The community was first documented in the 1890 U.S. Census, but little is known of its history. Much of the community was relocated to higher ground a few years ago when the rising level of Iliamna Lake threatened several of the community buildings.
Some residents travel to Bristol Bay area during the summer to fish commercially for salmon.
Many also leave the community to subsistence fish camps near the Gibralter River during the summer. Since most residents have little cash income, subsistence is vitally important to the community. Abundant salmon and trout from the nearby Gibralter River, and wild game are mainstays of the residents' diet. Modes of communication include radio, television, telephone, and regional newspapers. Charter air transportation is available to the 3,400-foot gravel runway by Lake Clark Air and Iliamna Air.