Harlampy Sokolof was a charter member of the Juneau Men's Igloo.

Sokolof was born in Sitka, Alaska on February 22, 1863. He graduated from the Russian Seminary, in Sitka.

He states that “I was hired in Sitka., Alaska on May 29th 1881 as interpreter on U.S. Navy vessel Wachusetts, commanded by Capt. Glass. Cruising over waters of Southeastern Alaska destroying the Hootchinoo or whiskey made by natives of Sitka, Juneau, Hoonah, Killisnoo, Klawock, Shakaw and Wrangell & Chilkoot and to free the slaves of the Indian tribes. To also break up witchcraft. To break up the hold of the medicine man. Thirteen medicine men were shamed to break them up. The natives were married according to caste and had three and as high as four wives for each chief or huntsman.

I also had experience in 1878 when the Osprey Canadian Gunboat H.M.S. Osprey came to protect the town of Sitka from the massacre of the Indians. Served at watch with my father in protecting the old and young people.

Also had experience with a brown bear, a document which is on file at the Governor’s Office in Juneau. Was surveying quartz claim for A.P. Swineford. The party was composed of Russell, Alex Toles… (sp) and myself. The bear broke my arm and leg. I retain the marks to this day.

I have acted as court interpreter at Sitka and Juneau in the following languages; Tlingit, Slovenian and Russian.”

Harlampy Sokolof married Mary Danilova Kobochef in Sitka on November 11, 1884. They had two children.

He lived in Sitka until 1880, Juneau for 30 years, Dyea for 1 year, Skagway for 6 months and Killisnoo for 6 years.

He worked as a Russian Missionary and interpreter. He was a member of the 1887 Pioneers.

Pioneers of Alaska Men’s Igloo 6 Biographical Sketch