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First, Hans and Gerry Kirschner tried farming their Spenard property on McRae road… but they were not successful.Then, in 1951, they opened the Garden of Eatin’ and the rest is Anchorage history.It wasn’t much to look at. It was just an old Quonset Hut. But the food they served quickly became the talk of the town. And the Garden of Eatin’ was the place to go.Snow White Laundry and CleanersIn 1916, Yusuke “Harry” Kimura and his wife, Katsuyo, arrived at the tent city on Ship Creek that would become Anchorage.They took over a hand laundry business and changed the name to “H and K Hand Laundry”. There was no running water. Later, the Kimura’s opened their Snow White Laundry and Cleaners business.A Tent Business in Tent CityIn 1915, with most of the Railroad workers and others, living in tents, Ulysses Grant “UG” Crocker, decided to open a business that made and repaired tents. It was a perfect match.In addition, they also made and repaired awnings and sleeping bags.In the 1915 photo above is the Crocker’s first wood-frame store.Not long after arriving in tent city, Crocker opened their first store on 4th Avenue between H and I streets. When they first opened for business, they specialized in making mattresses.On 4th AvenueIn the 1929 photo above, notice the hanging sign over 4th Avenue.The sign reads “Empress”, for the Empress movie theatre on the left side of the street facing west.*This puts the U.G. Crocker store on the North west side of 4th and G streets.Yes, You can Share This EditionAnd when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they send you a year’s supply of your favorite ice cream… well, it could happen.Thanks for reading and listening to the Anchorage Memories Club! This post is public, so feel free to share it.The First Church in AnchorageThe first church in Anchorage was established in 1915.It would become Holy Family Cathedral at 800 5th Avenue.The First Police Car in AnchorageIt wasn’t much, but it was better than walking.In 1935, the Anchorage Police Department was still on foot. Occasionally, they borrowed citizen’s cars and even took taxis to fight crime.In the 1940s, the department purchased their first patrol car, a used Ford, for $63.75.First Telephone ExchangeHenry Emard brought the first telephone exchange to what would become Anchorage, in 1914. It was first used by the Alaska Railroad Commission.First Public LibraryIn 1922, Bolte’s Hardware store offered free space for the Anchorage Public Library.While the Anchorage Memories Club does not know where Bolte’s was located, it is likely that it was on 4th Avenue.First Outside Performing ArtistIn October 1938, Lorene Harrison, (the Hat Box), and the Presbyterian Church Choir, brought the first artist from outside of Alaska, to the town of Anchorage to perform.The artist was Soprano singer Margaret Bowen.BONUSYou can learn more about Lorene Harrison right hereAnchorage’s First NeighborhoodGovernment Hill, 1917Earlier PioneersA man named Thomas Jeter built a cabin on a lake that became known as Jeter Lake (now Spenard Lake). But Jeter was in an area that was not approved for homesteading and had to leave.In around 1911 or 1912, it is thought that Jeter may have moved from his Jeter Lake cabin and built a new one on what is now Government Hill.In 1915, as the grid for downtown Anchorage was being laid out and the first lots were being auctioned off, Anchorage’s first neighborhood, Government Hill, was being built while railroad workers were still living in tents along Ship Creek.From Our North Stars (that’s you)Tom sent us this memory:“I love the Anchorage Memories Club, and remembering the good times in Anchorage in the 1970s when I was a teen. Your story about Stewart's Photo rekindled memories of spending a lot of time in that store. During the Fur Rondy dog races, we'd stop in to buy more film (we took plenty of photos back then!), warm up, look at some jade, and dream about buying fancier cameras. Thanks for doing what you do to remind us of Anchorage history.”Charles had this comment:“I was a Stewart's Photo employee in periods of the 60s, 70s and 80s. You didn't mention their jade mine in Northwest Alaska. They sold jade from the store until Oro's passing.”Don and Maurine remember the Fur Rendezvous:“Thanks Mike and Mary for refreshing our Rondy memories. Yes, I marched and played trombone in the West High band, and the brass got pretty cold.”Connect with Mike and MaryDid you enjoy reading this edition of your Anchorage Memories Club? We did.It’s always interesting when you discover something new about Anchorage.Do you have a comment? You can reach us by replying to this email. Or you can Contact Us to say, “I remember using Snow White Laundry and Cleaners.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAnchorage Memories Club

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The Old Federal Building was Completed in 1941You saw this historic building every time you went to see a movie at the 4th Avenue Theatre or the Empress Theatre in downtown Anchorage.Located right across the street from the 4th Avenue Theater, the old Federal Building sits on the site originally designated in 1915 for the Federal Reserve Bank.The first building on the site was a Post Office, then a U.S. Marshall’s office and a Territorial jail.The Federal Building was constructed in stages from 1939 to 1941.The 49th StarTo celebrate Alaska becoming the 49th state in the union on January 3, 1959, a huge 48-star flag was displayed on the wall of the Federal Building facing 4th Avenue (seen above).Then, that year’s Fur Rendezvous Queen was hoisted on the ladder of a fire truck, so she could pin a special “49th” star on the flag to represent Alaska.Look closely at the picture above, and you can see the special star on the flag.In 1978, the old Federal Building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.BONUSClick on the following link:Read more about The Old Federal Building and discover.What Downtown Business Could the following Be?Built in the 1920s, this building was once home to a furniture store, and even a Funeral Parlor before it became home to a very successful and iconic downtown business.That’s right.In 1957, Club