The Story of Belkofski and Bethel

Belkofski’s story has already ended as it is an abandoned village today. Founded as a Russian Fur Trade settlement, it faded away as the fur trade faded. However, a 2013 effort to save the 850lb bell in the Russian Orthodox Church is keeping the memory alive.Bethel’s story begins with the Yup’ik people who called the place “Mumtrekhogamute” which means “Smokehouse People.” They showed kindness towards the first missionaries who labored to work in the host culture’s language and help with desperate medical needs in the late 1800s. As it became a hub for the surrounding area, Bethel became an aviation haven for adventurers and hunters. The busy airport, cultural events, and a handful of churches are all a part of what makes Bethel, Bethel.Contact the show at [email protected] was created by Evan Van KirkMusic was created by Isaac Bedingfield