Coffman Cove, AK | Coffman Cove Business Listings Source: Alaska Department of Community and Economic Development
Current Population: 200 (certified December, 2000, by DCED) Incorporation Type: 2nd Class City Borough Located In: Unorganized Taxes: Sales: None, Property: None, Special: None Location and Climate
Coffman Cove is on the northeast coast of Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, 73 miles northeast of Ketchikan. It lies at approximately 56d 01m N Latitude, 132d 50m W Longitude (Sec. 28, T068S, R082E, Copper River Meridian). Coffman Cove is located in the Ketchikan Recording District. The area encompasses 11.6 sq. miles of land and 3.6 sq. miles of water. The area is dominated by a cool maritime climate. Summer temperatures range from 46 to 70; winter temperatures range from 32 to 42. History, Culture and Demographics
The site was named in 1886 by Lt. Comdr. A.S. Snow, USN, for Lt. Dewitt Coffman, a member of his party. Coffman Cove was first settled as a logging camp in the 1950s, owned and operated by Mike and Leta Valentine. Land was made available for private ownership through selection under the Alaska Statehood Act. Coffman Cove's pioneer lifestyle and clean, safe environment were featured on ABC's "20/20" program in 1984, prompting a deluge of mail from persons around the country wanting to relocate. The city government was incorporated in 1989.
Alaska Natives represent 7% of the population. The city primarily serves as a base for loggers. The majority of houses are mobile homes. There is a general store, gift shop and a gas station.
During the April 1990 U.S. Census, there were 81 total housing units, and 8 of these were vacant. The official unemployment rate at that time was 14.7%, with 99 jobs estimated to be in the community and 29.8% of all adults not in the work force. The median household income was $44,063, and 4.7% of residents were living below the poverty level.
Facilities, Utilities, Schools and Health Care
Due to archaeological site discoveries, residents have relocated to three new subdivisions, on land previously owned by the University and DNR. Coffman Cove currently uses untreated surface water sources to supply the piped water system. However, major improvements are under construction. Funds have been provided to construct service for the Bowhead and Dog Creek subdivisions. The City burns refuse and hauls the ash to Thorne Bay, and bales non-combustibles.
Electricity is provided by Alaska Power & Telephone.
There is one school located in the community, attended by 31 students.
Auxiliary health care is provided by Coffman Cove Fire/EMS (329-2209/2213/2302) or Prince of Wales Island Area EMS (826-2367/3330); drive to Craig or flight to Ketchikan.
Economy and Transportation
Area logging for Ketchikan Pulp Co., a small lumber mill, logging support services, and the local school provide the majority of employment. Coffman Cove is one of the major log transfer sites on Prince of Wales Island. Logs are tied together and towed to trans-shipment points for export. Oyster farming also occurs in Coffman Cove. Six residents hold commercial fishing permits. The City is conducting a study of the feasibility of a marine commercial/industrial complex. Recreation includes hunting (bear and deer), fishing, hiking and boating.
The State Ferry landing at Hollis provides access to the Prince of Wales Island road system. A State-owned seaplane base is available, and Taquan and Ketchikan Air provide daily scheduled air service from Ketchikan. The nearest landing strip is in Klawock. A boat launch and dock are available. Freight arrives by cargo plane, barge, ship and by road from Craig.