Paris opened in that 1920s building at 417 5th Avenue.And as many people in Anchorage know, and many visitors too, Club Paris is now home to what many say are the best steaks in town.Yes, You Can Share This EditionYour friends and family will love seeing this fun edition of the Anchorage Memories Club… And they will be so happy you shared this with them, that they will give you a certificate for a free lifetime supply of Club Paris steaks… well, it could happen.Thanks for reading and listening to the Anchorage Memories Club! This post is public, so feel free to share it.In the photo above are Oro and Ivan StewartNow let’s talk about Stewart’s Photo Shop, at 531 West 4th AvenueDid you know that Stewart’s is located in one of Anchorage’s oldest buildings?It was originally the Ship Creek Meat Market.Ivan and Ora Stewart (pictured above) began Stewart’s Photo in 1942. But it wasn’t in Anchorage. It was located in Kodiak, Alaska.A year later, the husband and wife team brought their business to Anchorage.If you enjoyed taking pictures, Stewart’s Photo Shop was the place to go. Ivan and Ora were friendly and knew photography.Mike of Anchorage Memories loved going into Stewart’s and used to buy those short 8mm versions of Hollywood movies and cartoons that they carried.What are your memories of Stewart’s Photo Shop?BONUSClick on the following link:Take a look at Stewart’s Photo Shop and scroll down the page to see old photos.Remember Star the Reindeer?In the photo above is a later version of Star the reindeer.Ivan and Ora brought Star to Anchorage in 1962.The female reindeer was given the name “Star” because of a white fur starburst between her eyes.You could sometimes see Star tethered to a parking meter right out in front of Stewart’s, so passers-by and tourists could take pictures with Star.The original Star lived to be 23 years old. In the world of reindeer, that’s about 15 years longer than the average life span. There have since been a number of “Star” reindeer.Ora Stewart passed away in 1986 and left Albert Whitehead in charge of Star.Kimball’s Dry Goods, 500 and 504 West 5th AvenueThink about this:Kimball’s is the only commercial building at its original location since the founding of Anchorage.Irving J. Kimball and his wife Della first came to Anchorage during its “Tent City” days in 1915.During the Anchorage town site auction, held on July 10, 1915, Irving Kimball purchased Lot 1, Block 51 (500 and 504 West Fifth Street) for 500 dollars. He then built Kimball’s Dry Goods.The store opened in November 1915 and sold general merchandise, hardware, and groceries.Following the passing of Irving and Della, their daughter, Decema Kimball Andresen Slawson operated the store until she passed away in 2002.In the later years, the store sold sewing supplies to the Bush communities by mail order. That service represented about half of the Kimball Dry Goods business at that time.In all, Kimball’s Dry Goods was in business for 87 years.Have you ever shopped or visited Kimball’s?From Our North Stars (that’s you)At the Anchorage Memories Club, we love to hear from our members.Vivien sent this:“My sister sent me the Anchorage Memories Club a few weeks ago.And I want to thank you for the connection to my past. I grew up in Anchorage and left for college in 1967. Now, my sister lives in Los Angeles and I live in Israel.My last visit to Anchorage was for a West high school class reunion over 20 years ago.So thanks for putting all this together. Shalom.”Thank you so much for reaching out to us here at the Anchorage Memories Club, Vivien, and for sharing at least a little of your story. Our best to you and your sister.Connect with Mike and MaryIt's a pleasure to hear from people all over the world who are now reading and listening to the Anchorage Memories ClubDo you have a comment, you can reach us by replying to this email. Or, do you want to say “hello Mike and Mary”?It’s super easy to contact us.Go to Contact Us and say “hey” right now.Until next timeMike & MaryAnchorage Memories Club

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What’s a Mall?When Mike of the Anchorage Memories Club was 15 years old, his family made a trip from Anchorage to San Antonio, Texas to visit relatives. One day, Mike’s aunt said, “how would y'all (that’s Texan for “you all”) like to go to the mall?”Almost immediately, a puzzled Mike asked, “what’s a mall?” Being raised in Anchorage back in the day, there was no mall.Nothing There But Acres of Soggy LandFor years, there was nothing at Northern Lights Boulevard and the New Seward Highway in Anchorage, Alaska but some scraggly trees and soggy land. But a man named Larry Carr would change all of that.Pictured above is the Sear MallWe’re getting ahead of our story, by showing you the Sears Mall right now. But what the hey. The Sears Mall in Anchorage is the subject of this wonderful memory. BONUS (This One’s a “Blast from the Past”)On the other side of the street where the mall would be built on Northern Lights Boulevard and the New Seward Highway was the Bun Drive-In. On the roof of the Bun, was the small radio studio where the Coke Show radio program with Ron Moore was broadcast each evening. Take a look at A Fascinating Treasure Chest of Coke Show Radio Memories and remember.Larry Carr Comes to AnchoragePictured above is Larry CarrIn 1947, Larry Carr, the man who would build Anchorage’s first mall, arrived in Anchorage.His first day job was working for the Alaska Railroad. But in the evening he worked at a grocery store called Thrifty Mart. His time there, paved the way for what was yet to come.Carr’s on 13th and GambellLater, in 1950, at age 21, Larry Carr found an old Quonset Hut at 13th and Gambell, and he decided to go into the grocery business with his brother, Bernard Joseph Carr.But the Quonset Hut turned out to be a challenge.The walls of the Quonset Hut were so thin, that one winter morning they found everything in the store had frozen overnight. What’s a Quonset Hut, You AskPhoto courtesy of John ParkerIn the 1949 picture above, this Quonset Hut was the first building on the corner of Spenard Road and Fireweed. It was the Spenard Post Office and Parker’s Store.Now imagine this Quonset Hut as Larry Carr’s first Anchorage