If you live in Alaska, or used to, you probably know what the above photo is all about. But more about this picture in a moment.

This look at the Alaska Zoo, located in Anchorage, starts with an interesting story.

What’s Behind Door Number Three?

The title above refers to a TV game show called “Let’s Make a Deal.” The story that follows is sort of like that show.

In 1966, Jack Snyder, the owner of the S&F Foodland grocery store, located at Minnesota Drive and Spenard Road (did you shop there?), entered a contest.

The contest was run by the good folks who make Chiffon toilet paper. It was simple: the grocery store that sold the most Chiffon TP would get a prize.

Mr. Snyder won. We guess that Anchorage needed a lot of TP that year.

As it turned out, Snyder had two choices for his prize.

Behind door number one was a $3,000 cash prize. Not bad. Behind door number two was a real-life, 400-pound baby Indian elephant named Annabelle. No one knows what was behind door number three.

Well, for some reason (perhaps he was an animal lover), Mr. Snyder decided to take the door number two prize, the Elephant.

Not Since the Ice Age

It had been a really long time (the Ice Age) since Alaska had seen a 400-pound baby elephant stomping around in the Great Land. And by the way, baby Annabelle was known to eat 60 pounds of food a day on her way to becoming a full-grown elephant.

Because Annabelle was such a rare sight in Anchorage, she used to make personal appearances at Foodland and other places around town. Annabelle quickly became a local celebrity.

Fast-forward to 1969, when the “Alaska Children’s Zoo” opened with Annabelle the elephant as the featured attraction, along with assorted animals that were donated.

Annabelle Was Also an Artist

In the picture above, Anchorage artist Dianne Barske works with Annabelle as the elephant creates her latest painting. She was an artist, yes, she was.

A Fitting Tribute

Annabelle passed away on December 15, 1997. And she was so loved that she was buried in the Alaska Zoo, where the large marker pictured above pays tribute.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so excited that they will give you your own tropical island hideaway, complete with a mansion and a beach named after you… well, it could happen.

Binky the Polar Bear

Binky poses with a tennis shoe. More about the shoe in a moment.

Another zoo favorite was Binky the polar bear.

Back in 1975, Binky was an orphaned cub who was found near Cape Beaufort on the North Slope of Alaska.

When Binky was brought to the Alaska Zoo, Mike of Anchorage Memories was a news videographer and was sent to the Zoo with KTVA channel 11 reporter Tom Miller to get video of the cute little polar bear cub.

At the zoo, Mike was let inside a small enclosure with the cub.

“Binky was just this tiny ball of white fur and was very curious about me and my video camera. At one point I sat the camera down on the floor and Binky came up and licked the front of the lens. That remarkable footage was seen that evening on the channel 11, 6 o’clock news.”

Some years later, Mike, our children Nikki and Chris, and I visited the zoo and went to see Binky, who was full-grown and weighed 1,200 pounds. Mike remembered Binky, but was sure that Binky didn’t remember him.

Binky and the Shoe

On July 29, 1994, a 29-year-old woman became a news headline around the world when she decided to get closer to Binky, so she could take a picture of the Polar Bear.

The woman jumped the safety rails, and Binky stuck his head through the bars and grabbed her. The woman survived, but Binky had her shoe in his mouth (see the picture above). Binky kept the shoe for 3 days before zoo officials were able to retrieve it.

BONUS

You can read more about Binky the Polar Bear and remember when.

So here’s the question

If you had won the Chiffon Toilet Paper sales contest, would you have chosen the $3,000 prize or the 400-pound baby Indian elephant?

Leave a comment

Send a Message to Mike and Mary Jane

Did you answer the burning question? Would you have taken the $3,000 cash prize, or the 400-pound baby Indian elephant that consumed 60 pounds of food every day?

Until next time

Mike and Mary Jane

The Anchorage Memories Club

In the picture above, a boy sells newspapers in Anchorage, circa 1918-1920.

If you grew up in Anchorage, what was your first job?

Did you move to Anchorage from somewhere else in Alaska, or from the “lower 48?”

Growing up, your parents likely told you to “clean up your room”, “take out the trash”, or “do the dishes.” But those jobs didn’t come with an actual paycheck.

Remember how good it felt to get the reward of money in exchange for your hard work.

Mary Jane of Anchorage Memories, Recalls Her First Jobs

Wah! Wah! Wah!

That’s the sound all babysitters hear.

When I was in the 5th grade, my very first job was watching and caring for my nieces and nephews, and neighborhood children. And because some parents referred me to other parents, I was the go-to babysitter for even more children. And yes, the pay was very good.

As a high school senior, I worked as a child attendant at the Anchorage Montessori School for 3 and 1/2 hours each weekday.

The 3 to 5-year-olds enjoyed listening to children’s records, playing games, and sing-alongs. In addition, I read stories to them. Interesting that now I’m the author of several children’s books.

Back then, my paycheck from the Montessori school made me feel all grown up at 17.

Yes, You Can Share This Fun Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will create a bronze statue of you with a plaque proclaiming to the world that your first job was in Anchorage, Alaska… well, it could happen.

Mike of Anchorage Memories Had Three First Jobs

At the ripe old age of 14, I had a newspaper route, delivering the Anchorage Daily Times to my neighborhood near East High School.

I saved the money I earned from that job and purchased a used Sears Moped.

Not long after that, A friend of my parents asked me if I would like a job as the janitor for their hair salon in downtown Anchorage. I agreed to give it a try. But after a few weeks, it was obvious that working in a hair salon was not for me.

When I was 18, I got a part-time job at KTVA channel 11, and that led to a 30-plus-year career in television broadcasting.

What was your first job in Anchorage?

Just click on the following button and tell us all about it.

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From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From our “Favorite Teachers” edition.

Randy remembers:

“Mike/Mary. So many wonderful teachers from the days that the first Williwaw opened (1960 first grade) up through graduation at East High in 1972. Far too many to mention. All I know is that most created the most memorable education this old man could have. We had some great teachers.”

Edi has these favorites:

“Two of my favorite teachers were math teachers - Mr. Hardin in junior high and Ms Rougier in high school. I went on to major in math in college. Mr. Granville was a junior high school principal who also taught classes in Alaska Geography and History. He always included humor in his classes. One other favorite was a language teacher - Mrs. Dahl, in whose classes I studied Spanish, which I also continued to study in college.”

When I was in school there was only one Anchorage Junior High/Senior High School. It was downtown on 6th Ave. Part of the time the junior high schoolers went to school in shifts. The senior high schoolers went when they had classes scheduled. They tried to set up our class schedule so that we had a free period near to noon so we could eat lunch. But, one semester I ate half of my lunch at 10:00 and the other half after I finished at 2:00.”

Becky recalls:

“Mountain View Elementary when it was brand new gave me a great start and I remember all my teachers there very well. Possibly my favorite was Mr. (Howard?) Barr who had been in the military and still carried himself that way. I had a wonderful time studying the Civil War in his class--a hobby of mine, still.

At Orah Dee Clark, I loved Mrs. Lily Neilson's Eng class and can still remember her reading Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, giving all the characters different voices. SO great!

At East High, I loved the music teachers - Mr. Kirke Muse and Mr. James Everly - of course, but also those who insisted that i work hard. (I came from the "do only enough work to get an A or maybe a B" school of tho't.) Mrs. Joan Baxter taught English Lit and for her I DID work. And it paid off with higher grades (imagine it). So in one sense she is probably my most unforgettable teacher at EAHS.”

Dennis had these favorites:

“While attending Ora Dee Clark School, I had a few favorites.. I was a band guy as well, and Mr. Kelly was the band director then.... But as for teachers, Mrs. Von Rohr, for algebra and Mr. Whitner (sp?).

Ahh, good memories.”

Gene remembers:

“Perhaps the one teacher who had the biggest impact on my life was Jack McGuin, the band director I learned from, first at the downtown Jr. High where he was my teacher in 7th and 8th grades, and then through all four years of high school band at the school on Romig Hill.”

Friederike recalls:

“Mr. Joe Buckingham, Ev DeMello, and Mr. Ed Harbke were my favorites. Each taught me life lessons and skills I’ve used every day since. We all remained friends until their individual passings.”

Send A Message to Mike and Mary Jane

Those great memories of our first jobs in Anchorage, Alaska, remind us of that time in our lives when our horizons were limitless, and anything was possible.

What did you learn about yourself from your first jobs in Anchorage?

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Until Next Time

Mike and Mary Jane

The Anchorage Memories Club

In the photo above is the Denali Elementary School 3rd-grade class of Mrs. McGraw. Mary of Anchorage Memories is circled in the front row.

From elementary school, junior high school, and high school, we all have special memories of a teacher or two, or three, who really made a difference.

And we carry those memories with us for a lifetime.

Mary and I want to give you some space here to share your memories of a favorite Anchorage teacher who made a difference in your life.

Mary Remembers

Miss Werner was my first-grade teacher at Denali Elementary.

She made a shy student feel like a friend. And she went out of her way to make the other classmates my friends, too.

I had the same teacher for the 2nd and 3rd grade at Denali. Mrs. McGraw was very nice and helpful.

Our morning sharing time with my classmates was good and helped me to learn about them and to make friends.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will give you a free year of your favorite Lucky Wishbone lunch… well, it could happen.

Mike Remembers

Two teachers come to mind here.

The first was my early 1960s gym teacher, Mr. Balote (sp?) at Clark Junior High School.

I remember him as being stern, but very understanding. In the 7th grade, I recall the need to visit his office in the Boy’s locker room. As I came up to his office, I noticed a sign on the window of his office door. The sign read, “Knock or Suffer.” I immediately knocked on the door and was told to come in.

Another thing I recall about Mr. Balote was something I witnessed when I was in the 8th grade.

The incoming 7th-grade boys had to adjust to changing into their gym gear and then taking a shower with all the other guys at the end of gym class.

My Balote noticed one 7th-grade boy was having a hard time and standing way off by himself. Coach Balote went over to him and gave him some reassuring words. The boy thanked him and joined the others.

In 1963, I auditioned as a trumpet player for Mr. James Everly, the conductor of the East Anchorage High School Symphonic Band.

Mr. Everly was an excellent teacher, and I learned a lot from him. In the East High band, I ended up in what is known as the first trumpet section. And by my senior year, I was First Chair First, the head of the trumpet section.

What Mr. Everly taught me was even helpful in my television and motion picture production career.

