https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/anchorage-memories-podcast--6231008enHistoryCopyright Michael R Doughertyhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/7acf7cba72caee940de78a9328bd0b88.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/anchorage-memories-podcast--6231008Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:29:22 +0000Michael R DoughertyMichael R Doughertyfeeds@spreaker.comA treasure chest of narrated anchorage and Alaska memories. and adventures anchoragememories.substack.comcleanepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pioneering-history-of-anchorage-alaska--65190065Lorene Harrison right hereAnchorage’s First NeighborhoodGovernment Hill, 1917Earlier PioneersA man named Thomas Jeter built a cabin on a lake that became known as Jeter Lake (now Spenard Lake). But Jeter was in an area that was not approved for homesteading and had to leave.In around 1911 or 1912, it is thought that Jeter may have moved from his Jeter Lake cabin and built a new one on what is now Government Hill.In 1915, as the grid for downtown Anchorage was being laid out and the first lots were being auctioned off, Anchorage’s first neighborhood, Government Hill, was being built while railroad workers were still living in tents along Ship Creek.From Our North Stars (that’s you)Tom sent us this memory:“I love the Anchorage Memories Club, and remembering the good times in Anchorage in the 1970s when I was a teen. Your story about Stewart's Photo rekindled memories of spending a lot of time in that store. During the Fur Rondy dog races, we'd stop in to buy more film (we took plenty of photos back then!), warm up, look at some jade, and dream about buying fancier cameras. Thanks for doing what you do to remind us of Anchorage history.”Charles had this comment:“I was a Stewart's Photo employee in periods of the 60s, 70s and 80s. You didn't mention their jade mine in Northwest Alaska. They sold jade from the store until Oro's passing.”Don and Maurine remember the Fur Rendezvous:“Thanks Mike and Mary for refreshing our Rondy memories. Yes, I marched and played trombone in the West High band, and the brass got pretty cold.”Connect with Mike and MaryDid you enjoy reading this edition of your Anchorage Memories Club? We did.It’s always interesting when you discover something new about Anchorage.Do you have a comment? You can reach us by replying to this email. Or you can Contact Us to say, “I remember using Snow White Laundry and Cleaners.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAnchorage Memories Club

Get full access to Anchorage Memories Club at www.anchoragememoriesclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:158774358Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyFirst, Hans and Gerry Kirschner tried farming their Spenard property on McRae road… but they were not successful.Then, in 1951, they opened the Garden of Eatin’ and the rest is Anchorage history.It wasn’t much to look at. It was just an old Quonset...Lorene Harrison right hereAnchorage’s First NeighborhoodGovernment Hill, 1917Earlier PioneersA man named Thomas Jeter built a cabin on a lake that became known as Jeter Lake (now Spenard Lake). But Jeter was in an area that was not approved for homesteading and had to leave.In around 1911 or 1912, it is thought that Jeter may have moved from his Jeter Lake cabin and built a new one on what is now Government Hill.In 1915, as the grid for downtown Anchorage was being laid out and the first lots were being auctioned off, Anchorage’s first neighborhood, Government Hill, was being built while railroad workers were still living in tents along Ship Creek.From Our North Stars (that’s you)Tom sent us this memory:“I love the Anchorage Memories Club, and remembering the good times in Anchorage in the 1970s when I was a teen. Your story about Stewart's Photo rekindled memories of spending a lot of time in that store. During the Fur Rondy dog races, we'd stop in to buy more film (we took...]]>343cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-history-of-downtown-anchorage-alaska--65190066The Old Federal Building and discover.What Downtown Business Could the following Be?Built in the 1920s, this building was once home to a furniture store, and even a Funeral Parlor before it became home to a very successful and iconic downtown business.That’s right.In 1957, Club Paris opened in that 1920s building at 417 5th Avenue.And as many people in Anchorage know, and many visitors too, Club Paris is now home to what many say are the best steaks in town.Yes, You Can Share This EditionYour friends and family will love seeing this fun edition of the Anchorage Memories Club… And they will be so happy you shared this with them, that they will give you a certificate for a free lifetime supply of Club Paris steaks… well, it could happen.Thanks for reading and listening to the Anchorage Memories Club! This post is public, so feel free to share it.In the photo above are Oro and Ivan StewartNow let’s talk about Stewart’s Photo Shop, at 531 West 4th AvenueDid you know that Stewart’s is located in one of Anchorage’s oldest buildings?It was originally the Ship Creek Meat Market.Ivan and Ora Stewart (pictured above) began Stewart’s Photo in 1942. But it wasn’t in Anchorage. It was located in Kodiak, Alaska.A year later, the husband and wife team brought their business to Anchorage.If you enjoyed taking pictures, Stewart’s Photo Shop was the place to go. Ivan and Ora were friendly and knew photography.Mike of Anchorage Memories loved going into Stewart’s and used to buy those short 8mm versions of Hollywood movies and cartoons that they carried.What are your memories of Stewart’s Photo Shop?BONUSClick on the following link:Take a look at Stewart’s Photo Shop and scroll down the page to see old photos.Remember Star the Reindeer?In the photo above is a later version of Star the reindeer.Ivan and Ora brought Star to Anchorage in 1962.The female reindeer was given the name “Star” because of a white fur starburst between her eyes.You could sometimes see Star tethered to a parking meter right out in front of Stewart’s, so passers-by and tourists could take pictures with Star.The original Star lived to be 23 years old. In the world of reindeer, that’s about 15 years longer than the average life span. There have since been a number of “Star” reindeer.Ora Stewart passed away in 1986 and left Albert Whitehead in charge of Star.Kimball’s Dry Goods, 500 and 504 West 5th AvenueThink about this:Kimball’s is the only commercial building at its original location since the founding of Anchorage.Irving J. Kimball and his wife Della first came to Anchorage during its “Tent City” days in 1915.During the Anchorage town site auction, held on July 10, 1915, Irving Kimball purchased Lot 1, Block 51 (500 and 504 West Fifth Street) for 500 dollars. He then built Kimball’s Dry Goods.The store opened in November 1915 and sold general merchandise, hardware, and groceries.Following the passing of Irving and Della, their daughter, Decema Kimball Andresen Slawson operated the store until she passed away in 2002.In the later years, the store sold sewing supplies to the Bush communities by mail order. That service represented about half of the Kimball Dry Goods business at that time.In all, Kimball’s Dry Goods was in business for 87 years.Have you ever shopped or visited Kimball’s?From Our North Stars (that’s you)At the Anchorage Memories Club, we love to hear from our members.Vivien sent this:“My sister sent me the Anchorage Memories Club a few weeks ago.And I want to thank you for the connection to my past. I grew up in Anchorage and left for college in 1967. Now, my sister lives in Los Angeles and I live in Israel.My last visit to Anchorage was for a West high school class reunion over 20 years ago.So thanks for putting all this together. Shalom.”Thank you so much for reaching out to us here at the Anchorage Memories Club, Vivien, and for sharing at least a little of your story. Our best to you and your sister.Connect with Mike and MaryIt's a pleasure to hear from people all over the world who are now reading and listening to the Anchorage Memories ClubDo you have a comment, you can reach us by replying to this email. Or, do you want to say “hello Mike and Mary”?It’s super easy to contact us.Go to Contact Us and say “hey” right now.Until next timeMike & MaryAnchorage Memories Club

