The original name for the island in the Tlingit language is: Yeixhi (building), referring to it looking like something under construction when viewed from the waters around it.

[6] Duke Island is an important and ancient indigenous location, with numerous archaeological sites dating back at least several thousand years.

After extensive mineral exploration for anomalous copper, nickel, platinum, and palladium began in 2005 the Taantakwaan Tlingit, along with the Native Site Guardianship Council and the Ketchikan Indian Community (KIC) objected and began the process of designating the island, along with others nearby, a traditional cultural property (TCP).

The study concluded that the Duke Island Area is eligible to the National Register of Historic Places as a TCP.

On 9 June 2011 the State Historic Preservation Office concurred that the Duke Island Area is eligible under all criteria.