I was fortunate enough to win an Emmy Award for my camera work. I should have mentioned Mr. Everly in my acceptance speech.

Anchorage Memories

Our website, Anchorage Memories, is a treasure chest of memories, photos, and videos.

Take a moment to drop by Anchorage Memories and enjoy.

Connect with Mike and Mary

Our favorite teachers made a positive impact on our lives.

Who were your favorite teachers? We want to hear about them.

Share your memories of your favorite Anchorage school teacher.

Leave a comment

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Or, you can Contact Us right here.

Until Next Time

Mike and Mary Jane

The Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

He had no money and no job prospects on the horizon.

So, in 1929, during the Great Depression, he was able to sneak on board the SS Aleutian steamship, headed for Seward, Alaska.

Once in Seward, he made his way to Anchorage, where he found work, driving a delivery truck for Standard Oil.

Later, he began a fur trading business using dog teams and chartered planes to reach remote Alaska villages.

And it was his fur trading company that led him to the aviation business.

Meet Linious “Mac” McGee

But he never learned to fly because he was more interested in business and organization than he was in aviation.

Yes, you can Share this Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will buy you a tropical island… well, it could happen.

How it Began

In 1931, McGee partnered with an Alaska Bush pilot named Harvey W. Barnhill.

The two purchased a three-seat Stinson aircraft and began Barnhill and McGee Airways in Anchorage.

About a year later, in 1932, McGee bought out Barnhill’s share of the company. Then, after purchasing another Stinson aircraft, McGee started McGee Airways. It was one of the first air services in Anchorage.

Over the next two years, McGee Airways grew into a fleet of seven Stinson aircraft.

With all the same planes, McGee reasoned that they could interchange parts, which would make it easier to maintain flight schedules.

1934

McGee sold his airline to Anchorage-based Star Air Service, but stayed on as the manager for several years.

1937

He later decided to get out of aviation altogether.

By this time, McGee was involved in the mining industry and later retired at the age of 73.

Star Air Service became Star Airlines

Then, in 1942, Star Airlines was sold, and the name was changed to Alaska Star Airlines.

The Beginning of Alaska Airlines

Photo by Harley D. Nygren

In the picture above is a 1949 Alaska Airlines DC-3

In 1944, the company, which began as McGee Airways, was renamed for the last time. The new name is Alaska Airlines.

Yes, Alaska Airlines came about because of a 1929 stowaway named Linious “Mac” McGee, who came to Anchorage, Alaska, seeking a new life and opportunity in the Last Frontier.

BONUS

You can learn more about Linious “Mac” McGee and Alaska aviation history.

Take a look at McGee Airways: The Story Of Alaska Airlines… and discover.

Connect with Mike and Mary

Did you enjoy the story of Anchorage Pioneer, Linious “Mac” McGee, and his contribution to Alaska aviation? We certainly did.

Do you have a comment?

Leave a comment

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Or, you can Contact Us to say, “I flew with Alaska Airlines 243 times”.

Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club.com

Photo by Jim Zoller

Our edition about Anchorage First Driving Test Memories received a lot of interesting comments.

Jerry remembers his 1953 Driver’s License Number:

“In 1953, I got a driver's license. The license numbers were the next in line. My license number was 53467, so the next person would be 53468, regardless of where they were in Alaska. I was in line in the 1970s to renew when everyone was checking their numbers to see how low their numbers were. When I showed them mine. They all gasped, I was the winner by quite a margin.”

Pat drove once around the block:

“When it came time for me to get my driver's license, Dad decided I should go to a driving school. The instructor was a fellow by the name of Cox. He was also a music teacher. So the day came for the driving test, and I told the examiner that I was taught by Cox. The examiner told me to drive around the block. Once around the block and that was it. I don't think he ever looked up from his paperwork.”

Tom remembers a lot of yelling:

“I remember learning to drive from my dad, who meant well but yelled at me a lot, and my mom, who was a bit nervous but less prone to yelling. I finally took the test in March of 1978, 6 agonizing months after my 16th birthday, at the DMV on Dowling Road.

It was probably the easiest driving test in the history of the automobile: I turned left on Dowling, right on the frontage road along Seward Highway, then right on Tudor, right on Lake Otis, and right again on Dowling, turning left back into the DMV. Two left turns the entire test. And then there was no parking test!”

Michael was nervous in Bethel:

“I was 16 and was one of the few students in high school in Bethel to have a driver’s license in 1970. Back then the tests were given at the AST office. I was nervous but just had to drive down the street and back and that was it. I passed!”

Mark was a seasoned driver at 16:

“I turned 16 in 1971. By that time I'd been driving my dad's 1962 International Scout for almost two years. (Until just before the driver's test, the Scout had no tail lights; I just lightly rode the brakes whenever I passed a trooper or city cop.) So I was a confident veteran driver when I arrived at the old DMV location on 5th Avenue. Even parallel parking was not a huge challenge. I Passed easily.”

Comments from our Facebook Post

Sherry didn’t pass:

“During my driving test, my instructor told me to stop. I slowed down and stopped. He "failed" me because I didn't slam on the brakes. He didn't say "STOP!"; he said stop.”

Note from Anchorage Memories

We feel your pain, Sherry.

Karen had to fix a roadside problem:

“I took my test in Eagle River in my VW bug. As we started up Meadow Creek Drive my automatic choke slipped, as it did from time to time, so I pulled into a cul du sac, got out, opened the hood and put it back the way it should be.

As I got back in the car and turned off the flashers, the tester told me to go ahead and just head back to the DMV. I thought that meant the test was over, and I'd have to go again, but I was wrong. She told me she was very impressed with how calm I remained and how I fixed the problem. She passed me without even parallel parking.”

Grover had to parallel park a station wagon:

“Oh yes, in Anchorage... in mom's 1957 Ford station wagon. Parallel parking was intimidating in that critter, but Dad had his truck at work. I lucked out, and slipped right into the spot. The rest of the test was a piece of cake.”

Kathy was driving in downtown Anchorage:

“Nope. Failed to stop at a red light before I made a right-hand turn in downtown Anchorage. Oops! The guy was nice though. I re-took the driving portion a week later and passed.”

Michael took his test in something unique:

“I was at Anchorage’s 4th Avenue DMV. Driving a two and a half ton shop truck with a jib-boom. The person giving me the test was impressed. Lol, farm boys! What can I say.”

Cindy had things under control:

“Yup. First day I was allowed to take the test. In my Mom’s big boat of a station wagon. One trip around a short residential block and parallel parked that puppy like it was nothing. Passed with flying colors plus a huge compliment from the examiner for my parking.”

Vivien told a fib:

“Took mine at DMV on 5th Avenue. When we were coming back to the DMV the tester asked me if I knew how to parallel park. I knew how, but told him I didn’t because I didn’t know what he was going to have me do.”

Ebe remembers it was very casual:

“Yep, I took my test in Nenana in 1968... no red light, one stop sign, no parallel parking. We basically just drove around talking.”

Edi learned with a stick shift:

“I don't think I had to take a driving test in 1950. My dad taught me to drive, sometimes with my little brother or sister in the back seat laughing at my jerky attempts in a standard-transmission car. When he thought I was able to drive, he simply took me to the DMV to buy the license.”

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will have the day you received your first driver’s license declared a National Holiday… well, it could happen.

From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From our Did You Live in an Igloo edition of Alaska Stories.

Michael and the “Governor’s Igloo Mansion”:

“When I was in the Alaska King of the Bands (A Burgundy Rose) in 1968-69, we went to a National Battle of the Bands in North Carolina... Came in 5th!

We were all called “Alaska”, and were asked if we lived in igloos.

We said yes we did, and we had to run an extension cord up from Seattle so we could practice at the Governor’s Igloo Mansion!”

Rolin has a vivid memory:

“Yes, but we had to build a new one every winter, putting in the windows and the garage door was the hardest part, but we could reuse them the next year, I remember skating to the bathroom, and drying off with an ice pick after taking a bath.”

Randall was asked in every classroom:

“Every Alaskan I know has been asked that question. Even into the mid-70s. We briefly relocated to Casa Grande, AZ (as in a grand total of 3 days). The day I registered for high school, I was asked that question in every class.”

Larry in 1971 Bethel:

In the photo above, Larry gestures to this igloo, which was built next to his house in Bethel, Alaska.

BONUS

Did you miss our Did You Live in an Igloo edition?

Take a look at Alaska Stories and enjoy.

Connect with Mike and Mary

We love these comments from our subscribers to both the Anchorage Memories Club and Alaska Stories.

Keep your comments coming, we love hearing from you.

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Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

The Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

The photo above is of 1950s Anchorage

If you were an Anchorage teen, you probably went through the exciting, but scary process of getting your Alaska driver’s license.

Or perhaps you were an adult when you got your first Alaska Driver’s License.

Anchorage streets are challenging. In the winter, you have to drive on ice and snow. Remember, “Pump your brakes and turn into a skid.” In the spring, there is muddy water everywhere, and roads are filled with potholes as big as moon craters.

What are your memories?

Did you start with a Learner’s Permit?

Mary of Anchorage Memories shares her story:

Mary’s Anchorage Driving Test Adventure

“Nope. When my sister Betty went to get her Alaska driver’s license, she failed the driving test because she drove over a curb. Later, when she took the test for a second time, she passed.

When I was 16, my stepfather Bob took me to the DMV in our 1968 Camero.

Yep. I passed the written test. Then on to the driving test. I followed all the instructions from the DMV guy who was in the passenger seat, telling me what to do. “Turn left, turn right, cross the railroad tracks.” I was then instructed to head back to the DMV for the parallel parking test. Yep. I passed.

As Bob drove me home, he told me that he knew the guy who gave me the driving test. And if I hadn’t passed, he was going to tell him that I was his step-daughter, and you need to give her a passing test score.

Yep. When we got home my mom was happy that I had gotten my Alaska driver’s license because she didn’t drive, and I could be her chauffeur.”

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will send you a free Lucky Wishbone burger basket every week for a year… well, it could happen.

Mike’s Anchorage Driving Test Adventure

“As a teen, I started with a driver’s permit. My mom and dad took turns teaching me the finer points of driving. Like how to stay on the road and off the sidewalk.

Then came the big day when mom took me to the Anchorage Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to get my Alaska driver’s license.

After I nervously passed the written portion, I was ready for the scary part… the actual driving test.

Remember, the Driver’s Manual plainly stated that I was not to talk to the person giving me the test.