Get full access to Anchorage Memories Club at www.anchoragememoriesclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:158327757Tue, 04 Mar 2025 13:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyThe Old Federal Building was Completed in 1941You saw this historic building every time you went to see a movie at the 4th Avenue Theatre or the Empress Theatre in downtown Anchorage.Located right across the street from the 4th Avenue Theater, the old...The Old Federal Building and discover.What Downtown Business Could the following Be?Built in the 1920s, this building was once home to a furniture store, and even a Funeral Parlor before it became home to a very successful and iconic downtown business.That’s right.In 1957, Club Paris opened in that 1920s building at 417 5th Avenue.And as many people in Anchorage know, and many visitors too, Club Paris is now home to what many say are the best steaks in town.Yes, You Can Share This EditionYour friends and family will love seeing this fun edition of the Anchorage Memories Club… And they will be so happy you shared this with them, that they will give you a certificate for a free lifetime supply of Club Paris steaks… well, it could happen.Thanks for reading and listening to the Anchorage Memories Club! This post is public, so feel free to share it.In the photo above are Oro and Ivan StewartNow let’s talk about Stewart’s Photo Shop, at 531 West 4th AvenueDid you know that Stewart’s is located in one of Anchorage’s oldest buildings?It was originally the Ship Creek Meat Market.Ivan and Ora Stewart (pictured above) began Stewart’s Photo in 1942. But it wasn’t in Anchorage. It was located in Kodiak, Alaska.A year later, the husband and wife team brought their business to Anchorage.If you enjoyed taking pictures, Stewart’s Photo Shop was the place to go. Ivan and Ora were friendly and knew photography.Mike of Anchorage Memories loved going into Stewart’s and used to buy those short 8mm versions of Hollywood movies and cartoons that they carried.What are your memories of Stewart’s Photo Shop?BONUSClick on the following link:Take a look at Stewart’s Photo Shop and scroll down the page to see old photos.Remember Star the Reindeer?In the photo above is a later version of Star the reindeer.Ivan and Ora brought Star to Anchorage in 1962.The female reindeer was given the name “Star” because of a white fur starburst between her eyes.You could sometimes see Star tethered to a parking meter right out in front of Stewart’s, so passers-by and tourists could take pictures with Star.The original Star lived to be 23 years old. In the world of reindeer, that’s about 15 years longer than the average life span. There have since been a number of “Star” reindeer.Ora Stewart passed away in 1986 and left Albert Whitehead in charge of Star.Kimball’s Dry Goods, 500 and 504 West 5th AvenueThink about this:Kimball’s is the only commercial building at its original location since the founding of Anchorage.Irving J. Kimball and his wife Della first came to Anchorage during its “Tent City” days in 1915.During the Anchorage town site auction, held on July 10, 1915, Irving Kimball purchased Lot 1, Block 51...]]>390cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-sears-mall-in-anchorage--65190067A Fascinating Treasure Chest of Coke Show Radio Memories and remember.Larry Carr Comes to AnchoragePictured above is Larry CarrIn 1947, Larry Carr, the man who would build Anchorage’s first mall, arrived in Anchorage.His first day job was working for the Alaska Railroad. But in the evening he worked at a grocery store called Thrifty Mart. His time there, paved the way for what was yet to come.Carr’s on 13th and GambellLater, in 1950, at age 21, Larry Carr found an old Quonset Hut at 13th and Gambell, and he decided to go into the grocery business with his brother, Bernard Joseph Carr.But the Quonset Hut turned out to be a challenge.The walls of the Quonset Hut were so thin, that one winter morning they found everything in the store had frozen overnight. What’s a Quonset Hut, You AskPhoto courtesy of John ParkerIn the 1949 picture above, this Quonset Hut was the first building on the corner of Spenard Road and Fireweed. It was the Spenard Post Office and Parker’s Store.Now imagine this Quonset Hut as Larry Carr’s first Anchorage grocery store.More Carr’s Grocery Store Locations FollowedEven with all the challenges, including a store full of frozen food on a cold Alaska winter morning, the first Carrs food store was a success. So they opened more locations.Yes, You Can Share This EditionAre your friends and family curious about a far off place called Anchorage, Alaska?You’ll be a superhero, when you share this edition of the Anchorage Memories Club. They will be so happy, they will send you on a two-week vacation to the world’s most beautiful beach. Trunk Bay on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Well, it could happen.Thanks for reading and listening to the Anchorage Memories Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.A 17.6 Acre Site Just 1.5 Miles from Downtown AnchorageAnchorage was growing up, and Larry Carr had a vision.He was going to build the first Mall in Anchorage. And it was exciting. On January 31, 1968, the Sears Mall, the first ever in Anchorage, opened its doors.Inside, the towns folk of Anchorage discovered a comfortable atmosphere and what was built to resemble a downtown sidewalk, with shops on either side.Do you remember?When the mall first opened, it featured Carr’s Quality Foodcenter as an anchor store on one end, with Sears on the other.Mall stores included, Russell Stover Candies, a Wells Fargo Bank, Sheffield Cafeteria and Pub, and a Ben Franklin Variety Store. There was also Andy’s Carmel Corn (a favorite of our family), Grandma’s Closet, the Book Cache, and Sears had a café. Some of these might have been added later.In addition, there was a 10 cent mechanical horsey ride for kids.And the indoor setting was just perfect for shoppers from all over Alaska, especially during those long, cold winters.Pictured above is the Book Cache in the Sears Mall in Anchorage.What are your memories of the Sears Mall? What were your favorite stores and restaurants in the Sears mall?BONUSYou can read more about Larry Carr and the History of Carr-Gottstein Foods right now.Just for FunPhoto above by Jim ZollerDo you remember?This “Around the World” amphibian visited Anchorage in 1957.Do you have pictures of Anchorage that you would like to share?Did you know that you can also join our free, Alaska Stories and enjoy Alaska?From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our look at Anchorage, Alaska’s World Famous, Pioneering, Fur Rendezvous Winter Carnival.Teresa is happy:“I would like to say, THANK YOU for creating the Anchorage Memories Club. I was born and raised in Anchorage, and the Anchorage Memories Club brings such joy to my soul! I just had to say, THANK YOU to you both!”A Note from Mike and Mary:Teresa - Thank you for your kind words. You are what the Anchorage Memories Club is all about.Nelson made this comment:“Thank you for keeping these memories alive!Our family was the first Colombian family to reside in Anchorage.”Loren remembers:“I came to Alaska in 1956, in the back of a “51” chevy from Illinois, with two brothers and a sister. 