Countryaah.com

History of Anchorage Borough, Alaska

by · Published · Updated

Anchorage Borough, the largest and most populous area in Alaska, has a rich and varied history that dates back thousands of years. Originally inhabited by Native Alaskan groups like the Dena’ina, Anchorage has evolved from a remote trading post to the bustling urban center it is today. Founded in 1914 during the construction of the Alaska Railroad, Anchorage quickly grew as a hub for transportation and military operations. Its strategic location along the Cook Inlet made it a vital site for trade, commerce, and military presence, especially during World War II and the Cold War. Today, Anchorage remains a vibrant city with a unique blend of urban and wilderness experiences.

History of Anchorage Borough, Alaska

Origins and Key Historical Events

Indigenous History and Early Exploration

Long before European explorers and settlers arrived, the land now known as Anchorage Borough was inhabited by the Dena’ina people, part of the larger Athabaskan linguistic group. These indigenous peoples lived along the shores of Cook Inlet, relying on fishing, hunting, and gathering for sustenance. The Dena’ina were expert fishers and hunters, using the abundant resources of the region, including salmon, moose, and bear. They created extensive trade networks across Alaska, utilizing natural routes such as rivers and coastline to exchange goods and knowledge.

The first European exploration of the region came in the late 18th century with the arrival of Russian explorers. However, it wasn’t until the mid-1800s, following the purchase of Alaska by the United States in 1867, that Americans began to show significant interest in the area. The U.S. Army established forts in the region, which laid the foundation for future development.

The Founding of Anchorage (1914)

The modern history of Anchorage begins in 1914 when the Alaska Railroad was being constructed. The railroad was critical for the U.S. government’s goal of linking the remote territory of Alaska to the rest of the United States and creating a more direct route for trade, particularly with Asia. Anchorage was chosen as a major stop on the rail line due to its strategic location at the head of Cook Inlet and its access to river routes leading inland.

As the railroad reached Anchorage, a small town began to develop, primarily as a hub for workers and their families. The initial settlement was a tent city, but it quickly expanded with the establishment of businesses, homes, and infrastructure. Anchorage’s population grew steadily as it became the primary transportation center for goods, people, and services in the region.

Military Presence and World War II

Anchorage’s strategic importance grew even further during World War II, when it became a key military installation. Fort Richardson (now Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson) and the Anchorage Naval Operating Base were established to provide support for the war effort, particularly with Aleutian Islands defense and providing support for air missions to Russia and Asia. The construction of military bases and airfields brought thousands of soldiers and civilians to the area, sparking a population boom.

Anchorage’s importance as a transportation hub increased during the Cold War, as it became a critical point for air travel between the United States and Asia. Elmendorf Air Force Base (now part of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson) and other military installations remained key contributors to the area’s economy and development throughout the 20th century.

The Earthquake of 1964

In 1964, Anchorage experienced one of the most devastating events in its history: the Great Alaska Earthquake. This magnitude 9.2 earthquake, the most powerful ever recorded in North America, caused widespread damage throughout Anchorage and the surrounding areas. The quake lasted nearly five minutes and caused massive destruction, including the sinking of large portions of the city’s waterfront, the collapse of buildings, and the shifting of landmasses. The subsequent tsunamis caused additional damage, especially along the coastline.

Despite the devastation, the people of Anchorage demonstrated remarkable resilience. The city rebuilt quickly, and the event also spurred changes in construction codes, infrastructure planning, and emergency preparedness that would make Anchorage more resilient in future crises.

Growth and Modern Development

Following the earthquake, Anchorage continued to grow and modernize. The discovery of oil in Prudhoe Bay in the 1960s and the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline in the 1970s brought an influx of wealth and population to the city. Anchorage became the logistical center for the pipeline’s construction and operation, further cementing its status as Alaska’s economic and transportation hub.

The 1980s and 1990s saw significant economic diversification in Anchorage, with growth in sectors like tourism, healthcare, technology, and education. The city’s economy has since expanded beyond oil and military installations to a more diversified base, though those two sectors remain vital to the region’s prosperity.

Today, Anchorage serves as the economic, cultural, and logistical center of Alaska. With a growing population and a dynamic economy, Anchorage continues to evolve, blending urban development with its natural surroundings, creating a unique environment for both residents and visitors.

Historical Sites in Anchorage Borough

1. Alaska Native Heritage Center

Overview

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is an immersive cultural museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich traditions and histories of the indigenous peoples of Alaska. The center showcases the cultural diversity of Alaska’s native groups, including the Inupiat, Aleut, Tlingit, and Dena’ina. Exhibits include traditional art, artifacts, and interactive displays that highlight the unique cultures, languages, and lifestyles of these communities. The center also features a number of reconstructed native dwellings and outdoor areas that provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s indigenous heritage.

Location:

8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage, AK 99504

Ticket Price:

  • Adults: $20
  • Seniors/Students: $18
  • Children (under 6): Free

Parking Information:

Ample free parking is available on-site.

2. Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center

Overview

The Anchorage Museum is the largest museum in Alaska, offering a comprehensive collection that covers everything from the region’s native cultures to its modern history and artistic achievements. The museum features exhibits on the history of Anchorage, Alaska’s exploration, space exploration, and environmental issues. One of the highlights is the Imaginarium Discovery Center, which features hands-on science exhibits for children and adults alike. The museum also has a planetarium that showcases the night sky and the aurora borealis, a true highlight of the region’s natural beauty.

Location:

625 C Street, Anchorage, AK 99501

Ticket Price:

  • Adults: $20
  • Seniors/Students: $18
  • Children (under 18): Free

Parking Information:

Parking is available for a fee in nearby public lots and a limited number of street parking spaces.

3. Earthquake Park

Overview

Earthquake Park is dedicated to the victims and the history of the 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake. The park is located on a portion of the land that was significantly affected by the quake, with parts of the land subsiding and shifting due to the seismic activity. The park offers educational exhibits that explain the science behind the earthquake and its aftermath, as well as memorials to those who lost their lives during the disaster. The park also provides panoramic views of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains, making it a peaceful place to reflect on the city’s resilience.

Location:

3300 West Northern Lights Blvd., Anchorage, AK 99517

Ticket Price:

  • Free entry

Parking Information:

Free parking is available at the park.

Borough Facts

Geography and Climate

Anchorage Borough is located in south-central Alaska, bordered by Cook Inlet to the west and the Chugach Mountains to the east. The borough encompasses about 1,946 square miles and is home to diverse landscapes, including coastal plains, forests, and rugged mountain terrain. Anchorage’s location provides easy access to both the wilderness and urban amenities, making it a hub for both outdoor recreation and city living.

The climate in Anchorage is subarctic, with cold winters and mild summers. Average winter temperatures range from -10°F to 20°F, while summer temperatures typically range from 55°F to 70°F. Rain is common in the summer months, and snow falls from October to April, with the city receiving about 75 inches of snow annually. The region’s proximity to the ocean moderates the temperature, preventing extreme cold but also leading to frequent storms.

Key Borough Statistics

  • Year Founded: 1914
  • County Seat: Anchorage
  • Population: Approximately 300,000
  • Population Density: 154 people per square mile
  • Largest Cities: Anchorage, Eagle River, Girdwood
  • Major Highways: Alaska Highway, Seward Highway, Glenn Highway
  • Adjacent Boroughs:
    • Matanuska-Susitna Borough (north)
    • Kenai Peninsula Borough (south)
    • Chugach National Forest (east)
    • Cook Inlet (west)

Read more: