly a substantial landmark, being the only two-story structure in the community. The chapel is an excellent example of Russian techniques of log construction and engineering of the Russian-trained builders of the Kenai peninsula.
Unprocessed Field note material exists for this structure: FN-12
Survey number: HABS AK-39
Building/structure dates: 1896 Initial Construction
National Register of Historic Places NRIS Number: 70000898