“Pull out into traffic. Stop here. Turn right, turn left.”

Then I made a mistake. I pulled to a stop after passing the stop sign. Quickly, the man testing me said matter-of-factly, “Stop in front of the stop sign not behind it.” Ok, I was sure I had just failed the test.

Moments later, he said, “Head back to the DMV.” At that moment I really got nervous because I thought the dreaded parallel parking test was coming up, and I hadn’t practiced that one.

However, when we arrived back at the DMV, he said, “Pull up, park and turn off your engine.” Wow, I didn’t have to parallel park. Then, after scribling a few notes, he got out of the car without saying a word and went back into the DMV.

I wondered if I had failed the test. Moments later, I was inside the DMV and a woman came over, handed me a piece of paper and said, “Go over there to get your picture taken.” I had passed my test!

Later, I stood on the sidewalk, basking in the warm summer day and thinking to myself, “I have my Alaska Driver’s License.” I got in the car and mom drove us home.”

Connect with Mike and Mary

What are your memories of taking your Alaska Driver’s Test, or even taking the written Driver’s Test as an adult in Alaska?

Do you have a comment?

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Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

The Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

You can see the Ship Creek Meat Market in the middle of the picture.

Oscar Anderson made his way from Seattle to Seward, Alaska, then onto Ship Creek in 1915 and what would become Anchorage.

Anderson said he was the 8th person to set foot in the rugged tent city that was located on the north shore of Ship Creek.

His first job was cutting wood in an area that would later become known as Government Hill.

In the weeks that followed, Anderson teamed up with a man named Jensen. The two decided to put together a cold storage business. That operation became a meat packing company, serving the entire Cook Inlet region.

Later, Anderson headed for Seattle to purchase equipment for a cold storage plant and what would become the Ship Creek Meat Company.

After purchasing a lot on 4th Avenue in Anchorage, where Stewart’s Photo is now located, he opened the Ship Creek Meat Market.

Live Cattle were then shipped from Seattle and kept in corrals in Anchorage.

The Ship Creek Meat Market became the largest fresh meat supplier in Alaska. The business closed in the 1950s.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will send you on an adventurous tour of Alaska in a dog sled… well, it could happen…Mush!

Woolworth’s in Downtown Anchorage

Photo by Ward Wells, June 27, 1961

Oh, the memories.

Located on the south side of 4th Avenue and F Street, Woolworth’s was an Anchorage favorite.

Remember the lunch counter, known as the Frontier Room? Mike of Anchorage Memories remembers when his mom, Louise Dougherty, worked there.

And Mary remembers going into Woolworth’s to buy a large (about two feet long) bag of popcorn and some candy to take with her to see a movie at the 4th Avenue Theatre. And back in those days, the 4th Avenue Theatre was nice enough to let you do that if you asked nicely.

The Woolworth Grand Opening

From Mary of Anchorage Memories:

“As I walked into Woolworth's for the first time, I saw the café on the left, makeup, and school supplies in the middle and my favorite aisle… the toy section.

Woolworth's was just a few doors down from the 4th Ave Theater, and that made it a happening place to go.

My entire family went to Woolworth's Grand Opening in Anchorage when I was in grade school.”

BONUS

Enjoy Mary’s Woolworth’s grand opening adventure.

Take a look at Mary’s story, “Woolworth’s Grand Opening” and remember.

From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From our Alaska Flag story.

Eric recalls:

“The best Flag and the best State Song in the Union. As a child in school, we would sing it every morning. I still sing it for friends.”

Jerry’s Daughter sang at the World Fair in Seattle:

“At the World's Fair in Seattle in 1962, the Alaska exhibit was well attended. The announcer was describing the Alaska flag and the Alaska song that went along with it. Then asked if anyone knew the Alaska song? My two very young daughters, ten and eleven, sang it alone for the entire crowd. They received loud applause.”

Jerry Knew Benny Benson:

“Benny was a great friend of mine and many others in Kodiak. He was an outstanding Elk of the Kodiak Lodge, 1772. I have an Alaska flag signed by Benny.”

Connect with Mike and Mary

This double memories edition really brought back some great memories.

You can share your memories by commenting below.

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Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

The Anchorage Memories Club

Pictured above is 4th Avenue in Anchorage, Alaska, in the 1940s.

Have you ever wondered how a street got its name? Or who a street was named after?

From around 1915, when the Alaska railroad was being constructed, many people headed to what would become Anchorage, Alaska, in search of a new life.

For some, a street name has given them a permanent place in Anchorage history. A few others may have never been to Anchorage, but they were part of Alaska's history.

Let’s Start with the Glenn Highway

If you head north/northeast out of Anchorage toward Palmer and Wasilla, you find yourself on the Glenn Highway, named after U.S. Army Captain Edwin Glenn.

How About the Seward Highway

One of the most scenic highways in America, the Seward Highway takes you from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula. The Seward Highway was named after former Secretary of State William H. Seward, who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. At that time, Alaska was often called “Seward’s Folly” or “Seward’s Ice Box.”

It wasn’t Always Northern Lights Boulevard

It was named after the famed Northern Lights, but it started with a different name. Before it became Northern Lights Boulevard, it was known as KFQD Road. At that time, the road took you to the studios of KFQD radio, the first radio station in Anchorage and Alaska.

Rabbit Creek Road

The Dena’ina people gave Rabbit Creek its name. And Rabbit Creek Road is named after the creek.

And How About Romig Hill?

This section of Northern Lights Boulevard is sometimes called “Heart Attack Hill” because it’s so steep and challenging when covered with snow or ice.

Romig Hill is named after Dr. Joseph R. Romig, who was known as the dog team doctor, not because he was a veterinarian, but because he traveled by dog team in the Alaska interior.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will name a street after you.

What About Fireweed Lane?

At one time, this street was lined with those bright red Fireweed plants.

In the photo above is Benny Benson.

Do You Know About Benson Boulevard?

This street honors Benny Benson, the school boy who designed the Alaska Flag.

Let’s go to Bootlegger Cove Drive

In 1915, the Alaska Railroad Commission declared that liquor was banned in the area around Ship Creek that would become Anchorage, Alaska.

BONUS

Well, just around the bend and out of sight was a cove that became a popular spot for those who distilled “squirrel juice,” otherwise known as “moonshine”, to bring their banned goods to shore. The area later became known as Bootlegger’s Cove.

Then There is Lake Otis Parkway

You wouldn’t know it now, but back in 1919, a local named Otis turned a lake into an Ice Skating rink. The lake was named after him, and the Parkway was named after his lake.

The View of Mountain View Drive

A homesteader named Norman Lang decided to sell off part of his homestead as lots. He named his subdivision “Mountain View” because, well, it has a great view of the mountains. The road was given the same name.

To Bar or Not to Bar Debarr Road

You are welcome to take this one with a grain of salt. In Anchorage folklore, the story goes like this.

An unnamed homesteader became frustrated with Army restrictions on his property. The Army was apparently barring him from doing something. So the homesteader was reportedly heard saying, “First they bar us, then they de-bar us.” Debarr Road is possibly the result of his frustration… or not.

Spenard Road

In 1916, Joe and Edith Spenard came to Anchorage from Valdez. Joe even brought the first vehicle to Anchorage.

Along the way, Joe turned what would become known as Spenard Lake into a resort. But to get there, he needed a road. So he convinced some local Anchorage groups to help him build a sort of road from the new area of Anchorage to his lake. The result is now called Spenard Road.

The Whitneys Have a Road

John and Daisy Whitney first arrived at the mouth of Ship Creek in 1911 from across Cook Inlet in Knik.

Whitney Road is located just below Government Hill, not far from their homestead.

BONUS

And Talking About Homesteaders

Many roads and streets in Anchorage are named after homesteaders.

Muldoon and Muldoon Road

Arnold Muldoon first arrived in Anchorage in 1939. He homesteaded in an area that was way out of town at that time. That area is now known as Muldoon.

He also built a road of sorts that quickly became known as Muldoon’s Road.

BONUS

Turpin Street

Near Muldoon Road, you’ll find Turpin Street. Named after Eldrich “Dick” Turpin, who came to Anchorage in 1937, just a couple of years ahead of Arnold Muldoon. His homestead was next to the street that now bears his name.

Bragaw Street

It’s named after Robert Bragaw Jr.

Klatt Road

Named after homesteaders, Lester and Dora Klatt.

DeArmoun Road

This road was named after a homesteader named Harold DeArmoun.

Abbott Road

Homesteader Cecil Abbott was honored with the naming of this road.

Huffman Road

As you might have guessed, this road is named after a homesteader named Vernon Huffman.

Boniface Parkway

And you guessed it, Paul Boniface was also a homesteader.

Have You Ever Shopped at the Dimond Center Mall?

Dimond Boulevard was named after Judge Anthony “Tony” Dimond.

And What About O’Malley Road?

This road is named after a well-thought-of Anchorage doctor, James “Doc” O’Malley.

Dowling Road

This Anchorage road is named after a one-time Anchorage Surveyor named “Bud” Dowling.

Tudor Road

Named after Burl Tudor, who was involved with the Chugach Electric Association.

Baxter Road

This road was named in honor of Dr. William “Bill” Baxter, a local physician, for his contributions to Anchorage.

And Who Was Marijane Street Named After?

Located in the Pennington subdivision of Anchorage, this street was named after our own Mary Jane of Anchorage Memories.

Do you know the origins of other Anchorage, Alaska, roads, streets, or Boulevards? You can send them to us by replying to this email.

From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From our look at the Seward Highway.

Jackie was excited about this:

“Oooo, yeah, Kiddie Land! The roller coaster was small, but still fun. And don't forget McHugh Creek - beautiful place for a picnic!”

A Note from Anchorage Memories:

Jackie, the picture above of Mary of Anchorage Memories with our children, Nikki and Chris, was taken at McHugh Creek. You’re right, it is a fantastic spot for a picnic. What a view.

Connect with Mike and Mary

Do you know the origins of any Anchorage roads we may have missed?

You can easily send us your comments:

Leave a comment

You can also reply to this email.

Or, you can Contact Us right here.

Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage Memories.com

A Little Background

William H. Seward was the United States Secretary of State from 1861 to 1869.

Seward negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia for 7.2 million dollars in 1867. In his honor, the road linking Anchorage to the Kenai peninsula was named the Seward Highway.