12 days on the road, and numerous flat tires. Fireweed Lane was the city limits then. You could go downtown, and you knew just about everybody you saw.”Mona has a question:“I don't remember the Fur Rendezvous being called Rondy or Fur Rondy. I only remember hearing about the Fur Rendezvous. Is “Rondy” a new thing? I lived in Anchorage from 1962 to 1974.”Connect with Mike and MaryWere you in Anchorage before the Sears Mall? Were you there when they first opened the Sears Mall? What were your favorite stores?Ok, Mike and Mary had three favorites. Andie’s Carmel Corn, Grandma’s Closet and the Sears Mall Book Cache.Do you have a comment? We love hearing from our North Stars (that’s you). You can reach us by replying to this email. Or, you can Contact Us to say, “The Sears Mall in Anchorage, Alaska was a great place to hang out.”Until next timeMike and MaryAnchorage Memories ClubJoin for FREE, and enjoy the memories of two Alaskans.Anchorage Memories Club is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Get full access to Anchorage Memories Club at www.anchoragememoriesclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:156738110Tue, 11 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyWhat’s a Mall?When Mike of the Anchorage Memories Club was 15 years old, his family made a trip from Anchorage to San Antonio, Texas to visit relatives. One day, Mike’s aunt said, “how would y'all (that’s Texan for “you all”) like to go to the...A Fascinating Treasure Chest of Coke Show Radio Memories and remember.Larry Carr Comes to AnchoragePictured above is Larry CarrIn 1947, Larry Carr, the man who would build Anchorage’s first mall, arrived in Anchorage.His first day job was working for the Alaska Railroad. But in the evening he worked at a grocery store called Thrifty Mart. His time there, paved the way for what was yet to come.Carr’s on 13th and GambellLater, in 1950, at age 21, Larry Carr found an old Quonset Hut at 13th and Gambell, and he decided to go into the grocery business with his brother, Bernard Joseph Carr.But the Quonset Hut turned out to be a challenge.The walls of the Quonset Hut were so thin, that one winter morning they found everything in the store had frozen overnight. What’s a Quonset Hut, You AskPhoto courtesy of John ParkerIn the 1949 picture above, this Quonset Hut was the first building on the corner of Spenard Road and Fireweed. It was the Spenard Post Office and Parker’s Store.Now imagine this Quonset Hut as Larry Carr’s first Anchorage grocery store.More Carr’s Grocery Store Locations FollowedEven with all the challenges, including a store full of frozen food on a cold Alaska winter morning, the first Carrs food store was a success. So they opened more locations.Yes, You Can Share This EditionAre your friends and family curious about a far off place called Anchorage, Alaska?You’ll be a superhero, when you share this edition of the Anchorage Memories Club. They will be so happy, they will send you on a two-week vacation to the world’s most beautiful beach. Trunk Bay on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Well, it could happen.Thanks for reading and listening to the Anchorage Memories Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.A 17.6 Acre Site Just 1.5 Miles from Downtown AnchorageAnchorage was growing up, and Larry Carr had a vision.He was going to build the first Mall in Anchorage. And it was exciting. On January 31, 1968, the Sears Mall, the first ever in Anchorage, opened its doors.Inside, the towns folk of Anchorage discovered a comfortable atmosphere and what was built to resemble a downtown sidewalk, with shops on either side.Do you remember?When the mall first opened, it featured Carr’s Quality Foodcenter as an anchor store on one end, with Sears on the other.Mall stores included, Russell Stover Candies, a Wells Fargo Bank, Sheffield Cafeteria and Pub, and a Ben Franklin Variety Store. There was also Andy’s Carmel Corn (a favorite of our family), Grandma’s Closet, the Book Cache, and Sears had a café. Some of these might have been added later.In addition, there was a 10 cent mechanical horsey ride for kids.And the indoor setting was just perfect for shoppers from all over Alaska,...]]>301cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/anchorage-alaska-s-world-famous-pioneering-fur-rendezvous-winter-carnival--64187253My Mom Got Put in the Rondy Jail and enjoy.Yes, You Can Share This EditionYour friends and family will get “Rondy Fever” when they see all the fun that Anchorage’s Fur Rendezvous brings every year. So share the fun.Thanks for reading the Anchorage Memories Club! This post is public, so feel free to share it.1946In 1946, 3 mushers competed in the first Alaska Championship Sled Dog Races at the Park Strip. The winner was Earl Norris (pictured above).1950The Blanket Toss was added in 1950. Are you in this crowd? The year of this photo isn’t known.Native Alaskans from Nome and Diomede Islands came to Anchorage to demonstrate the Blanket Toss. And judging by the crowd in the picture above, it was a hit.19536 women competed in the first Women’s Alaska Championship Sled Dog Race.1958Then in 1958, a curling tournament was played on 4th Avenue. Always fun to watch.1960The photo above is 1968Golden Wheel Amusements added Carnival rides to the Fur Rendezvous in 1960.Hardy Alaska souls don’t mind braving freezing temperatures for a ride on the Ferris Wheel, or to snack on a corn dog.What was your favorite Rondy Carnival ride? In 1968, the carnival was located overlooking the mouth of Ship Creek, where Anchorage got its start as a tent city back in 1915.Your Favorite Rondy Food TreatsHaving all that Rondy fun made you good and hungry for a treat.Mary, of Anchorage Memories, always looked forward to her special Fur Rendezvous snack.BONUSTake a look at Mary’s story about Fur Rondy Corn Dogs and enjoy.Fur Rendezvous Parade MemoriesThe photo above is 1965 (ish). From the Brad Smith CollectionYes, you were cold, but you didn’t care. The Fur Rondy parade was all for fun as it made its way down 4th Avenue to the delight of all.Did You March in the Rondy Parade?It was cold, but it was fun, and the bands from Anchorage schools also participated.Mary of Anchorage Memories marched in the parade as part of the Anchorage Clown Club.BONUSMike, of Anchorage memories, played trumpet in the