Bethel, located along the Kuskokwim River in southwestern Alaska, serves as a hub for surrounding villages in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. Originally known as "Mumtrekhlogamute," which means "smokehouse people," Bethel started out as a trading post and fish processing center in the late 1800s. Historically, the area has been inhabited by Yup’ik people, who continue to practice subsistence activities like fishing and hunting. The region relies on salmon, making fishing a cornerstone of both the local economy and outdoor lifestyle. Bethel plays a vital role in the area and access is primarily by air or river. In the summer, residents travel by boat to stock up on essential supplies, while in the winter, they use snowmachines or trucks to navigate the ice road and visit the local AC store.
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English, Central Yup'ik