Mike of Anchorage Memories has this memory:

“In 1950, our family moved to Anchorage because my dad had a job as a heavy equipment operator, during construction of the Seward Highway.”

Notice:

In the Anchorage Daily Times newspaper, Tuesday, October 16, 1951, article above, the Seward Highway was going to be opened to traffic that Friday.

It’s been a lot of years since the highway opened. So in this edition of Anchorage Memories, we’re looking at some favorite places along the famed highway.

Kiddie Land

In the photo above is the Kiddie Land, Alaska Railroad train.

Remember the Kiddie Land amusement park just off the Seward Highway? It had all kinds a fun rides. But the best ride was the train seen above.

Modified Stock Car Race Track

Out on the Seward Highway in the mid 1950s was a dirt racetrack. And every Sunday they held races.

BONUS

Mike of Anchorage Memories remembers his dad was a mechanic on a race car he owned with the driver. They raced every Sunday on the Seward Highway dirt track.

Take a look at Anchorage Race Track Memories and enjoy.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will name a tropical island in your honor… well, it could happen.

Bird House

Whenever you had quest come to Alaska, the Bird House was on the list for places to visit.

Located on the Seward Highway near Bird Creek, the Bird House was a one-of-a-kind Alaska bar. The large bird welcomed you, and inside was a sight to see. All kinds of things hanging from the walls and ceiling.

Bird Creek

When the salmon were running, nearby Bird Creek was lined with people and fishing poles. The picture above was a typical sight.

Picnic with a Spectacular View

In the picture above, Mary, Nikki and Christopher of Anchorage Memories enjoy a beautiful view.

On a drive down the Seward Highway, this spot overlooks Cook Inlet.

The Town of Portage

Photo by Bob Pendleton, courtesy of Cindy Pendleton. Circa 1960s.

The town of portage was another great place to stop when traveling the Seward Highway. One of the restaurants had a sign that read, “You can ask to have 1,000-year-old ice in your drink.”

Apparently, once in a while, the owner of the restaurant and bar sent someone to nearby Portage glacier to chip off a block of glacier ice. The ice was then broken into smaller chunks and customers could enjoy having an actual miniature iceberg in their drink. Something to tell the folks about back home.

Welcome to Portage

The town of Portage had a sense of humor.

The 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake destroyed the town, but we have always wondered what happened to the “1 old sorehead.”

Portage Glacier

In the picture above are Mary, Nikki and Christopher of Alaska Stories

Remember the story above where the restaurant offered 1,000-year-old ice in your drink? Well, Portage Glacier was where they got the ice.

Girdwood

The 1948 picture above is Girdwood, Alaska. The building on the right was a bar. Possible one of the oldest in Alaska.

The town of Girdwood has always been a beautiful place to stop along the Seward Highway. Today, it hosts Alyeska Resort, a world-class ski hill.

Yes, the Seward Highway offers unsurpassed scenic beauty and a lot of places to spend some time. It’s also filled with rich memories.

From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From our Anchorage Skiing Memories edition.

Lawrence has this memory:

“I really enjoyed cross country skiing at Russian Jack park in the late 1970s. It was also great for sledding.”

Connect with Mike and Mary

Driving down the Seward Highway was a lot of fun. What are your memories?

Do you have a comment?

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Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

In the 1963 photo above is Romig Hill, which was across the street from West High School.

Downhill and cross-country skiing are some of the great things about living in and around Anchorage, Alaska.

Now, let’s take a look at some areas used by early Anchorage pioneers and some places we remember for having a fun time on our skis.

1910 to the 1950s

In the 1925 photo above, early Anchorage homesteaders are using the Lake Otis/South Chester Creek Ski Trails.

City Ski Bowl

From 1917 to 1957, the City Ski Bowl, also known as the Army Ski Bowl and Watertank Hill, served as the go-to place.

The City Ski Bowl was located on the bluff, northwest of Gambell and 3rd, overlooking Ship Creek. It featured a downhill run, a ski jump (pictured above), and cross-country ski trails.

In the picture above, notice part of the Recreation Bowling Alley sign in the upper right.

In the winter, from 1917 into the 1950s, the downtown streets of Anchorage were unpaved and covered with snow.

Because of that, they used to race on cross-country skis right down 4th Avenue as part of the Fur Rendezvous winter carnival. The races began in front of the Recreation Bowling Alley.

Photo by Nancy Simmerman

In the 1969 picture above, Barbara Britch is seen on the right, tagging Anne Thomas, the number 3 cross-country skier on the left.

Arctic Valley Ski Hill

Pictured above is Arctic Valley in the 1960s.

Beginning in 1941, the military developed Arctic Valley, a ski hill in the Chugach Mountains overlooking Anchorage. Arctic Valley is near Site Summit, where the Christmas Star is located, a gift from the military.

There was also a civilian ski hill right next to the military ski hill.

1950s to 1967

Remember the Forest Park Golf Course Rope Tow Ski Hill?

Located just south of Westchester Lagoon and east of the railroad tracks.

This one was a private ski hill; however, the Anchorage Nordic Cross Country Ski Club also used the hill in the 1960s.

Remember the Government Hill Ski Run?

In the 1950s, this ski hill was next to the Curling Ice Rink.

It had no rope tow, so skiers would ski down the hill, then they had to hike back up to the top. How many trips up and down do you think they could make in a day?

Point Woronzof Ski Trails

Yes, you could cross-country ski near the airport.

The Point Woronzof Ski Trails were located in the northern part of what is now Ted Stevens International Airport.

The Old Hilltop Ski Area

Hilltop got its start in 1962 with a rope tow set-up in a gravel pit west of the old Seward Highway.

In 1967, things changed.

A new ski hill and ski jump were located on Abbott Road near where the road turns into Hillside Drive. This was a ski hill and a ski jump, lighted for night skiing.

Centennial Park in 1973

Located in the western part of Anchorage, this facility featured a rope tow for downhill skiing and cross-country trails.

Glen Alps Early Season Cross-Country Ski Loop

Located near the base of Flattop mountain, this 1970s location was the first place to get snow in the Anchorage area.

Muldoon Park

This ski location was built by the Municipality of Anchorage Parks and Recreation.

Anchorage Schools and Skiing

In 1968, Dimond-Mears had a cross-country ski trail across Arlene Street from the Dimond High School track.

Then in 1969, you could use the Wendler Junior High School Ski Trails and Alaska Communitry College (ACC) Ski Trail. Those trails were located to the east and south of Wendler.

Outside of Anchorage

And not far from Anchorage is Alyeska Resort.

Located in Girdwood, Alyeska is a great place to ski for beginners and experts.

Are You Ready to Ski?

After all this talk about skiing, Mike and Mary are ready for a run down one of our favorite slopes. And if you’re a cross-country fan, time to get those skiis ready.

From our North Stars (that’s you)

From our Independence Gold Mine edition of Alaska Stories.

Eric has this memory:

“My Dad work at Independence Mine in 1941. He was a mining engineering student at the University of Alaska. He is in the picture of the miners standing in the mouth of the mine on display at the park headquarters. (The only one with glasses.)”

Connect with Mike and Mary

That’s Mike in the picture above at Alyeska Resort in the 1970s. Mary was behind the camera.

Like we said at the begining, downhill and cross-country skiing are some of the great things about living in and around Anchorage, Alaska.

Do you have a skiing memory you’d like to share?

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Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

Pictured above are the Heartbeats. Left to right are John (Raphael), Eddie, and Raul, the Apostol brothers. In the front is Emerson Crivello.

A big thank you to Anchorage DJ Ron Moore, the Coke Show, the Heartbeats, and their hit song “Anne” for the fun audio introduction to this edition of the Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club.

Note:

You can hear the entire song “Anne” at the end of the article voiceover above.

Who were your favorite Anchorage bands?

Did you play in an Anchorage band?

Anchorage, Alaska, was blessed with a lot of musical talent, both teens and adults. And the music they gave us is dear to our hearts.

The teen bands played at teen nightclubs and dances, while the Anchorage club scene had its own bands and entertainers.

So how does an Anchorage teen band come together?

There are many ways, but here’s how the Heartbeats began, as told by John Apostol.

“On February 9, 1964, after watching the Beatles’ debut appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show. We were so inspired and motivated by the Fab Four's music that night and couldn’t seem to stop talking about them.

My brother Eddie, half joking, said to Paul (Raul) and me, “Let’s create a band for our enjoyment,” but at that time, none of us knew how to play any musical instruments.

That summer, my brother Eddie worked and saved all his hard-earned money and bought us the musical instruments we needed from the Sears catalog. He bought me my first electric guitar, an amp, and a guitar chord book. He bought Paul a drum set, and he bought an electric bass guitar and amp for himself, and then he asked us to learn how to play the instruments he gave us.

And that’s how we got started.”

BONUS

You can enjoy the whole story of the Heartbeats.

Take a look at In John’s Own Words: The Pulsating Heartbeats and enjoy.

But our story begins long before the Heartbeats

Pictured above are the KFQD Serenaders. Photo courtesy of Gary Smith.

In the 1930s, the KFQD Serenaders band was formed by Gene Smith, who is the dad of Gary Smith. Gary is a contributor to Anchorage Memories. KFQD radio was the first radio station in Anchorage and Alaska, and KFQD featured local music talent.

The Five Pages

Pictured above in 1963 are the Five Pages. Photo courtesy of Gary Smith.

In the 1960s, The Five Pages were performing all over town. They included Don Huhndorf on guitar, Gary Smith on guitar, Cradoc (Dick) Bagshaw bass, Bob Smith (Brother) on sax, and Ceasar Romero on drums. The singer was Fred Bibbler.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will send you on a one-week, all-expenses-paid stay at the most expensive hotel in the world… well, it could happen.

The First Band to Play at the Royal Pad

Pictured above is Blain’s paint store in Spenard.

The second story of Blain’s paint store in Spenard was home to the teen nightclub known as the Royal Pad.

Anchorage radio DJ Ron Moore was known as the “Royal Coachman,” and still is, by the way. For that reason, his teen nightclub (pictured above) was called the Royal Pad, and his car was the Royal Coach.

The first band to perform at Ron Moore’s Royal Pad was a group called The Von Essex's, which included Jackie Goodman on piano, Gary Smith on guitar, Fred Johnston on bass, and Darryl Smaw on vocals.

Plenty of Teen Bands

Do you remember the Arsons? They were a popular Anchorage teen band in the 1960s.

In the photo above is the Blue Chip Stock.