grocery store.More Carr’s Grocery Store Locations FollowedEven with all the challenges, including a store full of frozen food on a cold Alaska winter morning, the first Carrs food store was a success. So they opened more locations.Yes, You Can Share This EditionAre your friends and family curious about a far off place called Anchorage, Alaska?You’ll be a superhero, when you share this edition of the Anchorage Memories Club. They will be so happy, they will send you on a two-week vacation to the world’s most beautiful beach. Trunk Bay on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Well, it could happen.Thanks for reading and listening to the Anchorage Memories Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.A 17.6 Acre Site Just 1.5 Miles from Downtown AnchorageAnchorage was growing up, and Larry Carr had a vision.He was going to build the first Mall in Anchorage. And it was exciting. On January 31, 1968, the Sears Mall, the first ever in Anchorage, opened its doors.Inside, the towns folk of Anchorage discovered a comfortable atmosphere and what was built to resemble a downtown sidewalk, with shops on either side.Do you remember?When the mall first opened, it featured Carr’s Quality Foodcenter as an anchor store on one end, with Sears on the other.Mall stores included, Russell Stover Candies, a Wells Fargo Bank, Sheffield Cafeteria and Pub, and a Ben Franklin Variety Store. There was also Andy’s Carmel Corn (a favorite of our family), Grandma’s Closet, the Book Cache, and Sears had a café. Some of these might have been added later.In addition, there was a 10 cent mechanical horsey ride for kids.And the indoor setting was just perfect for shoppers from all over Alaska, especially during those long, cold winters.Pictured above is the Book Cache in the Sears Mall in Anchorage.What are your memories of the Sears Mall? What were your favorite stores and restaurants in the Sears mall?BONUSYou can read more about Larry Carr and the History of Carr-Gottstein Foods right now.Just for FunPhoto above by Jim ZollerDo you remember?This “Around the World” amphibian visited Anchorage in 1957.Do you have pictures of Anchorage that you would like to share?Did you know that you can also join our free, Alaska Stories and enjoy Alaska?From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our look at Anchorage, Alaska’s World Famous, Pioneering, Fur Rendezvous Winter Carnival.Teresa is happy:“I would like to say, THANK YOU for creating the Anchorage Memories Club. I was born and raised in Anchorage, and the Anchorage Memories Club brings such joy to my soul! I just had to say, THANK YOU to you both!”A Note from Mike and Mary:Teresa - Thank you for your kind words. You are what the Anchorage Memories Club is all about.Nelson made this comment:“Thank you for keeping these memories alive!Our family was the first Colombian family to reside in Anchorage.”Loren remembers:“I came to Alaska in 1956, in the back of a “51” chevy from Illinois, with two brothers and a sister. 12 days on the road, and numerous flat tires. Fireweed Lane was the city limits then. You could go downtown, and you knew just about everybody you saw.”Mona has a question:“I don't remember the Fur Rendezvous being called Rondy or Fur Rondy. I only remember hearing about the Fur Rendezvous. Is “Rondy” a new thing? I lived in Anchorage from 1962 to 1974.”Connect with Mike and MaryWere you in Anchorage before the Sears Mall? Were you there when they first opened the Sears Mall? What were your favorite stores?Ok, Mike and Mary had three favorites. Andie’s Carmel Corn, Grandma’s Closet and the Sears Mall Book Cache.Do you have a comment? We love hearing from our North Stars (that’s you). You can reach us by replying to this email. Or, you can Contact Us to say, “The Sears Mall in Anchorage, Alaska was a great place to hang out.”Until next timeMike and MaryAnchorage Memories ClubJoin for FREE, and enjoy the memories of two Alaskans.Anchorage Memories Club is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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Hello, Mike and Mary here. Thank you for letting us into your inbox. If you are a new subscriber, welcome!Every issue of the Anchorage Memories Club is a treasure chest of memories that will bring back your long forgotten memories.For access to the Alaska Library of stories, e-books and audio stories, you’ll need to become a Paid Subscriber.Anchorage Memories Club is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.The town of Anchorage had a population of about 3,000 souls in the mid-1930s. The town was spread out between Ship Creek and the Park Strip.Then a man named, Vern Johnson had an idea. What if there was a 3-day winter festival? He reasoned that It might just be a great cure for the long winter and Cabin Fever.February 15–17, 1936The town of Anchorage came out to enjoy the “Winter Sports Carnival”.There was hockey, boxing, basketball, skiing, and a children’s sled dog race down 4th Avenue.The first Winter Sports Carnival also included a bonfire and a torchlight parade.1937Eileen Bagoy (the daughter of the owners of “Flowers by Bagoy”) was crowned the first-ever Fur Rendezvous Queen by the Anchorage Women’s Club.The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce added a costumed Mardi Gras type carnival night and a street parade celebrating Washington’s birthday.1938In 1938, the Winter Sports Carnival was renamed the Fur Rendezvous to also bring fur traders and trappers to town.1939 Rondy PinsRondy Pins (shown above on these Rondy “Keystone Cops”) were first created and used as a fundraiser for the Fur Rendezvous, beginning in 1939.BONUSRemember the Rondy “Keystone Cops”? Here’s a fun story about what happened if you were not wearing a Rondy Pin.Take a look at My Mom Got Put in the Rondy Jail and enjoy.Yes, You Can Share This EditionYour friends and family will get “Rondy Fever” when they see all the fun that Anchorage’s Fur Rendezvous brings every year. So share the fun.Thanks for reading the Anchorage Memories Club! This post is public, so feel free to share it.1946In 1946, 3 mushers competed in the first Alaska Championship Sled Dog Races at the Park Strip. The winner was Earl Norris (pictured above).1950The Blanket Toss