Virginia Abston was born Virginia Johnson in Karluk, Alaska, to Tom and Annie Johnson. Her father was from Sweden, and her mother was a Norell, also of Swedish descent. Virginia grew up at Park’s Cannery, where her parents worked, and she had to leave for school since there was no school in the area. She spent her childhood in various places for schooling, including Bainbridge Island and Homer. Virginia married and had children, and she later went to college when her son started kindergarten. She worked for the local tribe and Koniag, and she has been working for the Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA) since then. Virginia's family had a history of fishing and setnetting, and she was involved in these activities. She also worked at the Larsen Bay cannery, where she had to be cautious of bears while crossing the creek to work. Virginia's family had a tender named Little Star, and she recalls the tenders Beaver and Kathy Drabek. She also mentioned that the cabins used for fishing have improved over the years, with modern amenities like refrigerators and electricity. Virginia's family history is rooted in the west side of Kodiak Island, and she has a deep connection to the area. Her life has been closely tied to the fishing industry and the local community, and she has witnessed significant changes in the region over the years. Her experiences provide valuable insights into the history and culture of the west side of Kodiak Island.

Scope and Content Note
The oral history interview with Virginia Abston provides a comprehensive account of her personal experiences and family history, offering valuable insights into the history and culture of the west side of Kodiak Island. The interview covers a wide range of topics, including Virginia's family background, her upbringing at Park’s Cannery, her parents' work, and her own involvement in fishing and setnetting activities. Virginia also discusses her educational experiences, her marriage, and her professional career, providing a detailed account of her life trajectory. The interview delves into Virginia's family connections, including her Swedish heritage and the history of her grandparents, providing a rich historical context for her personal narrative. Additionally, Virginia shares her experiences working at the Larsen Bay cannery and her involvement in winter-watching, offering unique insights into the local fishing industry and the challenges faced by workers in the region Furthermore, Virginia reflects on the changes she has witnessed in the fishing industry and the local community over the years, highlighting the evolution of fishing practices, improvements in fishing cabins, and the impact of modern amenities on the industry. Her memories of specific locations, such as Chief Cove and Shelikof, contribute to a detailed geographical and historical understanding of the west side of Kodiak Island. Overall, the interview provides a multifaceted account of Virginia Abston's life, offering a rich tapestry of personal, historical, and cultural narratives that contribute to a deeper understanding of the west side of Kodiak Island and the broader context of Alaskan history.