The Blue Chip Stock was a popular Anchorage teen band in the 60s.

Skip Conte, the keyboard player for Blue Chip Stock and the Heartbeats, went on to co-write the hit song “Ride Captain Ride.”

The Outlaws were a 1960s Anchorage teen band.

If memory serves, Gary Sloan (pictured above) was the lead singer.

BONUS

Dean Forbes played guitar for Mother’s Apple Pie and Baseball Band. Dean was interviewed by Anchorage Memories some years ago.

Take a look at Dean Forbes and Mother’s Apple Pie and Baseball Band and enjoy.

The Heikes Family band was based in Eagle River. They also played the Alaska State Fair.

BONUS

Author Sandy Heikes tells the story of her family's band.

Take a look at The Heikes Family Band and remember.

The Anchorage Music Scene

Because of limited space, we were barely able to scratch the surface here.

Remember Burgundy Rose, G. Morgan S. and the Jets, Fantastic Zoot, and Albatros? And we remember the Chandels, the Gatormen, the Johnson Brothers, the Nomads, the Prophets, and the Quarrymen just to name a few.

How about the house band at the Pines called The Pacesetters, and another was Family Tradition?

And “Johnny Collinsworth and the Country Capers Music Variety Show”

Some time ago we wrote about the Anchorage music scene on Anchorage Memories.com. And since then, many band members have sent us comments about the local teen bands and the many nightclub bands. It’s a great read.

BONUS

You’ll love these memories.

Take a look at The Anchorage Music Scene and remember when.

Connect with Mike and Mary

What wonderful memories of the bands and musicians we enjoyed in our town. We can almost hear the music again. How about you? Now listen to the audio and enjoy the entire Heartbeats song, “Anne.”

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Or, you can Contact Us right here.

Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

Pictured above is Lester Peter Aloysius Snow (Gene Miner) in the KBYR radio studio.

Do you remember those wonderful days when you listened to your favorite Anchorage, Alaska, radio personalities?

Sometimes you listened at home. Maybe you were tuned in with your car radio. And who can forget that nifty invention called the portable transistor radio? You could take those with you just about anywhere.

An anonymous reader remembers:

“Sitting here with my coffee in hand, I started thinking about a long time ago.

I used to wait in my bedroom until “The Scotty Ferguson Show” would come on the radio on KFQD.

The music was so good, and I really got a kick out of his commercials. There was the soft drink team, whose jingle I can still sing, and there was “Gerald McBoing Boing”.

I remember when his show ended, Gardner Ted Armstrong would follow. I listened to Ruben Gaines all the time; he had a way of making you feel things were good.

It was a wonderful time to grow up in Alaska.”

First in Anchorage and Alaska

Pictured above is KFQD radio when it was located on 4th Avenue in 1924.

Did You Know?

When KFQD radio went on the air on May 24, 1924, it wasn’t just a first for Anchorage. They were also the first radio station in Alaska.

Note:

The station’s call letters. K-F-Q-D, don’t mean anything; they were assigned randomly.

The Second Radio Station in Anchorage

In the photo above is the KENI radio building. The building sits on a bluff with the rear of the building overlooking Westchester Lagoon. The building is now a private residence.

24 years after KFQD began broadcasting, “Cap” Lathrop, the owner of the 4th Avenue Theatre, also built the second radio station in Anchorage, Alaska. KENI radio, which began broadcasting on May 2, 1948, from inside the 4th Avenue Theatre building. Later moving into its own building.

KENI Radio and the Coke Show

In the photo above is Ron Moore, the Royal Coachman.

Did you listen to the Coke Show, hosted by Ron Moore on KENI radio?

You could call in, request a song, and dedicate it to your friends.

Photo courtesy of Ty Pierce.

The Coke Show originated from the small radio booth you see above on the roof of the Bun Drive-In.

And remember, when the cars in the parking lot would beep their horns, Ron called them “Honker Bonkers.”

BONUS

You can hear the Coke Show again and Ron Moore’s Royal Coachman theme.

Take a look at Anchorage Coke Show Memories and enjoy.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will send you on an all-expenses-paid Alaska cruise every summer for 5 years straight… well, it could happen.

Mukluk Telegraph

Remember how you could connect with Alaskans who were in remote areas? The radio station would broadcast your messages.

GrandmaRobbie had a comment:

“We also used the Mukluk Telegraph to contact friends who homesteaded at Sunshine near Talkeetna.”

The KENI radio program, Mukluk Telegraph, was a great service for Alaska audiences.

Mary of Anchorage Memories recalls that her family used Mukluk Telegraph to communicate with other family members at their commercial fishing site at Point Possession, across Cook Inlet from Anchorage.

“Everyone used Mukluk Telegraph to communicate with family while we were going back and forth to our commercial fishing site during the summer. People in places like Tyonek, Chickaloon and Point Possession all relied on Mukluk Telegraph.”

Because that type of radio program was such a well-received community service, other Anchorage radio stations had their own versions.

North Winds on KHAR

Jim remembers:

“In 1959-1961 my father was assigned to Fort Richardson.

Around dinner time there was a regular radio program, probably out of Anchorage, that preceded or followed announcements from people on the grid to homesteaders beyond routine contact.

“For Bob & Sue on Triple Creek: Arrived safely, baby boy 7 lbs 6, mom doing fine. Home on the 13th.”

The program that followed, something like Tales of the Tundra, Jack London-like Sourdough stories read by a man over a background of the song,Claire d’Lune or other mood music.

Note:

The show that followed North Winds was hosted by Rubin Gaines, a favorite Anchorage radio personality.

When you listened to his radio program, you heard Ruben, a fellow named “Six-Toed Mordecai,” Mrs. Malone, Chilkoot Charlie, and a few others. Each one had a strong voice and distinct personality—and Ruben Gaines had created every one of them in his very creative mind—and brought them to life with his incredible vocal talent.

As you listened to Ruben’s show, you couldn’t help but be amazed at how he seamlessly weaved his characters in and out of conversations.

And speaking of conversations, his radio program “Conversations Unlimited” was heard in the afternoons on KHAR, Monday through Friday, to the absolute delight of Anchorage audiences. His theme song was “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy.

Chilkoot Charlie

Of all of Ruben’s characters, one became the namesake for a local bar.

Now known the world over, Chilkoot Charlie’s (sometimes just referred to affectionately as “Koots”) in Spenard has the following bar motto: “We cheat the other guy and pass the savings on to you.”

BONUS

You can listen to Ruben’s radio show. Click on the following link to hear not one, but two recordings from February 1974.

Listen to Ruben Gaines and Conversations Unlimited and enjoy.

1970s Anchorage Radio

Click on the following link and enjoy:

By the way, the KENI radio personality is doing his program from the KENI building near Westchester Lagoon.

Oh, the Memories

Cabin Fever in the Winter

Fun Times in the Summer

Local Anchorage radio kept us connected, entertained, and informed.

And we all had our favorite local radio personalities.

Leave a comment

BONUS

Do you wonder where your favorite Anchorage radio personality is now?

Take a look at Your Favorite Radio Personalities: Where Are They Now? And remember.

You Can Listen Once More

A website called Alaska Oldies has some recordings of many Anchorage radio personalities doing their shows.

Listen to Your Favorite Anchorage radio personalities and remember.

Connect with Mike and Mary

What a great episode of the Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club!

Did you enjoy remembering your favorite Anchorage radio personalities?

Do you have a comment?

Leave a comment

You can also reply to this email.

Or, you can Contact Us right here.

Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

photo above courtesy Patricia Brown. 1940s temporary housing in Mountain View.

In the 1940s, Anchorage, Alaska, was growing, and some homesteaders headed out of town to stake their claim to some land.

Norman Lange was just such a homesteader. Lange headed about 3 miles northeast from Anchorage to a spot that had a perfect view of the Chugach Mountains. Lange ended up subdividing his land and naming it, appropriately, “Mountain View.”

Other early homesteaders in Mountain View now have a neighborhood street named after them. Those include a Norwegian immigrant named Nels Kleven. For some reason, his street name was misspelled “Klevin.”

Robert Bragaw was a territorial legislator and photographer, and Harry Bliss was a contractor. Both have Mountain View streets named after them. But more about Bragaw Street shortly.

In the 1940s, construction workers and others were coming to Anchorage to build Elmendorf Air Force Base. But there was a big problem. Anchorage didn’t have enough housing to accommodate them.

As a partial solution, small temporary housing structures were put up in Mountain View (pictured above).

And speaking of Bragaw Street, you probably didn’t know that from 1942 until 1951, a man named John Vanover ran a 20-acre pig farm in the area.

Pictured above is Brewster’s on Mountain View Drive.

In 1949, Charles H. Brewster and his wife, Betty, opened the Mountain View Washaroo Laundry. But the Brewsters were ready for more, so they started selling clothing in their spare time from their log cabin home located in the Muldoon area of Anchorage.

Then in 1959, the two opened the first Brewster’s Clothing Store in a small log cabin at North Bragaw and Mountain View Drive. They later expanded and became an Anchorage fixture.

Yes, You Can Share this edition

And when you do, your friends and family will send you a year’s supply of your favorite bakery item. Yummy… well, it could happen.

In the picture above is Mountain View Elementary, first opened in 1956.

Mike of the Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club attended Mountain View Elementary School, and one summer, he was a pitcher for the Indians Little League team that practiced on the Mountain View Elementary School baseball field.

A&W Root Beer

In 1957, the first drive-in, A&W Root Beer, opened in Anchorage. It was located in Mountain View.

The location was also home to Timbo and Princess, the A&W lions.

BONUS

Take a look at A&W Drive-In Memories and enjoy.

In the photo above, taken by Ward Wells, is Mountain View Drive on July 2, 1958.

Notice the large building in the background? That’s Caribou’s Department Store.

The picture above is the original Clark Junior High School.

First opened in 1959, Clark Junior High School was the first junior high in Anchorage. Located on Bragaw Street, the school was named after Orah Dee Clark.

Clark was the very first schoolteacher and principal hired in 1915 in the new town of Anchorage, Alaska.

After Clark Junior High opened, Clark herself often visited the school, and students were able to speak with her between classes and after school.

Mountain View Community Center

In the 1960s, Mike of the Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club attended weekly square dancing get-togethers in the Mountain View Community Center. Mr. and Mrs. Topolski ran the dances.

During each weekly dance, they took a short break from square dancing and played some rock and roll for the kids to dance to. Mike of the Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club even got his first announcing gig one week when he was asked to play the rock and roll records and introduce each song.

