10 Oldest Cities in Alaska

Why do Alaska’s oldest cities captivate our imagination and hold such historical significance?

These ten settlements, each with its unique story, offer a window into the Last Frontier’s rich tapestry of cultures, from indigenous peoples to Russian fur traders and American gold seekers.

As we embark on a journey through time, we’ll explore how these cities have weathered harsh climates, economic booms and busts, and dramatic political changes.

From Sitka’s days as the capital of Russian America to Cordova’s role in the copper industry, these cities reveal the indomitable spirit that has shaped Alaska’s identity.

Prepare to uncover the hidden gems of the North, where history comes alive in every street and building.

10 Oldest Cities in Alaska

1. Sitka

What was Sitka’s role as the former capital of Russian America?

Sitka, originally named New Archangel, served as the capital of Russian America from 1808 to 1867. As the administrative center of Russia’s North American territories, Sitka played a crucial role in the fur trade and became a hub of Russian culture in the New World.

The city boasted impressive architecture, including St. Michael’s Cathedral, which still stands today as a testament to its Russian heritage.

How did the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States affect Sitka?

The Alaska Purchase of 1867 marked a significant turning point for Sitka. The transfer ceremony took place in the city, symbolizing the end of Russian rule and the beginning of American governance.

Sitka initially remained the capital of the Alaska Territory but experienced a period of decline as the seat of government shifted to Juneau in 1906. However, the city adapted by diversifying its economy, focusing on fishing, timber, and later, tourism.

2. Wrangell

Why is Wrangell considered one of the oldest non-Native settlements in Alaska?

Wrangell holds the distinction of being one of Alaska’s oldest non-Native settlements due to its establishment as a Russian trading post in 1834.

The Russians built Fort Dionysius to assert their claim to the region and to engage in the lucrative fur trade. This early European presence laid the foundation for Wrangell’s continuous inhabitation and development over the centuries.

What indigenous cultures have inhabited the Wrangell area throughout history?

The Wrangell area has been home to various indigenous cultures for thousands of years. The Tlingit people, particularly the Stikine Tlingit, have been the primary inhabitants of the region.

Their rich cultural heritage is evident in the numerous petroglyphs and totem poles found in and around Wrangell. The Haida and Tsimshian peoples have also had significant interactions with the area, contributing to its diverse cultural landscape.

3. Kodiak

How did Kodiak’s strategic location influence its early development?

Kodiak’s strategic position on Kodiak Island in the Gulf of Alaska played a pivotal role in its early development. Established in 1792 by Russian fur trader Alexander Baranov, Kodiak became the first capital of Russian Alaska.

Its location provided easy access to rich hunting grounds for sea otters, whose pelts were highly prized. The natural harbor also made Kodiak an ideal base for further exploration and expansion of Russian interests in North America.

What impact did the 1964 Alaska earthquake have on Kodiak?

The 1964 Alaska earthquake, also known as the Good Friday Earthquake, had a devastating impact on Kodiak. The 9.2 magnitude quake triggered a tsunami that inundated the city’s waterfront, destroying much of the downtown area and fishing fleet.

Despite the extensive damage, Kodiak demonstrated remarkable resilience. The city rebuilt, modernizing its infrastructure and diversifying its economy beyond fishing to include tourism and aerospace industries.

4. Unalaska

What is the significance of Unalaska in Aleut history and culture?

Unalaska holds immense significance in Aleut history and culture as one of the oldest continually occupied settlements in Alaska. For thousands of years, it has been a central hub for Aleut people, serving as a meeting place for trade, cultural exchange, and governance.

The Aleut name for the island, “Ounalashka,” means “near the peninsula,” reflecting its strategic location in the Aleutian chain.

How has Unalaska’s economy evolved from fur trading to fishing?

Unalaska’s economy has undergone a remarkable transformation over the centuries. Initially, the Russian-American Company established a trading post here in 1768, focusing on the fur trade. As sea otter populations declined, the economy shifted towards cod fishing in the late 19th century.

Today, Unalaska is home to Dutch Harbor, one of the largest fishing ports in the United States. The city has become a crucial center for the Bering Sea fishing industry, processing millions of pounds of seafood annually.

5. Nome

What role did the Nome Gold Rush play in the city’s rapid growth?

The Nome Gold Rush, which began in 1898, was instrumental in the city’s explosive growth. When gold was discovered on Anvil Creek, thousands of prospectors flocked to the area, transforming Nome from a small Inupiaq settlement into a bustling boomtown almost overnight.

By 1900, Nome’s population had swelled to over 12,000, making it the largest city in Alaska at the time. The gold rush brought infrastructure, businesses, and a diverse population, laying the foundation for Nome’s enduring importance in western Alaska.

How has Nome adapted to its remote location in western Alaska?

Nome’s remote location on the southern Seward Peninsula has necessitated unique adaptations. The city has developed robust air and sea transportation links to overcome its isolation from Alaska’s road system. Nome has diversified its economy beyond gold mining to include government services, tourism, and regional transportation.

The famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which ends in Nome, has become a significant cultural and economic event. Additionally, Nome has invested in renewable energy, including wind power, to reduce its dependence on expensive imported fuel.

6. Skagway

How did the Klondike Gold Rush shape Skagway’s early history?

The Klondike Gold Rush of 1896-1899 was the defining event in Skagway’s early history. As the gateway to the goldfields of the Yukon, Skagway transformed from a small Native settlement into a raucous frontier town of 8,000 people in just a few years.