East High band. Marching on slippery ice… or being behind horses, had its special challenges.Take a look at Marching in the Fur Rondy Parade and enjoy.If you’re new to the Anchorage Memories Club, you’ll also love Alaska Stories.Take a look at our Alaska Stories email delivered publication as well.Did You Know?Because of World War II, the Fur Rendezvous was cancelled from 1942 to 1945.So, a very community minded lady named Lorene Harrison (the owner of the Hat Box), put together a celebration called “Bonanza Days” which was presented at the log cabin USO building to a standing-room-only crowd. Do You Remember Some of These Folks?When You were home, (or peeking at a TV in a downtown store window) sipping a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, and watching the World Championship Sled Dog Races, the folks at KENI-TV (now KTUU) and KENI radio were braving the cold to bring you all the Rondy fun.Left to right is:Al Bramstedt, news anchor Ty Clark, camera operator Jim Balog, Bill Stewart and your Master of Ceremonies Orville Lake.Do You Remember This Theme Song?It was played on KENI-TV channel 2 at the beginning and end of their Fur Rendezvous TV coverage.Click on the following link to here De Selvera’s “Sleigh-Ride in Alaska” from 1959.Contact Mike and MaryGreat memories!Do you have a comment, or just want to use the word “mush”? You can easily contact us by replying to this email, or you can Contact Us to say “mush”.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAnchorage Memories ClubJoin for FREE, and enjoy the memories of two Alaskans.Anchorage Memories Club is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Get full access to Anchorage Memories Club at www.anchoragememoriesclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:156306942Tue, 04 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyHello, Mike and Mary here. Thank you for letting us into your inbox. If you are a new subscriber, welcome!Every issue of the Anchorage Memories Club is a treasure chest of memories that will bring back your long forgotten memories.For access to the...My Mom Got Put in the Rondy Jail and enjoy.Yes, You Can Share This EditionYour friends and family will get “Rondy Fever” when they see all the fun that Anchorage’s Fur Rendezvous brings every year. So share the fun.Thanks for reading the Anchorage Memories Club! This post is public, so feel free to share it.1946In 1946, 3 mushers competed in the first Alaska Championship Sled Dog Races at the Park Strip. The winner was Earl Norris (pictured above).1950The Blanket Toss was added in 1950. Are you in this crowd? The year of this photo isn’t known.Native Alaskans from Nome and Diomede Islands came to Anchorage to demonstrate the Blanket Toss. And judging by the crowd in the picture above, it was a hit.19536 women competed in the first Women’s Alaska Championship Sled Dog Race.1958Then in 1958, a curling tournament was played on 4th Avenue. Always fun to watch.1960The photo above is 1968Golden Wheel Amusements added Carnival rides to the Fur Rendezvous in 1960.Hardy Alaska souls don’t mind braving freezing temperatures for a ride on the Ferris Wheel, or to snack on a corn dog.What was your favorite Rondy Carnival ride? In 1968, the carnival was located overlooking the mouth of Ship Creek, where Anchorage got its start as a tent city back in 1915.Your Favorite Rondy Food TreatsHaving all that Rondy fun made you good and hungry for a treat.Mary, of Anchorage Memories, always looked forward to her special Fur Rendezvous snack.BONUSTake a look at Mary’s story about Fur Rondy Corn Dogs and enjoy.Fur Rendezvous Parade MemoriesThe photo above is 1965 (ish). From the Brad Smith CollectionYes, you were cold, but you didn’t care. The Fur Rondy parade was all for fun as it made its way down 4th Avenue to the delight of all.Did You March in the Rondy Parade?It was cold, but it was fun, and the bands from Anchorage schools also participated.Mary of Anchorage Memories marched in the parade as part of the Anchorage Clown Club.BONUSMike, of Anchorage memories, played trumpet in the East...]]>322cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/remarkable-pioneering-alaska-aviator-russel-merrill--63686632Russel Hyde Merrill and his love of aviation.What Became of the Fire Break?The photo above shows the park on a summer dayThe firebreak, first created in 1923, is now called the Delaney Park Strip. Delaney Park, was named after Anchorage, Alaska Mayor, James Delaney, who served from 1929 to 1932.At either 11 or 14 blocks long, it’s the largest city park in Anchorage. There is no longer a golf course in the park, and planes no longer land there.From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our Alaska State Fair edition.Randall has this memory:“I have many memories of the Knik Bridge waiting our turn to cross the Knik hoping the break-up of Lake George wouldn't trap us on the north side of the bridge. Great memories of the ditches filled to overflowing with bright red salmon during spawning season. The salmon used the ditch diversions to continue their run.”The photo above is courtesy of George“There was a Chugiak fair in 1957 that had a stuffed moose you could sit on and have your picture taken.”Connect with Mike and Mary of Alaska StoriesCan you imagine the many adventures of those early Anchorage aviators?Mike and Mary hope you enjoyed this look at the legendary Anchorage pilot, Russel Merrill.Do you have a comment? Just reply to this email. Or you can Contact Us to tell us all about how you, “flew into (*or out of) Merrill Field”.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

Get full access to Alaska Stories at www.alaska-stories.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:154762183Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyIn the photo above is Russel Hyde MerrillOur story begins in Anchorage in 1923.Because of a thick forest on the south side of Anchorage, Alaska, there was a concern that if a fire started in the woods, the new town would be destroyed.With that in...373cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/alaska-s-kennecott-copper-mines-one-of-the-greatest-ever--63600416Kennecott Mines Story and enjoy.From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our look at the Hillside StarRozanne had this to say:“Thank you so much.I spent most of my years living at Sand Lake, moving to "homestead" in the 50's. One day, there was a star, from then on, I looked for her each season. Being born here before Statehood, I am privileged to experience a wonderful place to grow up, and return to.”Michael offered this comment:“Thank you for sharing the history of the Star... I didn't know that!”Connect with Mike and MaryIt’s time to put away your pick and shovel.We know… you were just one scoop away from finding the Mother lode.Did you enjoy learning about Alaska’s Kennecott Copper Mines?We love to hear from our North Stars (that’s you). Do you have a comment? Just reply to this email. Or you can Contact Us to say, “I’ve been to the Kennecott Mines”.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