“I remember playing “Harbor Lights” by the Platters. After I introduced the song and started the record, I looked down from the stage, and there were 3 or 4 girls looking up at me, all wide-eyed and smiling. Wow, my first fan club.”

Then one week, a well-known KENI radio DJ named Bob Fleming was the special guest at the dance. We had a great time at that community center.

In the photo above is the Anchorage teen band, the Heartbeats.

All but one of the Heartbeats band members were the Apostol brothers, and their family lived in Mountain View. Both Mary and Mike of the Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club were friends of the Heartbeats.

In 1966, the “Pulsating Heartbeats” released the hit record “Anne.” On the flip side of the record was “Talkin’ Bout You.”

BONUS

Get the story behind the Heartbeats band and hear their song, “Anne.”

Take a look at In John’s Own Words and enjoy.

Remember Park Lanes Bowling?

Beginning in 1976, Mountain View enjoyed bowling at this Anchorage favorite.

And for a short while, KTVA channel 11 broadcast the weekly TV show, “Bowling for Dollars,” hosted by Chuck Talsky and shot on location at Park Lanes. As a side note, Mike of the Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club was one of the camera operators on the show and also edited the program for broadcast.

Mountain View

We have 1940s homesteader Norman Lange to thank for our Mountain View memories.

Do you have a comment?

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Connect with Mike and Mary

Yes, we have plenty of great memories of a place called Mountain View in Anchorage, Alaska.

What are your memories?

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Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

Anchorage Visitor’s log cabin, year unknown.

When you had out-of-town visitors, where did you take them? It’s likely that you took Uncle Bob and Aunt Darlene to 546 West 4th. Avenue in downtown Anchorage so they could see the visitor’s log cabin.

There it was (and still is), an old, sod-covered Alaska cabin, right smack dab in the middle of our city. How Alaskan.

And displayed there on the ground, right beside the front door, your guests spotted that very impressive 5,445-pound Alaska copper nugget.

Did You Know?

The Visitor’s Log Cabin was built in Homer, Alaska, in 1954.

If you’re into log cabins, you’ll be delighted to learn that this one is made of round logs with saddle-notched corners. It also features a gable roof covered with sod.

Photo by Jet Lowe. Notice the downtown Woolworth’s store just across the street.

The cabin was designed by an architect named Edwin B. Crittenden.

Building took place in Homer at a sawmill owned by “Cap” King.

Others who created the cabin include a logger from Washington state, Otis R. Russell, who had become a homesteader in Alaska’s Kachemak Bay, and Bob Cole. Both were the craftsmen who cut the logs and assembled them.

After the two put the cabin together and checked everything, the cabin was then taken apart, loaded on a truck, and sent to Anchorage.

Meanwhile, back in Anchorage

A foundation had been laid in Anchorage, next to city hall at 4th. and F Streets.

When the truck hauling the cabin arrived from Homer, the cabin was assembled on top of its new foundation, and presto, an instant visitor’s center… Alaska style.

Watercolor by Alaskan Artist Cindy Pendleton

The Anchorage Visitor’s Log Cabin is a part of Anchorage that many of us remember from our childhood. Others may recall the first time they saw this little gem as a grown-up coming to live in this special place called Anchorage, Alaska.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will have a parade in your name, featuring you as grand marshal… well, it could happen.

BONUS

The original Anchorage City Hall was built in 1936.

Now, since the Visitor’s Log Cabin sits on the lawn right next to Anchorage’s original City Hall building, we thought it would be fun to include these facts.

Located at 524 West 4th. Avenue, the original City Hall was designed by Ellsworth Sedille and constructed in 1936.

Did You Know it even housed a Jail?

When it first opened, the building was home to the city mayor’s office, a telephone switchboard, city council chambers, the chief of police, the city engineer, the public utilities superintendent, and the city library.

The building’s basement also housed three jail cells and a “tank room” for drunks, a caretaker’s apartment, as well as quarters for on-duty firefighters.

Visit Anchorage Memories

A treasure chest of great memories. Take a look at AnchorageMemories.com.

From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From our Anchorage Denali Elementary School Memories.

Joe remembers:

“I went to Denali for first grade in 1955. My teacher was Miss Rook in Room 47. Yup, I remember Dick, Jane, Sally, Spot, and Puff: “Run, Spot, run! Run, run, run!” Reading opened a whole world for me.”

Claudia recalls:

“I attended North Star until 3rd grade, then we moved and I attended Inlet View before going to Central Jr. High.”

John tells us:

“I attended kindergarten at Government Hill Elementary in 1960. For the 1st grade through the 3rd grade, I was at Elmendorf attending Aurora Elementary School.”

Gary says, “She became a star”:

“I went to Denali for first and second grade. In my first grade class (Mrs. Johnson was the teacher) was Rosie Hamlin.

She became best known for “Rosie and the Originals - and the song Angel Baby.”

Jerry and his family went there:

“Tom, Jim, Jerry, Patsy, Joe & Jack Ward all went to Denali. Great memories.”

Allen informs us:

“I went to Willowcrest and, in 5th grade, to Northwood Elementary.”

Joe attended these:

“Primarily Nunaka Valley and then Chester Valley. Then, on to Clark in 1973.”

Paula remembers:

“Nunaka - K through 6th grade.”

Melinda recalls:

“From 1959 to 1963, I attended Government Hill Elementary School as we lived in Panoramic View apartments. And we all walked to school. My parents bought a new house on Abbott Loop Road, and we rode a school bus to Abbott Loop Elementary School from 1963 to 1964.”

Patricia informs us:

“Regarding Mt. View Elementary. I attended grade school in that same building, but it was then called Talkeetna Elementary. My second grade teacher was Mrs. Gilman of Gilman’s Bakery fame. In 4th grade, we had 44 kids with only one teacher who was with us the entire day. If my memory is correct, there was a fire in the school during the 54/55 year, and we double-shifted at Airport Heights Elementary. When our school reopened, it was renamed Mt. View Elementary.”

Ronnie recalls:

“My family lived in Anchorage from 1957 to 1960. I think my brother and I went to Airport Heights. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades.”

Eric remembers:

“I attended Mountain View for first grade. Airport Heights, second through 4th. While Nunaka Valley was finished being constructed, I attended Denali for a month and then the old high school downtown until November. Then finished fifth and sixth grade at Nunaka Valley.”

Connect with Mike and Mary

What a great stroll down memory lane.

What are your memories? Do you have a comment?

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Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

Why should you join the Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club?

Here are just four good reasons:

Reason #1:

Mary and I are both Alaskans who grew up in Anchorage, Alaska.

Reason #2:

Every edition of our publication and podcast is filled with memories of the Anchorage, Alaska, you love.

Reason #3:

Every edition is special.

Join Us

So here’s your invitation to join the Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club.

Yes, You Can Share This with friends and Family

Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage, Alaska Memories Club

In the photo above, Mike and Mary of the Anchorage Memories Club are standing in front of the old Denali Elementary School circa 1990s.

You, and well, most all of us, remember where we attended the first grade.

Mike and Mary, pictured above, have a unique memory. Both began their education as first graders in Anchorage’s Denali Elementary School.

“We didn’t attend at the same time. I began some years ahead of Mary, and after the first grade, our family moved to the Mountain View area of Anchorage, where I attended Mountain View Elementary,” says Mike.

In the photo above is Mary of Anchorage Memories. She is posing with her third-grade class at Denali Elementary. Her teacher (left side) is Mrs. McGraw.

Fire Trucks and Ice Skates at Denali Elementary?

by Mary of the Anchorage Memories Club

I was in the third grade in 1960. I was so excited on that dark, cold, crisp morning as my classmates and I stood in the playground watching the firemen. They were filling the previously prepared ice skating rink with water from the fire trucks hoses.

Finally, the day came when we could ice skate. It was very cold; however, I was wearing my mittens and scarf. And after skating several times around the rink, I warmed up.

I started ice skating at the age of four. I was the youngest of eight, and ice skating was a sport my mother wanted her children to do. So, I was an experienced skater and helped my classmates who had never skated before. I felt a deep sense of pride helping them.

As spring came, the ice skating rink melted, and we hung up our skates. At recess time, my friends and I grabbed jump ropes and ran around in our sneakers, having loads of fun.

I went to Denali Elementary School from first grade through the sixth. Walking from 2^nd Ave to 9^th Ave with my family and friends.

Denali Elementary School was damaged in the 1964 Alaska earthquake, and all the students had to finish out the school year at Mountain View Elementary. That was the first time I rode in a school bus. We were the second shift that started around noon.

I was truly thankful for the firemen and their bright red fire trucks for coming back year after year to make us a really “cool” ice skating rink.

BONUS

Take a look at My Green Double-Bladed Ice Skates by Mary Jane Dougherty

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do share this, your friends and family will be so happy that they will gift you with the largest flat-screen TV (292 inches) for your home theatre. Wow.

Mike Recalls His First Days at Denali in the 1950s.

We lived on Fairbanks Street, just a couple of blocks from Denali. On my first day, Mom walked with me to school.

My teacher’s name was Mrs. Rauch. She was a very nice lady.

While at school, I discovered that those leather-looking airplane pilot caps were the cool thing for boys to wear to school. A little too cool in Alaska’s colder months.

In the photo above is first-grade Mike, wearing his pilot hat with borrowed goggles. In the background, Mike’s dad and friends work on their race car.

The hat was actually a dumb-looking skullcap with snaps to hold your goggles in place, should the wearer happen to run into bug-infested skies on his way to school.

Mom and Dad bought me the hat but declined the goggles. I proudly wore my hat to Denali. My taste in hats aside, I was off on a great adventure. The first grade in Anchorage, Alaska, is where I was introduced to Fun with Dick and Jane, Sally, Puff, and Spot. Those five characters would, along with Mrs. Rausch, teach me how to read and write… So I guess I have them to thank for the Anchorage Memories Club.

Fun Lunch Boxes

Back then, Denali didn’t have a lunchroom, so we brought our lunches from home in brown paper bags or lunch boxes.

Girls often had Dale Evans, Tinker Bell, or Alice in Wonderland lunch boxes. The boys favored Roy Rogers, Peter Pan, or Superman. For the record, I was a Superman lunch box guy.

Recess

After lunch and a last gulp of hot chocolate, we headed for the playground.

Of course we had oodles of fun on the swings, slide, and merry-go-round. Plus, we met kids from the other classrooms.