The city became the starting point for the treacherous journey over the Chilkoot and White Pass trails to the Klondike. This period saw the rise of infamous characters like Soapy Smith, a con man who briefly controlled the town before his dramatic demise.

What efforts have been made to preserve Skagway’s historic downtown?

Recognizing the value of its gold rush heritage, Skagway has made significant efforts to preserve its historic downtown. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, established in 1976, encompasses much of the downtown area and works to restore and maintain historic buildings.

The city has implemented strict zoning laws to maintain the appearance of a turn-of-the-century gold rush town. Many buildings have been restored to their 1897-1908 appearance, creating a living museum that attracts thousands of tourists annually.

7. Juneau

Why was Juneau chosen as the capital of Alaska?

Juneau’s selection as Alaska’s capital was a result of its growing importance in the late 19th century. Founded in 1880 following a major gold discovery, Juneau quickly became a significant mining center.

Its strategic location in the Alaska Panhandle, accessibility by sea, and growing economic importance made it an attractive choice for the territorial capital. In 1906, the government was moved from Sitka to Juneau, solidifying its status as the political center of Alaska.

How has Juneau’s geography influenced its development as a city?

Juneau’s unique geography has profoundly shaped its development. Nestled between Mount Juneau and the Gastineau Channel, the city faces significant constraints on expansion.

This has resulted in a compact urban core and the development of neighborhoods along the narrow coastal strip and up the mountainsides.

The lack of road access to the rest of Alaska has made Juneau heavily dependent on air and sea transportation. However, this isolation has also helped preserve the city’s natural beauty and wildlife, contributing to its appeal as a tourist destination.

8. Ketchikan

What is the significance of Ketchikan’s totem poles and Native Alaskan art?

Ketchikan is renowned for its impressive collection of totem poles and rich tradition of Native Alaskan art. The city is home to the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles, which serve as powerful symbols of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures.

These intricately carved poles tell stories of clan histories, legends, and important events. Ketchikan’s Totem Heritage Center preserves and displays 19th-century totem poles rescued from abandoned village sites, while the Saxman Totem Park showcases both historic and newly carved poles.

How has the cruise ship industry impacted Ketchikan’s economy?

The cruise ship industry has had a transformative effect on Ketchikan’s economy. As one of the primary ports of call for Alaska cruises, Ketchikan welcomes over a million visitors annually. This influx has led to the development of a robust tourism infrastructure, including shops, restaurants, and tour operators.

While providing significant economic benefits, the industry has also presented challenges, such as managing the environmental impact and maintaining the city’s character. Ketchikan has worked to balance tourism development with preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

9. Fairbanks

What factors led to Fairbanks becoming the largest city in Alaska’s interior?

Fairbanks’ rise as the largest city in Alaska’s interior can be attributed to several factors. Founded in 1901 during a gold rush, Fairbanks benefited from its strategic location along the Chena River. The construction of the Alaska Railroad in the 1920s further boosted its growth, making it a crucial transportation hub.

The city’s importance grew during World War II with the establishment of military bases nearby. Fairbanks’ role as an educational center, home to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and its position as a gateway to Alaska’s North Slope oil fields have contributed to its continued growth and economic diversity.

How does Fairbanks cope with extreme temperature variations?

Fairbanks experiences some of the most extreme temperature variations in the United States, with summer highs reaching 90°F (32°C) and winter lows plummeting to -50°F (-45°C). To cope with these extremes, the city has developed specialized infrastructure and practices. Buildings are heavily insulated and often equipped with triple-pane windows.

Many vehicles have engine block heaters to prevent freezing. The city maintains a district heating system that provides steam heat to many downtown buildings. Residents have adapted to the long, dark winters with activities like dog mushing, ice sculpting, and viewing the Northern Lights, turning climatic challenges into cultural assets.

10. Cordova

What was Cordova’s role in the Copper River and Northwestern Railway?

Cordova played a crucial role in the development of the Copper River and Northwestern Railway, a remarkable feat of engineering completed in 1911. The city served as the southern terminus of this 196-mile railway, which was built to transport copper ore from the rich Kennecott mines in the interior to the coast for shipment.

This railway transformed Cordova from a small fishing village into a bustling port town. Although the railway ceased operations in 1938 following the closure of the Kennecott mines, it left an indelible mark on Cordova’s history and development.

How did the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill affect Cordova and its fishing industry?

The 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill had a devastating impact on Cordova and its fishing industry. As one of the closest communities to the spill site in Prince William Sound, Cordova’s economy, which was heavily dependent on commercial fishing, suffered severe and long-lasting effects.

The spill contaminated critical fishing grounds, leading to the collapse of herring populations and long-term damage to salmon fisheries. This environmental disaster not only caused immediate economic hardship but also led to social and psychological impacts on the community.

In the years since, Cordova has worked to diversify its economy and restore its fisheries, demonstrating resilience in the face of this catastrophic event.

Conclusion

What lessons can we glean from the resilience and adaptability of Alaska’s oldest cities?

These ten settlements have not merely survived; they have thrived, evolving from remote outposts to vibrant communities that celebrate their diverse heritage.

From preserving Native Alaskan art in Ketchikan to repurposing gold rush infrastructure in Skagway, these cities demonstrate the delicate balance between honoring the past and embracing the future.

As Alaska faces new challenges in the 21st century, including climate change and economic diversification, the stories of these enduring cities serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration. In the land of the midnight sun, history isn’t just remembered—it’s lived, breathed, and continually reimagined.