Get full access to Alaska Stories at www.alaska-stories.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:154271377Tue, 07 Jan 2025 13:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyIt all began in the summer of 1900.“Tarantula” Jack Smith and Clarence Warner were prospecting along the east edge of the Kennicott Glacier. They thought the large green patches on the mountain in front of them were grass. But it was too high up the...Kennecott Mines Story and enjoy.From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our look at the Hillside StarRozanne had this to say:“Thank you so much.I spent most of my years living at Sand Lake, moving to "homestead" in the 50's. One day, there was a star, from then on, I looked for her each season. Being born here before Statehood, I am privileged to experience a wonderful place to grow up, and return to.”Michael offered this comment:“Thank you for sharing the history of the Star... I didn't know that!”Connect with Mike and MaryIt’s time to put away your pick and shovel.We know… you were just one scoop away from finding the Mother lode.Did you enjoy learning about Alaska’s Kennecott Copper Mines?We...]]>217cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bettles-alaska-and-a-pioneering-man-from-montana--63435650Gordon Bettles: Koyukuk Pioneer and discover.So, Where is Bettles Today?In the photo above is the new Bettles on the right, with Evansville on the left. All on the banks of the Koyukuk River.The residents of the original Bettles have moved the community about five miles east to Evansville because the military had left an abandoned airfield at that location.The original, “Old” Bettles became a ghost town. The “New” Bettles was incorporated in 1985.The new Bettles is located on the Koyukuk River, 20 miles south of the Arctic National Park Reserve. It’s on the Dalton Highway as a winter only ice road that crosses the Jim River. Bettles is 35 miles north of the Arctic Circle, just south of the Brooks Range.BONUSEnjoy this video about Old BettlesAlaska Short StoriesFrom the “Tsunami” story:“We were near the nonexistent entrance of the boat harbor trying to lasso another boat when the northeastern wave hit us and drove us sideways into the southwestern wave, and the combination of the two forces generated a giant whirlpool.We were now going backwards with the main engine in full forward position in this swirling vortex with about a ten-degree list. The skipper told me to go down and drive that wedge back into the throttle, which I did in record time. The skipper had the wheel hard over to no avail.There was a red house on the hill just north of the city dock that had been washed from its foundation and was floating along with all the other flotsam, only this house had somehow managed to enter the swirling vortex inside the Fortress.It started to break up and disappeared right before our eyes. We could look right down into this black hole.”Read the 1964 Alaska Earthquake Tsunami short storyConnect with Mike and MaryThis Alaska Stories look at Gordon C. Bettles, and Bettles, Alaska, was a surprising look at the history of Alaska, and the beginning of a town.Do you have a comment about this story? Just reply to this email. Or you can Contact Us to say, “I’ve been to Bettles”. Mike and Mary love to hear from our North Stars (that’s you).Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

Get full access to Alaska Stories at www.alaska-stories.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:153454173Sun, 22 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyIn the photo above is the old Bettles Trading Post on the Koyukuk riverDriven by gold fever, you’re constantly looking for the next big strike.The Klondike gave up a lot of gold, but quickly became played out. So many stampeders were looking for...Gordon Bettles: Koyukuk Pioneer and discover.So, Where is Bettles Today?In the photo above is the new Bettles on the right, with Evansville on the left. All on the banks of the Koyukuk River.The residents of the original Bettles have moved the community about five miles east to Evansville because the military had left an abandoned airfield at that location.The original, “Old” Bettles became a ghost town. The “New” Bettles was incorporated in 1985.The new Bettles is located on the Koyukuk River, 20 miles south of the Arctic National Park Reserve. It’s on the Dalton Highway as a winter only ice road that crosses the Jim River. Bettles is 35 miles north of the Arctic Circle, just south of the Brooks Range.BONUSEnjoy this video about Old BettlesAlaska Short StoriesFrom the “Tsunami” story:“We were near the nonexistent entrance of the boat harbor trying to lasso another boat when the northeastern wave hit us and drove us sideways into the southwestern wave, and the combination of the two forces generated a giant whirlpool.We were now going backwards with the main engine in full forward position in this swirling vortex with about a ten-degree list. The skipper told me to go down and drive that wedge back into the throttle, which I did in record time. The skipper had the wheel hard over to no avail.There was a red house on the hill just north of the city dock that had been washed from its foundation and was floating along with all the other flotsam, only this house had somehow managed to enter the swirling vortex inside the Fortress.It started to break up and disappeared right before our eyes. We could...]]>190cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/see-the-beautiful-site-summit-star-a-surprise-gift-to-anchorage-alaska--63323994Friends of Site Summit and discover.Visit Anchorage Memories.comYou’ll discover a treasure chest of memories, including stories, pictures, and videos.Take a look at Anchorage Memories and enjoy.Connect with Mike and MaryThis is one of those great Alaska Stories that warm your heart.If you live in Anchorage, or visited during the holidays, what was your reaction, the first time you saw the Site Summit Star?Send us your comment by replying to this email, or you can Contact Us right now to say, “I love the Site Summit Star”. Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

Get full access to Alaska Stories at www.alaska-stories.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:153123308Sun, 15 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyAlaska’s mountains are tall, commanding, and majestic.But mount Gordon Lyon in the Chugach mountains, overlooking Alaska’s largest city, has become special to the citizens of Anchorage.Illuminated during those long winter nights, the “Site Summit...Friends of Site Summit and discover.Visit Anchorage Memories.comYou’ll discover a treasure chest of memories, including stories, pictures, and videos.Take a look at Anchorage Memories and enjoy.Connect with Mike and MaryThis is one of those great Alaska Stories that warm your heart.If you live in Anchorage, or visited during the holidays, what was your reaction, the first time you saw the Site Summit Star?Send us your comment by replying to this email, or you can Contact Us right now to say, “I love the Site Summit Star”. Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

Get full access to Alaska Stories at www.alaska-stories.com/subscribe]]>180cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-the-shrewd-ruthless-man-who-founded-fairbanks-alaska--63220292Fairbanks, Alaska and discover.From our North Stars (that’s you)From “This is the Remarkable Z.J. Loussac” editionBearpawz made this observation:“Sounds like ZJ Loissac was a really good guy.. I do like the design of the midtown library. The old city hall building downtown is supposed to turn into a new branch eventually, but I'm not sure what the timeline on that is.”Wandal remembers:“This “Loussac Edition” brought back many fond memories. My parents arrived in Anchorage with me and my sister in 1952 when I was 6 years old and not much of a reader. Then I discovered the Loussac Library and read Andre Norton’s “Starman’s Son”. From then on, there was no looking back and the library became my favorite hangout. By late grade school I was checking out 12 books per week (the limit) and in Jr High (O D Clark) made a book report on The World Book Encyclopedia. Must be inheritable as my kids are now ‘addicted to books’. Thanks you ZJ”And Irene said this:“I loved that library. In 1955 I was 11 years old and that library was fascinating. Thanks for the wonderful memories.”Larry added this:“I remember going downstairs to the Assembly meetings with Mayor George Sullivan around 1971-1972.”Contact Mike and MaryDid you enjoy learning about E.T. Barnette and the founding of Fairbanks?You can easily send us a comment by replying to this email. And you can even Contact Us us to say, “hey, I love the Alaska Stories podcast.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

Get full access to Alaska Stories at www.alaska-stories.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:152771726Sun, 08 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyMeet Elbridge Truman “E.T.” Barnette, (1863–1933)The man who founded Fairbanks.He was a riverboat captain, a banker, and a swindler.Gold FeverWhen the steamship Portland arrived at the West Coast with its one ton of gold from the Alaska gold strike,...Fairbanks, Alaska and discover.From our North Stars (that’s you)From “This is the Remarkable Z.J. Loussac” editionBearpawz made this observation:“Sounds like ZJ Loissac was a really good guy.. I do like the design of the midtown library. The old city hall building downtown is supposed to turn into a new branch eventually, but I'm not sure what the timeline on that is.”Wandal remembers:“This...]]>255cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fascinating-story-of-the-matanuska-coal-fields--63091207Alaska Mining Hall of Fame and discover.DOUBLE BONUSDo you remember the 1966 musical hit by Lee Dorsey, “Workin in a Coal Mine”?Click on the following link and enjoy the memory.Alaska FactPalmer was just 40 miles south of the Evan Jones coal mine.But did you know that on July 6, 1917, when the Palmer Post Office was first opened, it wasn’t called Palmer, Alaska?At that time, the small community was called “Warten”, Alaska.Anchorage Memories.comYou’ll quickly discover a treasure chest filled with pictures, stories and wonderful memories.Take a look at Anchorage Memories.com and enjoy.Connect with Mike and MaryHave you ever filled up a bucket from a coal bin? Mike’s family spent time on a farm near Wasilla, Alaska, and it was young Mike’s job to fetch coal for the stove.Did you enjoy this edition of Alaska Stories?We’d love to read your comments. To connect with us, just reply to this email. Or you can reach us right here to say, “I’ve been workin in a coal mine, goin on down down”. Remember that song?Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

Get full access to Alaska Stories at www.alaska-stories.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:152364893Sun, 01 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyIn the photo above is the Evan Jones Coal Mine at the top of a 6 percent grade up from Sutton on the Matanuska River.But the story of coal in Alaska doesn’t start with the Evan Jones mine.The subject of the oil painting above is Captain Nathaniel...Alaska Mining Hall of Fame and discover.DOUBLE BONUSDo you remember the 1966 musical hit by Lee Dorsey, “Workin in a Coal Mine”?Click on the following link and enjoy the memory.Alaska FactPalmer was just 40 miles south of the Evan Jones coal mine.But did you know that on July 6, 1917, when the Palmer Post Office was first opened, it wasn’t called Palmer, Alaska?At that time, the small community was called “Warten”, Alaska.Anchorage Memories.comYou’ll quickly discover a treasure chest filled with pictures, stories and wonderful memories.Take a look at 284cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/this-is-the-remarkable-z-j-loussac--62773588ZJ Loussac Biography and enjoy.Mayor of AnchorageDid you know that Loussac was elected Mayor of Anchorage for three one-year terms from 1948 to 1951?Ada Harper – LoussacIn 1949, at the age of 66, Zachariah, a lifelong bachelor, married Ada Harper, who ran the Colonial Dress Shop in Anchorage.Would You Like to Know More?Our look at Zachariah Loussac is a brief one, but you can read lots more by clicking on the link below.Read more about ZJ Loussac and enjoy.Imagine, Remember and AppreciateThe story of Zachariah Loussac reminds us of just how dedicated those early Anchorage pioneers were. They forged what would become the city of Anchorage from the humble banks of Ship Creek.Like you may have, Mary and I spent many an afternoon in the downtown Loussac Library.And while I was in high school and I became interested in a career in motion pictures and television, I spent hours reading every book I could find on the subject in the downtown Loussac Library… So, I guess I got my start in that library.Thank you, ZJ Loussac.A Historic Anchorage Place Comes to an EndThe Loussac Library on 5th and F Street was demolished in 1981 to make way for the William A Egan Civic and Convention Center.In 1986, a new four-story ZJ Loussac Public Library was opened in midtown.Times change, but thank you ZJ Loussac for the wonderful Anchorage memories.From Our North Stars (that’s you)From “Did You Watch These Popular Anchorage, Alaska Kid's TV Shows?”Christine remembers:“I was on HiJinks a couple of times as a child.”Mary shared this Anchorage childhood memory:“We were so fortunate in Anchorage to have such fun shows for us children. We would go ice skating and sledding during the winter and come in for our cocoa and warm up while watching all those fun shows.”And Eric said:“Great memories!”Connect with Mike and MaryDid this edition of Alaska Stories make you want to go visit your local library?Mary and I are friends of our local library, and our children and grandchildren love libraries. And we have ZJ Loussac to thank.Don’t Be ShyDo you have a comment, suggestion for a future edition of Alaska Stories, or would you just like to say “Hello!”… Not too loud now… the librarian will “shush” us.You can reach us by replying to this email, or you can Contact Us to say, “I loved the Loussac Library.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska Stories