One of the other kids, Bobby Kallander, would become my brother-in-law around 15 years later.

Mike's mom just happened to take the photo above. About 14 years later, Mary was looking at the picture and said, “Hey, Mike is standing right behind my brother Bobby.”

In the red circle, Mike is on the left and Bobby is on the right.

Anchorage Elementary Schools

What elementary school did you attend?

If you lived in Anchorage, you might have attended one of the following:

Mountain View Elementary first opened in 1956

Northern Lights Elementary first opened in 1959

Ptarmigan Elementary first opened in 1967

If you don’t know, a ptarmigan is an Alaskan bird, pronounced “tar-mi-gan.”

And, if your parent was in the Air Force or Army in Anchorage and serving at Elmendorf Air Force Base or Fort Richardson, you may have attended elementary school on one of those military bases. We thank your parent(s) for their service.

Memories

What elementary school did you attend in Anchorage? What are your memories?

Leave a comment

From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From our Star the Reindeer memories.

Gary has this memory:

“The reindeer was always in their yard on 10th and D. We could go by and pet him when we were out that way.”

Jackie remembers:

“My husband, Bob, rented a basement apartment from the Stewarts in the mid-60s, and several times was allowed to take Star for a walk. Great memories of both Star and the Stewarts!”

Claudia’s memory:

“I remember walking by Star's home and sticking my little fingers through the chain-link fence for her to lick them. It was such a magical experience for a little girl. Each time I visited Anchorage, I would go and see Star.”

Cindy had this comment:

“My late husband, Bob Pendleton, came to Alaska in 1962 and went to work for the Stewarts, who often took young aspiring photographers under their wing, giving them a job plus a great start in learning how to be an Alaskan. Star was an integral part of it all. What a delight she was for the children of Anchorage, as well as all the big kids (like me)!”

In the photo above is Bob Pendleton with Star the Reindeer.

The above is a watercolor of Star the Reindeer by Alaskan artist, Cindy Pendleton.

Connect with Mike and Mary

It’s been a “few” years now since we were all in elementary school. But it’s fun to remember those times we shared as we began our academic careers.

And as Sherlock Holmes says, “Elementary, Watson.”

Do you have a comment?

Leave a comment

You can also reply to this email.

Or, you can Contact Us right here.

Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

The Anchorage Memories Club

In the picture above is Star the Reindeer with Oro Stewart.

Photo above by Albert Whitehead

Do you know the story of Star the Reindeer?

To know Star, you first need to meet Ivan and Oro Stewart.

The Stewarts first came to Anchorage from Kodiak in 1944 and opened Stewart’s Photo Shop.

Now anyone who has ever lived in or visited Anchorage has probably at least seen Stewart’s Photo Shop at 531 W. 4th Avenue in downtown Anchorage, just across the street from the Visitor’s Log Cabin.

She wanted an Alaskan Pet

In 1960, Oro announced to Ivan that she wanted an Alaskan pet. At first, Ivan thought that his wife, Oro, wanted an Alaskan Husky. But what she had in mind was a reindeer.

So Ivan contacted Larry Davis, a Native herder outside of Nome.

Wait Just a Minute

It was and still is illegal to own an Alaska reindeer unless you are an Alaska Native. However, there was a way around that law. A reindeer could be leased to someone.

Now, before you head out to lease your very own reindeer pet, the law has been amended, and leasing a reindeer to non-Alaskan Natives is no longer allowed.

Enter Star the Reindeer

Larry Davis came through, and Oro happily received her leased pet reindeer.

In reindeer land, most tend to be either brown or grey in color. But Oro’s reindeer looked a bit different. This reindeer had a white breast and white trim. But her most distinguishing feature was a splash of white, star-shaped fur on her face.

So Oro named her reindeer “Star.” And a star she was.

In the photo above is Star the Reindeer, delighting crowds in the Fur Rendezvous Parade in Anchorage, Alaska.

What a Ham

Star the Reindeer quickly became a local celebrity, and in no time, Star’s fame had spread worldwide.

In Anchorage, Star could be spotted in front of Stewart’s Photo Shop in downtown Anchorage, where Star was happy to pose for local paparazzi (news cameras). But Star wasn’t a diva. No, not Star. This celebrity reindeer was happy to pose for pictures with locals and visitors alike.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will get you and a guest a ride on Santa’s sleigh, plus a photo op with Rudolph… well, it could happen.

Enter Albert Whitehead

Albert worked for Ivan and Oro and his responsibilities evolved into becoming the reindeer caregiver. A position he happily continued for many years.

Star Got Evicted

No, Star wasn’t playing her music too loud, and she wasn’t behind on her rent.

Ivan and Oro kept Star at their home at 10th Avenue and I Street near downtown Anchorage.

Then, in 1973, a change in zoning laws ordered that Star could no longer stay in her home. But Ivan and Oro appealed that Grinchy law, and Star was able to stay.

Years Later

Star lived to be 23 years old. The average life span of a reindeer in the wild is 15 to 18 years.

Since Star’s passing, there were six more who continued the Star the Reindeer phenomenon in Anchorage.

Larry Davis, the Herder, selected every Star, except the last one, Star number seven.

The End of the Star the Reindeer Line

Star number seven left us in 2025. And with that, so ended the long Anchorage tradition of Star the Reindeer.

Our thanks to Ivan and Oro Stewart, Larry Davis, and Albert Whitehead for bringing such joy to so many people in Alaska and all over the world.

And our thanks to Star.

A great Anchorage memory.

Leave a comment

From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From our Anchorage Bootlegger Cove Memories

Jackie had this comment:

“Very much enjoyed this edition and Maggie Wilkinson's memories. I also attended the Quonset hut school, earlier than Maggie (1953-54) and with a real teacher (Mrs. Gordon), and went on to junior high downtown where she did. Things were so different back then - and in my mind, better!”

Did You Know?

Mike and Mary also publish Alaska Stories twice each month.

Take a look at Anchorage Stories and enjoy.

Connect with Mike and Mary

Star was a wonderful, unofficial mascot for Anchorage. We wonder if Star ever met Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Hummm?

Do you have a comment?

Leave a comment

You can also reply to this email.

And you can Contact Us right here.

Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

The Anchorage Memories Club

1968 Bootlegger Cove photo by Cindy Pendleton

Anchorage, Alaska, was a brand-new town in 1915.

And it was a company town, run by the Alaska Engineering Commission as they built the Alaska Railroad.

In those days, entertainment was scarce. Two movie houses, the Empress and the Harmony theatre showed their films to packed houses.

But many railroad workers, business people, and others wanted something they couldn’t have. They wanted liquor. The problem was, Anchorage was bone dry.

Moonshiners Under the Northern Lights

Enter shadowy figures like the Phantom Swede, Russian Jack, and others.

They were known as moonshiners, and they distilled their squirrel juice, as it was called, or white mule in places hidden from authorities.

Russian Jack had a homestead of sorts, located about three miles east of town, next to a spring. That area was later named Russian Jack Springs.

Oh no You Don’t

To combat the manufacturing and sale of alcohol, the Alaska Engineering Commission put together strict rules about intoxicating liquors, gambling, and other vices.

When land was auctioned off to begin building the new town of Anchorage, buyers had to agree that if the property was used for any of the above, the penalty was forfeiture of the lot.

Even so, there was a demand for the whiskey produced by the hidden stills around Anchorage.

Hey, Here’s an Idea

In no time, local moonshiners came up with a new delivery method.

Just to the south and around the bend from the mouth of Ship Creek was the mouth of Chester Creek.

Because Chester Creek was relatively hidden from the prying eyes of authorities in the new townsite, moonshiners like the Phantom Swede and Russian Jack began using the area to deliver their goods.

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will send you to Girdwood, Alaska, for a steak dinner at the Double Musky Inn… well, it could happen.

Anchorage’s Early Days

Can you imagine Anchorage in those early days?

A mass of people drawn to the frontier of Alaska. A tent city on the banks of Ship Creek, and a new town coming to life.

Today, the names of people and places, like Russian Jack and Bootlegger Cove, are all that remain. A gentle reminder of how a town called Anchorage, Alaska, came to be.

BONUS

Memories of Bootlegger Cove

Photo courtesy of Maggie Wilkinson

by Maggie Wilkinson

From 1956 to 1959 I lived in this little log cabin in Bootlegger Cove, Anchorage, Alaska.

It was a momentous time in my life, a time of transition. I was 10 when we moved into the garage apartment in the alley and 13 when we moved to a bigger home because our family was growing.

I went to fifth grade in 1956 in a Quonset hut on the Park Strip, where my teacher was a butcher from the neighborhood grocery store. There were many more students in Anchorage than there were teachers, so the Anchorage School District hired anyone who applied. It was a very difficult year for me.

But things turned around because in 1957, in the sixth grade, I went to the brand-new Inlet View School, and my teacher was a man who made an extra effort to learn about each of his students. He gave me my nickname of “Maggie,” and that made a very positive difference in my life. I felt seen, recognized, and understood.

In 1958, I was in the 7th grade at what is now the location of the Performing Arts Center.

My mother fell in love with and married my stepfather. He was a pilot for Reeve Aleutian Airways, and we were all very proud of him. Life was good. I had a new bike, and I made a little extra money from mowing lawns for $1.00/hr (I later learned to charge by the lawn instead of by the hour!) My best friend lived a block away, and she had a TV that we watched every day after school.

In 1959, when I was in 8th grade, my little sister Betsy was born, and I didn’t know how my life could get any better. The summers lasted forever, and joy filled every day of my life. All of this and more happened in that little log cabin more than 65 years ago.

Recently, my dogs and I walked at ”Betsy’s Park” (Elderberry Park), and then we walked to the log cabin, which is very close by.

I spent a little time there, remembering how I played marbles and jumped rope in the alley, picked pussy willows in the spring, and I got a Chesapeake puppy (named Cinnabar). Many days were spent climbing high up in the cottonwood trees, chasing the train, and getting the engineer to blow the train whistle.

I climbed on icebergs on the mudflats in the winter, played kickball at the park in the summer, and had to be home when the sun touched Susitna’s tummy. I remember riding my bike so fast down the 5th Avenue hill and then pedaling hard back up to do it all again. In the winter, we rode our sleds down the hill and swept the sand off it after the sanding truck went by. In the summer, we jumped over the water spraying from the water truck that came by to keep the dust down on the dirt roads.

