False Pass is indeed near a hoped-for passage between the Alaska Peninsula and the first of the Aleutian Islands, but the route has proven too shallow for larger vessels. The area was settled by a homesteader after the turn of the century and grew quickly with the establishment of a Peter Pan Seafoods cannery in 1917. The community is largely Aleut, populated by native families originally from Morzhovoi, Sanak Island, and Ikatan who came to work at the cannery. Fishing and fleet services occupy most residents. The town is located at the eastern end of Unimak Island, first of the Aleutians and largely encompassed by the Unimak Wilderness of the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge (see Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, chapter 11). The icy, 8,025-foot summit of Isanotski Peak is 15 air miles from town, while further along the ridge, Shishaldin Volcano tops out at 9,372 feet. These are by far the tallest peaks in the Aleutians. Though offering little in the way of support, False Pass is the best base for exploring the wilderness or attempting a summit. Consult the Izembek Refuge Manager for information.