Get full access to Alaska Stories at www.alaskavipclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:151755007Sun, 17 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyFrom 1954 to 1985, Anchorage kids and adults enjoyed spending time in the downtown Loussac Library at 5th and F streets. The picture above is from 1955.So who was this Loussac fellow?His full name was Zadrich Joshua Loussac, also known as Zachary or...ZJ Loussac Biography and enjoy.Mayor of AnchorageDid you know that Loussac was elected Mayor of Anchorage for three one-year terms from 1948 to 1951?Ada Harper – LoussacIn 1949, at the age of 66, Zachariah, a lifelong bachelor, married Ada Harper, who ran the Colonial Dress Shop in Anchorage.Would You Like to Know More?Our look at Zachariah Loussac is a brief one, but you can read lots more by clicking on the link below.Read more about ZJ Loussac and enjoy.Imagine, Remember and AppreciateThe story of Zachariah Loussac reminds us of just how dedicated those early Anchorage pioneers were. They forged what would become the city of Anchorage from the humble banks of Ship Creek.Like you may have, Mary and I spent many an afternoon in the downtown Loussac...]]>309cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/did-you-watch-these-popular-anchorage-alaska-kid-s-tv-shows--62679969The Mother Moose Show and enjoy.Yes, You Can Share this EditionIt’s so easy to share all these fun memories with friends and family. And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will buy you a brand-new car of your choice… well, it could happen.Click on the following link:Thank you for reading and listening to the Alaska VIP Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.HiJinks with Frank FeemanThere isn’t much out there about this Anchorage kid’s TV show, but maybe you remember it… I do.It was called “HiJinks” and the man in front of the camera in the picture above is the host, Frank Feeman.Remember all the bow ties?Frank Feeman would wear a little tiny bow tie one day, then the next day he would have a huge bow tie, then one with flashing lights… and on and on. Even the kids on the show sported bow ties.HiJinks actually got started on KFIA-TV channel 2 which later became KENI-TV and is now KTUU channel 2.The show was a lot of fun. Do you remember HiJinks? Were you on the show? Tell us about it.The Buckaroos ShowYes, the wild west came to Anchorage kid’s TV.Sheriff John welcomed us every weekday in the 1960s, with the Buckaroos Show on KTVA channel 11, with games, puppets, and cartoons. In the later years of the show, there was also a character named Deputy Dick and a silly jailhouse.BONUSAfter the 1964 earthquake, KTVA continued The Buckaroo show, but they could no longer have children in the studio because of the earthquake damage to the building.Sheriff John had left the show just before the earthquake, so Deputy Dick took over as the host for a short time.DOUBLE BONUSThe Buckaroos set was later used as the cabin in the spruce on the Mother Moose Show,Take a look at this fun story “KTVA’s Buckaroo Show and the 64’ Earthquake” and remember.“Through the Magic Window”with Ethel OliverThe Alaska VIP Club, researched and looked all over for a picture, but the only one we found was far too small.Ethel Oliver started the first Kindergarten in Anchorage back in 1939.And, she hosted “Through the Magic Window” from 1953 to 1965 on KTVA channel 11. It was a gentle show with no studio audience.During the show, Ethel sat in a chair next to a table that displayed the book she would read during the show. She would also show pictures from the book to all the kids watching at home. And right next to the book, was a small stand topped by a monkey hand puppet.Ethel would take the monkey from the stand, place her right hand in the puppet, and begin talking to the monkey. Her show was so much fun to watch.I was fortunate enough to work on her show when I first went to work at KTVA in 1965. Ethel was a very nice lady who loved children.Ethel Ross Oliver also authored several books, including “Favorite Eskimo Tales Retold”.KoKo the KENI KlownIn the photo above is Bob Zoller and his sister Barbara with KoKo the KENI KlownWeekdays on KENI-TV channel 2, KoKo, played by Dick Randlett, had fun with studio audiences and his Kartoon Karnival.Anchorage Kids were glued to their television sets to watch Koko, Chu Chu and episodes of the Mickey Mouse show, and short Warner Brother Cartoons.Mary of the Alaska VIP Club remembers being on KoKo’s show with her Salvation Army “Sunbeams” group.BONUSDo You remember Kiddie Land, the fun place for rides and that wonderful mini train?Kiddie Land was created by Dick Rand (KoKo) and Les Fetrow (Chu Chu the clown).Click on the following link:Read more about Kiddie Land and “KoKo’s Karnival of Klowns” and enjoy.Romper RoomCarolyn Guess is the delightful lady in the picture above.“Romper stomper, bomper, boo, tell me, tell me, tell me do. Magic Mirror, tell me today, did all my friends have fun at play?”When you watched Romper Room on KTVA channel 11, you hoped the Romper Room teacher would see you through that “Magic Mirror”. Did she?OK, I have to ask.Were you a “Do Bee” or were you a “Don’t Bee”?BONUSHere is a fun Romper Room “behind the scenes” story.When the Romper Room teacher did the Magic Mirror, she held up a small hand mirror decorated with sparkles.After saying “Romper stomper, bomper, boo, tell me, tell me, tell me do. Magic Mirror, tell me today, did all my friends have fun at play?” the TV control room would go to a film that looked like a kaleidoscope.While that film was being shown, the teacher would switch to a mirror she could “see through”.One day, Miss Neilia was doing the Magic Mirror. We went to the film and she changed mirrors. And just when we came back to her, a little boy who was sitting next to Miss Neilia said, “I saw what you did, you switched mirrors”.After the show, Miss Neilia and the crew had a good laugh.DOUBLE BONUSHow would you like to see actual film of the local Anchorage Romper Room show?Take a look at these fun “Anchorage Romper Room Memories” and enjoy.From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our look at “Popular Anchorage, Alaska Restaurant Memories that will Make You Hungry.”Patsy remembers:“People don't seem to remember the Oyster Loaf Restaurant. Woolworths moved into the Oyster Loaf space when they closed. Wonderful food and tons of old photos of Alaska history all over the walls.  Also, for fine dining there was Jolly VI's about mile 26 on the highway, I believe. Unfortunately, it burned.  My favorite feel special dining place.”Rosemary has this memory:“I really miss the Marx Brothers Cafe. Van's Caesar salad was to die for, and I never had a bad meal at any of my visits”.Tony’s favorites:“We were stationed at Elmendorf AFB from '71-'78 and would always take family and friends who came to visit to Nikko Garden and reserve a pit.  It was my first introduction to Japanese culture and a lot of fun. My favorites were Shakeys pizza and Farrells.  Birthday parties were a blast there.” Dennis had an unexpected lunch companion:“Circa 1966 I was working at Nerlands and ate lunch often at the White Spot where I once had a chat with Alaska’s Governor Egan”.Connect with Mike and MaryTime to put down your PJ sandwich and chocolate milk as our look at Anchorage’s Kid’s TV shows comes to an end…This has been a wonderful trip down memory lane.What were your favorite Anchorage Kid’s TV shows?Do you have a comment? Just reply to this email. It’s so easy… Even Mother Moose could do it.Or, you can Contact Us right now.Until next timeMike & MaryAlaska VIP Club

