Samuel R. Spriggs, along with his wife and infant son, served at the Pt. Barrow Presbyterian Mission from 1899-1908. When Rev. Spriggs first came to Barrow he taught school with M. Leander Stevenson, the first missionary in Barrow. He learned Inupiat quickly and was soon preaching in their language. He is fondly remembered among the locals for his ability to squat on the floor, eat and converse with Inupiaq men. The mission, located at the juncture of the Beaufort and Chukchi Sea was an important one for the Presbyterian Church. During the time of Spriggs' tenure Inupiat Eskimos lived a subsistence lifestyle and reindeer had only recently been introduced.
From the description of Reverend Samuel Spriggs photograph collection [graphic], 1899-1908. (Alaska State Library). WorldCat record id: 53834190