was added in 1950. Are you in this crowd? The year of this photo isn’t known.Native Alaskans from Nome and Diomede Islands came to Anchorage to demonstrate the Blanket Toss. And judging by the crowd in the picture above, it was a hit.19536 women competed in the first Women’s Alaska Championship Sled Dog Race.1958Then in 1958, a curling tournament was played on 4th Avenue. Always fun to watch.1960The photo above is 1968Golden Wheel Amusements added Carnival rides to the Fur Rendezvous in 1960.Hardy Alaska souls don’t mind braving freezing temperatures for a ride on the Ferris Wheel, or to snack on a corn dog.What was your favorite Rondy Carnival ride? In 1968, the carnival was located overlooking the mouth of Ship Creek, where Anchorage got its start as a tent city back in 1915.Your Favorite Rondy Food TreatsHaving all that Rondy fun made you good and hungry for a treat.Mary, of Anchorage Memories, always looked forward to her special Fur Rendezvous snack.BONUSTake a look at Mary’s story about Fur Rondy Corn Dogs and enjoy.Fur Rendezvous Parade MemoriesThe photo above is 1965 (ish). From the Brad Smith CollectionYes, you were cold, but you didn’t care. The Fur Rondy parade was all for fun as it made its way down 4th Avenue to the delight of all.Did You March in the Rondy Parade?It was cold, but it was fun, and the bands from Anchorage schools also participated.Mary of Anchorage Memories marched in the parade as part of the Anchorage Clown Club.BONUSMike, of Anchorage memories, played trumpet in the East High band. Marching on slippery ice… or being behind horses, had its special challenges.Take a look at Marching in the Fur Rondy Parade and enjoy.If you’re new to the Anchorage Memories Club, you’ll also love Alaska Stories.Take a look at our Alaska Stories email delivered publication as well.Did You Know?Because of World War II, the Fur Rendezvous was cancelled from 1942 to 1945.So, a very community minded lady named Lorene Harrison (the owner of the Hat Box), put together a celebration called “Bonanza Days” which was presented at the log cabin USO building to a standing-room-only crowd. Do You Remember Some of These Folks?When You were home, (or peeking at a TV in a downtown store window) sipping a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, and watching the World Championship Sled Dog Races, the folks at KENI-TV (now KTUU) and KENI radio were braving the cold to bring you all the Rondy fun.Left to right is:Al Bramstedt, news anchor Ty Clark, camera operator Jim Balog, Bill Stewart and your Master of Ceremonies Orville Lake.Do You Remember This Theme Song?It was played on KENI-TV channel 2 at the beginning and end of their Fur Rendezvous TV coverage.Click on the following link to here De Selvera’s “Sleigh-Ride in Alaska” from 1959.Contact Mike and MaryGreat memories!Do you have a comment, or just want to use the word “mush”? You can easily contact us by replying to this email, or you can Contact Us to say “mush”.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAnchorage Memories ClubJoin for FREE, and enjoy the memories of two Alaskans.Anchorage Memories Club is a reader-supported publication. 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In the photo above is Russel Hyde MerrillOur story begins in Anchorage in 1923.Because of a thick forest on the south side of Anchorage, Alaska, there was a concern that if a fire started in the woods, the new town would be destroyed.With that in mind, Arthur W. Shonbeck organized the entire town of Anchorage to create a fire break by clearing a large strip of land between what is now 9th and 10th avenue. But as the new town grew, that cleared land became a home for other things.From Fire Break to Golf CourseThe photo above shows golfers on the firebreak in Anchorage, AlaskaOnce tree stumps and other obstacles could be removed, a golf course was created on the fire break.But wait -Except for dog sleds, it was very difficult to get in or out of most places in Alaska. So, adventurous, pioneer aviators began flying into remote areas of the Alaska “bush”. Those early aviators were soon known as “bush pilots”.They Needed a Place to LandAnchorage, and other parts of Alaska were beginning to use aircraft more and more. However, conditions for taking off and landing were primitive and dangerous. So it was decided that the new golf course in Anchorage would also make a great landing strip for bush pilots.By the way, once planes began landing and taking off on their new airfield, golfers were instructed to give planes the right of way. Ya think?Eventually, the presence of aircraft made it obvious that the golf course had to go.In the photo above is the Anchorage airstrip used by early pilots. This field later became Delaney Park, the largest community park in Anchorage.Then, in 1926, Arthur Shonbeck founded Anchorage Air Transport, Anchorage’s first airline.To start his service, Shonbeck hired a pilot from the lower 48 named Russel Hyde Merrill.Earlier, on August 20, 1925, Russel Merrill and his aviation partner Roy Davis had become the first to fly an airplane to Anchorage.Anchorage Air Transport started with two planes named Anchorage No. 1 and Anchorage No. 2.In 1927, Anchorage Air Transport built the first airplane hangar in Anchorage.Merrill’s Life Saving Flight: It’s What Bush Pilots DoIn 1927, Merrill received a Signal Corp radio message.An airlift was urgently needed to transport a critically wounded school teacher in Ninilchick who was near death.It was nighttime when his plane returned to Anchorage. And with his patient onboard, Merrill had to continue circling the new airfield as he tried to find where to land.The citizens of Anchorage realized what was happening and quickly came to the rescue.They set bonfires around the field and used automobile headlights to help guide Merrill’s landing. The results became the first night landing in Anchorage.The teacher recovered.He Transported Many FursThe photo above shows Russel Merrill with a load of furs.By 1929, Merrill was flying 10 to 12 hours a day.Russel Hyde MerrillA true aviation pioneer and Alaska bush pilot, Merrill made the first flight across the Gulf of Alaska in a Curtiss F Flying Boat.He was also the first pilot to cross the Alaska Range.And Merrill survived many forced landings and crashes.The Last FlightOn September 16, 1929, Russel Merrill set out for Bear Creek at Nyac, near Bethel.Merrill was not seen again.While the crash site was never found, a piece of airplane fabric washed up on a beach at Tyonek, on the west side of Cook Inlet. The fabric was identified by Alonzo Cope, the mechanic who had worked on Merrill’s plane.Yes, You Can Share This EditionDid you know that you can share this edition of Alaska Stories with your friends and family?And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will send you on a first class trip around the world. You’ll follow the famed route of Phileas Fogg and his companion Passpartout in Jules Verne’s 1872 novel, “Around the World in 80 Days”… well, it could happen.Just click on the following link:Thanks for reading Alaska Stories. