Cities and Towns in Petersburg Borough, Alaska

Founded in 2013, Petersburg Borough is one of 20 boroughs in the state of Alaska. Historically, Petersburg Borough was formed from Incorporated after voters approved borough formation in December 2012. The city of Petersburg is the borough seat. With FIPS code of 195, Petersburg Borough has a population of 3,356 and area of 2,901 square miles (7,514 km²).

Major Cities and Towns in Petersburg Borough, Alaska

Petersburg

  • Area: 46.0 square miles
  • Population: 3,398 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 99833
  • Latitude and Longitude: 56.8125° N, 132.9556° W

Location and History

Petersburg is the only incorporated city within Petersburg Borough, located on Mitkof Island in southeastern Alaska. The town was founded in 1897 by Norwegian immigrant Peter Buschmann, who established a sawmill and cannery, giving rise to a thriving fishing community. Due to its Norwegian roots, Petersburg is often referred to as “Little Norway,” and this heritage is celebrated annually during the town’s Little Norway Festival. The town’s economy has traditionally been centered around commercial fishing, particularly for salmon, halibut, and crab, making it one of the most productive fishing ports in Alaska. The location of Petersburg on the Wrangell Narrows, a narrow and protected waterway, has made it an ideal location for a fishing fleet, with a natural harbor that remains ice-free year-round. Over the years, Petersburg has developed a strong sense of community, with a deep connection to the sea and the natural environment.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Petersburg is served by the Petersburg City School District, with Petersburg High School being the primary educational institution. The town is home to several significant landmarks, including the Clausen Memorial Museum, which offers exhibits on the area’s history, culture, and the fishing industry that has sustained it for over a century. Another key site is the Sons of Norway Hall, a historic building that serves as a cultural center for the town’s Norwegian heritage and hosts various community events and festivals. The nearby LeConte Glacier, one of the most active tidewater glaciers in North America, is a major attraction, offering boat tours that allow visitors to witness calving icebergs up close. Petersburg’s annual Little Norway Festival celebrates the town’s Scandinavian heritage with parades, dancing, and traditional foods, drawing visitors from across Alaska and beyond. The combination of rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings makes Petersburg a vibrant and welcoming community in southeastern Alaska.

Map of Cities in Petersburg Borough, AK

Map of Cities in Petersburg Borough, AK