It was a good childhood.

I remember a lot of it, and I am truly thankful.

It’s such a cute little log cabin, and it’s packed full of childhood memories.

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BONUS

What was that name?

Most folks that live in, or have ever lived in Anchorage, know the name Russian Jack. He was one of those early pioneers who went by a nickname.

But have you ever heard of The Pale-Faced Kid, Dago Jim or Cream Puff Bill?

What about Happy Jack Smith, Big Red or Walking Swayze?

***As for Cream Puff Bill, he was a baker for the railroad and word was that the pastry he baked, especially his cream puffs, were legendary.

From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From Alaska Stories and our An Alaska Commercial Fishing Adventure edition:

Aletha had this comment:

“I would have left that boat, skipper, and his attitude the minute I learned about the hip waders, I would have jumped (ship) and walked away...”

BONUS

Take a look at An Alaska Commercial Fishing Adventure and enjoy.

Connect with Mike and Mary

The Bootlegger Cove area of Anchorage includes Westchester Lagoon, a man-made recreational lake, and several very nice neighborhoods. It’s funny to think that many people who go there now have no idea that many years ago, the activity of moonshiners gave it the name Bootlegger Cove.

Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage Memories Club

The photo above is Ship Creek.

Summer in Anchorage means fishing along the banks of Ship Creek, Campbell Creek, and many of the lakes in town.

Dolly Varden and rainbow trout are plentiful in the waters around Anchorage.

With visions of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, it was fun to pack a snack, grab your fishing gear, and head out to spend some time at your favorite fishing hole.

She Caught Her First Fish

Mike of the Anchorage Memories Club has this fishing memory he will never forget.

“There I was, fishing from the banks of Campbell Creek. I was suddenly aware of a lady and her young daughter. It was the girl’s birthday, and her mom had given her one of those little ice-fishing poles as a gift.

I watched as the happy young girl put her line in the water. It was obvious that she didn’t know how to fish. So, I offered her some help.

There were some trout in a likely spot in the creek, so I told her to cast her line in that direction. Then I showed her how to hold her line and wait for a nibble.

Within moments, a nice-sized fish was on her line. I then coached her by telling her how to land her fish.

The girl was delighted and had a huge smile on her face as she stood there, holding her fish. Then she looked up at me with big eyes and a smile to match and said, “This is my first fish. Thank you, I’ll never forget you.”

Over the years, I’ve remembered that precious moment on the banks of Campbell Creek. I never knew her name, but I’ll never forget her.”

Old proverb:

"Give a person a fish and you feed them for a day. Teach a person to fish, and you feed them for a lifetime."

Did You Know?

Ship Creek is considered the only urban king salmon fishery in the world.

Ship Creek is so named for the safe anchorage provided for ships near the mouth of the creek.

The Dena’ina called Ship Creek “Crying Ridge Creek.”

Yes, You Can Share This Edition

It's easy.

And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will give you a life-time pass to fish every day of the week if it pleases you… well, it could happen.

In the picture above is Campbell Creek

This Anchorage creek is named after Sir Joseph Campbell, who explored the area between 1785 and 1792.

While Ship Creek, mentioned earlier, is the largest waterway in Anchorage, Campbell Creek is the second-largest.

The One That Got Away

Mike of the Anchorage Memories Club was fishing in Campbell Creek one afternoon near a beaver dam and has this memory:

“I had my line in the water in a likely spot near a beaver dam. But not having any nibbles or strikes for a while, I started to pull my line out of the water.

Suddenly, I had a huge, strong strike.

For a moment, I panicked because I thought I had accidentally hooked a beaver. But seconds later, a rather large rainbow trout took off from where my line had been and shot across the stream like it was jet propelled. The rainbow darted and dashed about in the water, obviously upset at the surprise of my hook.

I quickly got a bigger hook and put my line back in the water.

But the large rainbow trout would have none of it.

Talk about the fish that got away.”

Sport Fishing Changed in the 1950s

Did you know that sport fishing technology made some significant changes in the 1950s?

Fiberglass rods and synthetic line were made available. Before those changes, if you fished, you were using a cane pole (a large stalk of bamboo) with a string line.

The Territorial Department of Fisheries was created in Alaska in 1949. In 1951, the Department of Fish and Game was created.

Fish Were Jumping Over the Nets

Mary of the Anchorage Memories Club has this special fishing memory.

“My summers were spent at our families commercial fishing village at Point Possession, just across Cook Inlet from Anchorage.

One of the great things about summer in Alaska is all the daylight. That was very helpful when the fish run was on. I remember watching in awe as fish jumped over our net.

My mother Feodoria, two uncles; five brothers; and two sisters all had jobs to do when the fish were running and our nets were full.

When the tide went back out, and the run was over, we had to pick the fish out of our nets. And you had to be careful not to mangle the fish, because each one was worth money. It was a lot of responsibility for us as youngsters.

The sharp teeth of the dog fish would get wrapped around the net. It was also challenging to get the humpies through the small holes of the net. And I remember the silver salmon were so shiny, and wow, the kings were so long.

It wasn’t all work at our commercial fishing site. Summers included taking a break by roasting hot dogs and marshmallows over the beach campfire and listening to Anchorage radio.”

Oh the Memories

As you fished along the banks of your favorite stream or lake in and around Anchorage, it was quiet, relaxing, and fun.

There you were, surrounded by Alaska’s glorious nature in full summer bloom. At times, there was only the sound of the stream as it gently flowed to its destination.

And while catching a fish was the main goal, it didn’t always matter.

Fishing in and around Anchorage is a special experience. There you are, one with nature. But, strangely, still in town.

Your Anchorage fishing memories are precious indeed.

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Mike and Mary also publish Alaska Stories twice each month. It’s FREE.

Take a look at Alaska Stories and discover Alaska.

Connect with Mike and Mary

Ok, time to reel in and pull your fishing line out of the water. But let’s keep the soft glow of those watercolor Anchorage fishing memories near to our hearts.

Do you have a comment? Or a memory to share?

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Until Next Time

Mike and Mary

Anchorage Memories Club

The photo above is how Delaney Park looked when it was an airfield.

The oldest park in the city of Anchorage

wasn’t always a park

In around 1917, the citizens of Anchorage worked for free to clear the land for a firebreak to protect the mostly wooden buildings in the new city of Anchorage.

in the 1923 photo above, the firebreak became the first golf course in Anchorage.

A year later, the citizens of Anchorage cleared the land even more, and it became a 300-foot by 2000-foot landing field for aviation pioneer, Noel Wien.

Note:

The golf course was still in use when planes began landing and taking off from the new airstrip. But golfers were cautioned to “give the right of way, to aircraft.”

Wien’s first flight took place on June 4, 1924. And by the end of that month he had flown 170 passengers from the airstrip.

Wien also started the first Anchorage to Fairbanks flights from that airstrip.

By the way, the airstrip would become Delaney Park, the largest park in Anchorage. It was officially named on September 14 , 1971, after James Delaney, one of the first mayors in Anchorage.

BONUS

Want to know more?

Take a look at Anchorage Delaney Park as an Airstrip and discover.

Yes, You Can Share this Edition

You can share this edition of the Anchorage Memories Club with friends and family.

And when you do, they will be so happy that they will send you on a first-class flight around the world… well, it could happen.

Merrill Field, opened in 1932

Once Merrill Field opened, the Delaney Park Airstrip was no longer needed.

Merrill Field was the first official airport in Anchorage. And, until 1951, it was the only airport in Anchorage.

Construction of Merrill Field began in 1929 and was originally called Anchorage Aviation Field, then the Anchorage Municipal Airport. It was later named after Alaska aviation pioneer Russel Merrill.

During the 1930s, Merrill Field had so much air traffic that it became the most active civilian airport in the entire U.S.

NOTE:

The very first aviation beacon in what was, then, the Territory of Alaska, was located at Merrill Field.

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BONUS

Click on the following link:

Take a look at the History of Merrill Field and enjoy.

DOUBLE BONUS

Click on the following link:

Read about Alaska pioneer aviator Russel Merrill and discover.

Anchorage Airport 1950s

Anchorage International Airport, now called Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, was first opened in 1953 when commercial aircraft were getting too big to land at Merrill Field.

Because of its location in the world, Anchorage International Airport became known as the “Air Crossroads of the World”.

It is now the 3rd busiest cargo airport in the world.

BONUS

Click on the following link:

Read more about The History of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and enjoy.

Lake Hood Seaplane Base

Back in 1938, a channel was built between Lake Spenard and Lake Hood, and a gravel airstrip was built on the South side of lake Hood.

In the 1950s, the combined lakes were developed and enlarged into the Lake Hood Sea Plane Base.

A traffic control tower was added in 1954. Then, in the 1970s, the tower at Anchorage International Airport took over for Lake Hood air traffic.

Lake Hood has an average of 190 flights each day.

In the summer, planes take off and land on the lake using “pontoons.” In the winter, they use snow skis.

BONUS

Want to know more?

Take a look at the Lake Hood Seaplane Base and discover.

Did you fly out of land at any of the above airfields in Anchorage?

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From Our North Stars (that’s you)

From The Matanuska Coal Fields Story (our Alaska Stories publication)

George commented:

“Very interesting article about the coal fields.

The Mention of Cap Lathrop as one of the original investors reminded me that the 4th Avenue Theater was heated with a coal fired furnace.

The maintenance man for the Hill Bldg. where I worked, also maintained the theater and would have to fire it up early enough to get the temperature up before the evening shows. This was in the 60s and 70s. I don't know if and when it might have been converted.”

Randall remembers:

“Many an evening in the 1970s (during the housing crunch) I sat with friends around their heavy metal stoves heated by the coal they collected along the tracks which ran from the mines north of Palmer.

My friends shared living spaces (in quonset huts), serving, as best could, as their homes, work spaces, etc.

Everyone scrambling to find a place to live and a place to keep warm.

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Connect with Mike and Mary

The smiling couple above are Mike and Mary of Anchorage Memories.

This picture was taken at Anchorage International Airport in 1970, as we were getting ready to board our Western Airlines flight at the beginning of our honeymoon. We had been married the day before… Boy, were we ever that young?

OK, please take your seat and buckle up as we prepare for landing.

Did you enjoy this look at Anchorage Airport Memories?

Did you arrive in Anchorage at Merrill Field? Have you ever flown out of Lake Hood?

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Until next time

Mike and Mary

The Anchorage Memories Club