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Anchorage was GrowingThe town was growing to the south, which meant that it was becoming too dangerous to continue having planes flying in and out of the fire break. So a new airport was needed.Aviation FieldIn the photo above is the first dedicated airport in AnchorageLocated just outside of Anchorage. The new airport, opened in August 1929, and was named Aviation Field.Merrill FieldIn 1930, the Anchorage Women’s Club petitioned to change the name of Aviation Field to Merrill Field.The TowerOn April 2, 1930, Merrill Field was established.A 52 foot tall steel framed tower topped by a rotating aerodrome beacon was erected next to the runway.Memorial PlaqueAlso in 1930, the Anchorage Women’s Club raised funds for a memorial plaque, honoring Russel Hyde Merrill.The date at the bottom of the plaque refers to the day of his last flight.The plaque is now located in the Merrill Field airport control tower.Recognized WorldwideAnchorage’s Merrill Field quickly became the aviation center for Alaska and one of the busiest aviation facilities in the entire world.There is Much More to the StoryWhile Russel Merrill wasn’t in Anchorage for many years, he left an incredible legacy that lives today in Alaska aviation history and Merrill Field.BONUSYou can learn more about Russel Hyde Merrill and his love of aviation.What Became of the Fire Break?The photo above shows the park on a summer dayThe firebreak, first created in 1923, is now called the Delaney Park Strip. Delaney Park, was named after Anchorage, Alaska Mayor, James Delaney, who served from 1929 to 1932.At either 11 or 14 blocks long, it’s the largest city park in Anchorage. There is no longer a golf course in the park, and planes no longer land there.From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our Alaska State Fair edition.Randall has this memory:“I have many memories of the Knik Bridge waiting our turn to cross the Knik hoping the break-up of Lake George wouldn't trap us on the north side of the bridge. Great memories of the ditches filled to overflowing with bright red salmon during spawning season. The salmon used the ditch diversions to continue their run.”The photo above is courtesy of George“There was a Chugiak fair in 1957 that had a stuffed moose you could sit on and have your picture taken.”Connect with Mike and Mary of Alaska StoriesCan you imagine the many adventures of those early Anchorage aviators?Mike and Mary hope you enjoyed this look at the legendary Anchorage pilot, Russel Merrill.Do you have a comment? Just reply to this email. Or you can Contact Us to tell us all about how you, “flew into (*or out of) Merrill Field”.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

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It all began in the summer of 1900.“Tarantula” Jack Smith and Clarence Warner were prospecting along the east edge of the Kennicott Glacier. They thought the large green patches on the mountain in front of them were grass. But it was too high up the mountain for grass.So the two decided to climb the mountain. Up close, they discovered the green cliffs were, actually exposed copper.They took samples of what would become known as the “Bonanza Mine Outcrop”. Those samples turned out to be 70 percent pure Chalcocite, one of the richest copper deposits ever found.Where?The Kennecott Mines are located in the Copper River area, northeast of Valdez in what is now the Wrangell, St. Elias National Park and Reserve.A Clerical TypoThe Kennecott Mines were named after Kennicott Glacier.However, as things sometimes happen, a clerical error resulted in the use of an “e” where the “i” was supposed to be. And that’s the reason for the difference in the spelling of the names.How to Bring Out the Ore?In the years that followed, a railroad was constructed to bring out the copper.Meanwhile, a man named Stephen Birch was in Kennecott to start developing the mine claims. But how was he going to get the ore to market before the railroad was a reality?Birch actually decided to bring an entire steamship over the mountains from the port of Valdez. How did he do that? One piece at a time, and he put them together on the Copper River.Dog Sleds and HorsesBirch also used dog sleds and horses to haul up the mining equipment he needed to get the mining operation up and running.You Can Share This EditionDo your friends and family know about Alaska’s Kennecott Mines?You can easily share this story… but be careful because they might want to become Alaska prospectors. But if they do, be sure you get a cut of whatever they find.Just click on the following link:Thanks for reading Alaska Stories. This post is public, so feel free to share it.11 Years LaterThe photo above shows two miners who were working in one of the mines.When Kennecott was up and running, there were about 600 men, often working 7 days a week in the mines and mill town.11 years after the two prospectors first discovered the rich copper cliffs, the first train left Kennecott. It was filled with 250,000 dollars worth of copper.In the photo above, to the left is the Hospital. It was the only whitewashed building in the entire complex.Five MinesThe Kennecott Mines included the Bonanza, Jumbo, Mother Lode, Erie, and Glacier.1916 was the peak year for production in the mines, when the mines yielded 32.4 million dollars worth of