Eklutna is the home to the oldest Russian Othodox Churches in North America. The Russians came over in number during the early 1800's and converted many of the Alaska natives. Many of the religious practices of the natives and the Russians blended. One of the most interesting practices is that of the "spirit house". When they died, they placed the remains in a box and buried them, but then built a small house above the remains so that the deceased would feel comfortable.

Note on the Russian Orthodox Cross: The diagnal at the bottom is supposed to signify the thieves on the right and left of Christ as he was crucified. The one on the left went to hell, thus the left side (from Jesus's perspective) is pointing down. The one on the right went to heaven. The top straight panel is used for a name plate.