Population
167
Tribe
Native Village of Wales, Contact
Culture
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.
History
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.