ore.Altogether, the mines took out around 200 million dollars in ore.Enjoy this video of the Kennecott Mines1938 – the Last TrainBy 1938, the mines had played out and the last trainload of ore chugged away.The Kennecott Mines became a ghost town.1939 to the Mid-1950sThe only people living in the Kennecott Mine buildings from 1939 to the mid-1950s was a family of 3, who served as watchmen.New LifeIn the 1980s, the Kennecott Mines became a popular destination for tourists.And in 1986, the area was designated a National Historic Landmark.BONUSDiscover the whole Kennecott Mines Story and enjoy.From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our look at the Hillside StarRozanne had this to say:“Thank you so much.I spent most of my years living at Sand Lake, moving to "homestead" in the 50's. One day, there was a star, from then on, I looked for her each season. Being born here before Statehood, I am privileged to experience a wonderful place to grow up, and return to.”Michael offered this comment:“Thank you for sharing the history of the Star... I didn't know that!”Connect with Mike and MaryIt’s time to put away your pick and shovel.We know… you were just one scoop away from finding the Mother lode.Did you enjoy learning about Alaska’s Kennecott Copper Mines?We love to hear from our North Stars (that’s you). Do you have a comment? Just reply to this email. Or you can Contact Us to say, “I’ve been to the Kennecott Mines”.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

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In the photo above is the old Bettles Trading Post on the Koyukuk riverDriven by gold fever, you’re constantly looking for the next big strike.The Klondike gave up a lot of gold, but quickly became played out. So many stampeders were looking for another strike to cool their fever. They found one.A man named Johnny Folger discovered gold near the middle fork of the Koyukuk River in 1893. When word got out, around 2,000 gold seekers left the Klondike, and headed near the Arctic Circle in Alaska. The Koyukuk Gold Rush of 1902 was on.It was Rough and TumbleBut the Cheechakos from places like New York, Michigan and Illinois, were not prepared for the hardships they encountered on the Koyukuk River. Pictured above is Gordon C. Bettles in 1898 from the Bettles Family Collection“My father was in practically every stampede in Alaska, and he walked to most of them, a pack on his back and a rifle in his hand.”—Mr. Bettles' daughter Marguerite Bettles GolderGordon Bettles was a fur trader, shopkeeper, prospector, and newspaperman.Bettles was in the Klondike, looking for gold, when he heard about the strike on the Koyukuk River. Because of the strike, Gordon Bettles left the Klondike and ordered 20 tons of supplies and formed, G.C. Bettles & Co. His newspaper advertising motto was, “From Pickaxe to a Candle”.On the Koyukuk River, he established the outpost, or “Bean Shop” (a store) of Bergman and another store farther north that he named Bettles. Along the way, Gordon Bettles became known as a kind man who would “grubstake” a miner in need with food and supplies.Yes, You can Share this EditionImagine how happy your friends and family will be when they get to discover Bettles, Alaska because you were thoughtful enough to share this with them. You’ll be their hero.Click on the following link:Thanks for reading Alaska Stories. This post is public, so feel free to share it.By 1899, Gold Fever in the Area had FadedIn the photo above are the first buildings in Bettles, in 1900By 1901, the tiny outpost of Bettles had a post office and the trading post was still doing business with the remaining local miners. The Post Office later closed in 1956.Gordon Bettles passed away on May 18, 1945, in Seattle, Washington.BONUSGet to know Gordon Bettles: Koyukuk Pioneer and discover.So, Where is Bettles Today?In the photo above is the new Bettles on the right, with Evansville on the left. All on the banks of the Koyukuk River.The residents of the original Bettles have moved the community about five miles east to Evansville because the military had left an abandoned airfield at that location.The original, “Old” Bettles became a ghost town. The “New” Bettles was incorporated in 1985.The new Bettles is located on the Koyukuk River, 20 miles south of the Arctic National Park Reserve. It’s on the Dalton Highway as a winter only ice road that crosses the Jim River. Bettles is 35 miles north of the Arctic Circle, just south of the Brooks Range.BONUSEnjoy this video about Old BettlesAlaska Short StoriesFrom the “Tsunami” story:“We were near the nonexistent entrance of the boat harbor trying to lasso another boat when the northeastern wave hit us and drove us sideways into the southwestern wave, and the combination of the two forces generated a giant whirlpool.We were now going backwards with the main engine in full forward position in this swirling vortex with about a ten-degree list. The skipper told me to go down and drive that wedge back into the throttle, which I did in record time. The skipper had the wheel hard over to no avail.There was a red house on the hill just north of the city dock that had been washed from its foundation and was floating along with all the other flotsam, only this house had somehow managed to enter the swirling vortex inside the Fortress.It started to break up and disappeared right before our eyes. We could look right down into this black hole.”Read the 1964 Alaska Earthquake Tsunami short storyConnect with Mike and MaryThis Alaska Stories look at Gordon C. Bettles, and Bettles, Alaska, was a surprising look at the history of Alaska, and the beginning of a town.Do you have a comment about this story? Just reply to this email. Or you can Contact Us to say, “I’ve been to Bettles”. Mike and Mary love to hear from our North Stars (that’s you).Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

