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Nikolaesk Alaska Hosts Old Believers Despite Isolation
Nikolaesk Alaska, home to about 300 Old Believers descendants, lives as a peculiar U.S. enclave ruled by strict tradition. They arrived via Kennedy executive order in 1963 and settled after migratory moves from Siberia and Brazil. Residents shun outsiders, enforce strict discipline with flogging for lawbreakers, and ban radios and televisions while pursuing a quiet, isolated fishing-based life. Prokhor Martushev, village official, confirms their desire to be left alone.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Nikolaesk
Prokhor Martushev
Martushev
Russia
Siberia
Manchuria
Brazil
United States
Kennedy
Oregon
Alaska