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Alaska’s mountains are tall, commanding, and majestic.But mount Gordon Lyon in the Chugach mountains, overlooking Alaska’s largest city, has become special to the citizens of Anchorage.Illuminated during those long winter nights, the “Site Summit Star” was a gift to Anchorage from the soldiers at Site Summit.Nike Site SummitThe U.S. Army established a Nike Hercules missile installation on Mount Gordon Lyon in 1958 to help protect the U.S. during the Cold War.Site Summit in ActionIn the photo above, the Site Summit Army post, tests a Nike-Hercules missileMike of Alaska Stories was a student at Clark Junior High in Anchorage. One day, the students were escorted to the front of the school to watch the first test launch of a Nike-Hercules missile from Site Summit. Like the picture above, it was an impressive site.How the Gift of the Star came AboutIn 1958, Battery Commander, Captain Douglas Evert, had an idea.At nearly 4,000 feet up the mountain, Evert wanted to set up a 15 foot illuminated star on the Site Summit gate house as a holiday symbol that would be seen and enjoyed by all of Anchorage.But the first star was too small.So, a 117-foot star replaced the original in 1960.Oops!An avalanche destroyed the star in 1989.Later, the damaged star was replaced by a 300-foot wide star.Yes, You Can Share This EditionYour friends and family will be so happy when you share this edition of Alaska Stories with them. You might even get a special Christmas gift… well, it could happen.Just click on the following link:Thanks for reading Alaska Stories. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Now That’s a Lot of BulbsPhoto by Crystal A. Jenkins, US Air ForceCan you guess? How many bulbs do you think it used to take to light up a 300-foot star?The Answer is:There were around 350 bulbs that require year round maintenance. Yes, those light sockets froze and the movement of snow caused damage as well.The Site Summit Star TodayModern technology has caught up with the star.Light bulbs have been replaced with LED lights.The star is 300 feet wide. Compare that to the length of a football field, which is 360 feet.When Can You See the Star?According to a Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson publication, the star is lit every year on Thanksgiving and remains on until the last Iditarod dog sled musher crosses the finish line in Nome – sometime in March.The Beauty of the StarWater color courtesy of Alaskan artist Cindy PendletonSit back and enjoy the beautiful vision of the Site Summit Star that is captured so well by Alaskan artist, Cindy Pendleton in the water color image above. Our thanks to Cindy for sharing her art with Alaska Stories.BONUSTo learn more, visit Friends of Site Summit and discover.Visit Anchorage Memories.comYou’ll discover a treasure chest of memories, including stories, pictures, and videos.Take a look at Anchorage Memories and enjoy.Connect with Mike and MaryThis is one of those great Alaska Stories that warm your heart.If you live in Anchorage, or visited during the holidays, what was your reaction, the first time you saw the Site Summit Star?Send us your comment by replying to this email, or you can Contact Us right now to say, “I love the Site Summit Star”. Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

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Meet Elbridge Truman “E.T.” Barnette, (1863–1933)The man who founded Fairbanks.He was a riverboat captain, a banker, and a swindler.Gold FeverWhen the steamship Portland arrived at the West Coast with its one ton of gold from the Alaska gold strike, like many others, E.T. Barnett came down with a bad case of gold fever.He decided to take the “Rich Man’s Route” to avoid Skagway and the passes. He boarded the ocean steamer, Cleveland in Seattle to travel to St. Michael, where he had booked a river steamer to Dawson City.But the Cleveland ran into fog, bad weather, and had a fire in the hold compartment. A disease also broke out among the passengers. Eventually, the steamer made it to St. Michael, where Barnette discovered that his river steamer to Dawson had already left.So Barnette and 60 other passengers from the Cleveland purchased their own river steamer, the St. Michael, to take them to Dawson.More TroubleOn their way to Dawson, the St. Michael became frozen in the river at Circle City.But Barnette was determined to get to the Klondike. So, he bought a fast dog team to take him to Dawson.Once he was there, Barnette discovered that every creek on the Klondike river had already been claimed.E.T. Barnette was forced to take a job to earn enough money to go back home.Yes, You Can Share ThisDid you know that you can easily share this edition of the Alaska Stories podcast with your friends and family?And when you do, they will be so happy that they will send you on an all-expense trip to Grace Bay Beach in the Turks and Caicos Islands, rated #1 in 2022 according to TripAdvisor users… well, it could happen.To share this, click on the following link.Thanks for reading Alaska Stories. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Try, Try AgainBy the early 1900s, Barnette had enough money and decided to go back to Alaska, where this time he would set up a Trading Post along a new Railroad Route at Tannana Crossing.In St. Michael once again, along with 130 tons of freight to start his Trading Post, he bought the river steamer, Arctic Boy.Unfortunately, the Arctic Boy struck a rock and sank in St. Michael harbor.So Barnette convinced Captain Charles Adams of the steamer Lavelle Young, to take him, his wife Isabelle, his employees and freight to Tannana Crossing.The Captain agreed, with one important contractual agreement.Barnette, his wife, employees, and freight would be put ashore at the “farthest point” the boat was able to reach… regardless of where that was.Low WaterEventually, as they headed up the Tannana River, they ran into low water. But Barnett convinced Adams to head for the Chena River.But, as they headed up the Chena, they ran into low water once again.This time, Barnette and Captain Adams had an argument that ended with Barnette, his wife, several employees and 130 tons of freight being put off the steamer and on to the banks of the Chena River.As Captain Adams and his steam boat headed back down the Chena, Isabelle Barnette stood on the riverbank and cried.Photo above is the first Trading Post camp on the Chena River in 1903E.T. Barnette established his trading post.Some time later, in a conversation with Judge James Wickersham, the Judge convinced Barnette to name his trading post after U.S. Senator Charles W. Fairbanks of Indiana.Yes, Fairbanks was founded because of a series of mishaps and was named following a conversation with a Judge.BONUSTo learn more, and how a swindle nearly caused a hanging, take a look at:Fairbanks, Alaska and discover.From our North Stars (that’s you)From “This is the Remarkable Z.J. Loussac” editionBearpawz made this observation:“Sounds like ZJ Loissac was a really good guy.. I do like the design of the midtown library. The old city hall building downtown is supposed to turn into a new branch eventually, but I'm not sure what the timeline on that is.”Wandal remembers:“This “Loussac Edition” brought back many fond memories. My parents arrived in Anchorage with me and my sister in 1952 when I was 6 years old and not much of a reader. Then I discovered the Loussac Library and read Andre Norton’s “Starman’s Son”. From then on, there was no looking back and the library became my favorite hangout. By late grade school I was checking out 12 books per week (the limit) and in Jr High (O D Clark) made a book report on The World Book Encyclopedia. Must be inheritable as my kids are now ‘addicted to books’. Thanks you ZJ”And Irene said this:“I loved that library. In 1955 I was 11 years old and that library was fascinating. Thanks for the wonderful memories.”Larry added this:“I remember going downstairs to the Assembly meetings with Mayor George Sullivan around 1971-1972.”Contact Mike and MaryDid you enjoy learning about E.T. Barnette and the founding of Fairbanks?You can easily send us a comment by replying to this email. And you can even Contact Us us to say, “hey, I love the Alaska Stories podcast.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

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In the photo above is the Evan Jones Coal Mine at the top of a 6 percent grade up from Sutton on the Matanuska River.But the story of coal in Alaska doesn’t start with the Evan Jones mine.The subject of the oil painting above is Captain Nathaniel Portlock.In 1786, British trader, Nathaniel Portlock first discovered coal in Alaska at a location named Coal Cove. That area is now Port Graham on the Kenai Peninsula.In 1855, the first commercial coal mine in Alaska was opened by the Russian - American Company near Port Graham.Around the 1900sThe U.S. Government, and as a result, some financiers, became interested in the Matanuska coal fields.High-Quality Coal to Fuel U.S. BattleshipsBecause of the rich, high-quality coal deposits in the Matanuska fields, the Alaska Rail system was developed.In 1914, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson and the U.S. Congress passed the Alaska Railroad Act, authorizing construction of the Alaska Railroad to pass through the Matanuska, Little Susitna, Broad Pass and Nenana coal fields.Coal was also needed by the Alaska Railroad.In 1916, the first load of coal arrived in Anchorage.From its tent city days and up through the early days of Anchorage, coal was a major source for heating.Yes, You Can Share this EditionYour friends and family will love this history-packed edition of Alaska Stories.To share, click on the following link. And you’ll be a hero.Thanks for reading Alaska Stories. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Enter Evan JonesPictured above are Bronwen and Evan Jones at their 1932 Anchorage home.In 1917, Evan Jones arrived in Anchorage. He then became the Superintendent of the Doherty coal mine on Moose Creek. Later, Jones was superintendent of the Eska and Chickaloon coal mines, owned by the Alaska Railroad.In 1920, Jones teamed up with Anchorage pioneers Z.J. Loussac, Oscar Anderson, a hotel operator named Mr. Collins, a dentist named Mr. Blyth and Dr. Boyle.The group leased 2,240 acres on the slope of Wishbone Hill off the banks of the Matanuska River, just north of Palmer, Alaska.Jonesville, AlaskaTo accommodate the workers and their families, the tiny community of Jonesville was established. The town included houses, a school, and a hospital.At one time, the Evan Jones mine was the largest coal mine in Alaska. It was also a major supplier of coal for Anchorage and the Alaska Railroad.The Evan Jones Coal Mine FireBut in November 1922, then Fire chief J.W. Greene and Thomas Bevers were sent to fight a fire that had broken out in the Evan Jones Coal Mine.Greene and Bevers took Anchorage’s brand new La France pumping truck to the fire.On site, they began pumping water from a nearby lake. They sprayed as much as 1,200 gallons of water per minute into the coal mine.The two ran the pumper for three hundred hours with only one break for maintenance. When it was over, Greene and Bevers had a world record for continuous pumping. The fire was extinguished, and the mine was reopened.5.5 Million Metric TonsThe Evan Jones Coal Mine produced around 5.5 million metric tons of high-quality coal from 1920 into the 1960s.The mine supplied coal to Anchorage, neighboring Fort Richardson Army base and Elmendorf Air Force Base.BONUSWould you like to know more about Evan Jones and the Alaska Coal Mines?Take a look at the Alaska Mining Hall of Fame and discover.DOUBLE BONUSDo you remember the 1966 musical hit by Lee Dorsey, “Workin in a Coal Mine”?Click on the following link and enjoy the memory.Alaska FactPalmer was just 40 miles south of the Evan Jones coal mine.But did you know that on July 6, 1917, when the Palmer Post Office was first opened, it wasn’t called Palmer, Alaska?At that time, the small community was called “Warten”, Alaska.Anchorage Memories.comYou’ll quickly discover a treasure chest filled with pictures, stories and wonderful memories.Take a look at Anchorage Memories.com and enjoy.Connect with Mike and MaryHave you ever filled up a bucket from a coal bin? Mike’s family spent time on a farm near Wasilla, Alaska, and it was young Mike’s job to fetch coal for the stove.Did you enjoy this edition of Alaska Stories?We’d love to read your comments. To connect with us, just reply to this email. Or you can reach us right here to say, “I’ve been workin in a coal mine, goin on down down”. Remember that song?Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

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