Get full access to Alaska VIP Club at www.alaskavipclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:151434527Sun, 10 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyCan you name the Anchorage kid’s TV shows in the picture above?Remember how much fun it was to get a glass of milk, some cookies, and to take a seat in front of the family TV to watch your favorite Anchorage local kid’s TV show?In this edition of the...The Mother Moose Show and enjoy.Yes, You Can Share this EditionIt’s so easy to share all these fun memories with friends and family. And when you do, your friends and family will be so happy that they will buy you a brand-new car of your choice… well, it could happen.Click on the following link:Thank you for reading and listening to the Alaska VIP Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.HiJinks with Frank FeemanThere isn’t much out there about this Anchorage kid’s TV show, but maybe you remember it… I do.It was called “HiJinks” and the man in front of the camera in the picture above is the host, Frank Feeman.Remember all the bow ties?Frank Feeman would wear a little tiny bow tie one day, then the next day he would have a huge bow tie, then one with flashing lights… and on and on. Even the kids on the show sported bow ties.HiJinks actually got started on KFIA-TV channel 2 which later became KENI-TV and is now KTUU channel 2.The show was a lot of fun. Do you remember HiJinks? Were you on the show? Tell us about it.The Buckaroos ShowYes, the wild west came to Anchorage kid’s TV.Sheriff John welcomed us every weekday in the 1960s, with the Buckaroos Show on KTVA channel 11, with games, puppets, and cartoons. In the later years of the show, there was also a character named Deputy Dick and a silly jailhouse.BONUSAfter the 1964 earthquake, KTVA continued The Buckaroo show, but they could no longer have children in the studio because of the earthquake damage to the building.Sheriff John had left the show just before the earthquake, so Deputy Dick took over as the host for a short time.DOUBLE BONUSThe Buckaroos set was later used as the cabin in the spruce on the Mother Moose Show,Take a look at this fun story “KTVA’s Buckaroo Show and the 64’ Earthquake” and remember.“Through the Magic Window”with Ethel OliverThe Alaska VIP Club, researched and looked all over for a picture, but the only one we found was far too small.Ethel Oliver started the first Kindergarten in Anchorage back in 1939.And, she hosted “Through the Magic Window” from 1953 to 1965 on KTVA channel 11. It was a...]]>442cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/popular-anchorage-alaska-restaurant-memories-that-will-make-you-hungry--62594477The Lucky Wishbone Story by Patricia Brown - Heller and enjoy.What’s Your Lucky Wishbone Story?Here’s a great memory from George:“My Wife and I enjoyed eating at the Lucky Wishbone quite often, and I remember an experience from about 1970. I was there alone and sitting at the counter. I had just ordered my fried chicken when someone sat down next to me. To my surprise, it was Alaska’s Governor Egan and I had a really enjoyable talk with him.”BONUSEveryone had their favorite Arctic Roadrunner burger. What was yours?Take a look at This Arctic Roadrunner story by Mary of Anchorage Memories.Are You Hungry Yet?In the photo above is Benny’s Taco Wagon.Some of our favorites were not “sit down” restaurants. Benny’s food truck looked a little worn on the outside, but the food was great.The picture above shows Anchorage’s first drive-thru, A&W Root beer. Remember those great french fries?Play the GameYes, You can Share this EditionDo you want to make your friends and family really hungry for some great food from their favorite Anchorage restaurant?Just click on the following link:Thank you for listening and reading the Alaska VIP Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Remember These?Remember These Yummy Places?Don's Green AppleCattle CompanyHow HowThe AbbyGwenniesDowntown Hof BrauWoolworth's lunch counterHewitt's lunch counter on 4th AvenueLa CabanaLa MexShakey's in SpenardBONUSThese Stories will get you Good and Hungry.Take a look at these Favorite Anchorage Restaurants and remember.In the photo above, Mary of the Alaska VIP Club takes Nikki and Christopher to lunch at a favorite Anchorage food truck, “Taco Florez”.The Double Musky InnIn the photo above is the Double Musky Inn.Some of our favorites are a few miles out of Anchorage. The Double Musky Inn is a huge dining favorite, located in Girdwood.BONUSDo you know how the Double Musky Inn got started?Take a look at The Double Musky Inn and discover.Now it’s Your TurnReply to this email to tell us about your favorite Anchorage Restaurant, OR, you can Contact Us to say, “I need and Alaska Banquet right now.”From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our edition about Anchorage Street NamesJoseph has this story:“My father-in-law, Don Galt, was a developer in Anchorage for both commercial and residential projects. He built Woodside East near Wendler. The main street in the development is Kelsan. It is named after his daughters, Kelly Galt and Sandy Galt.”Contact Mike and MaryAre you hungry? We sure are.This edition is filled with great memories. Including stories, and the A&W game show video.You can easily connect with us by replying to this email, OR you can Contact Us to say, “Here’s my favorite Anchorage, Alaska restaurant memory.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska VIP Club

Get full access to Alaska VIP Club at www.alaskavipclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:151084547Sun, 03 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyWhat places come to mind when you remember your favorite restaurants in Anchorage, Alaska?Here are just a few to get you started.* The White Spot* The original A&W Drive-In* La Cabana* A wonderful steak at Club Paris* Anchorage's Tastee Freez*...The Lucky Wishbone Story by Patricia Brown - Heller and enjoy.What’s Your Lucky Wishbone Story?Here’s a great memory from George:“My Wife and I enjoyed eating at the Lucky Wishbone quite often, and I remember an experience from about 1970. I was there alone and sitting at the counter. I had just ordered my fried chicken when someone sat down next to me. To my surprise, it was Alaska’s Governor Egan and I had a really enjoyable talk with him.”BONUSEveryone had their favorite Arctic Roadrunner burger. What was yours?Take a look at This Arctic Roadrunner story by Mary of Anchorage Memories.Are You Hungry Yet?In the photo above is Benny’s Taco Wagon.Some of our favorites were not “sit down” restaurants. Benny’s food truck looked a little worn on the outside, but the food was great.The picture above shows Anchorage’s first drive-thru, A&W Root beer. Remember those great french fries?Play the GameYes, You can Share this EditionDo you want to make your friends and family really hungry for some great food from their favorite Anchorage restaurant?Just click on the following link:Thank you for listening and reading the Alaska VIP Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Remember These?Remember These Yummy Places?Don's Green AppleCattle CompanyHow HowThe AbbyGwenniesDowntown Hof BrauWoolworth's lunch counterHewitt's lunch counter on 4th AvenueLa CabanaLa MexShakey's in SpenardBONUSThese Stories will get you Good and Hungry.Take a look at these Favorite Anchorage Restaurants and remember.In the photo above, Mary of the Alaska VIP Club takes Nikki and Christopher to lunch at a favorite Anchorage food truck, “Taco Florez”.The Double Musky InnIn the photo above is the Double Musky Inn.Some of our favorites are a few miles out of Anchorage. The Double Musky Inn is a huge dining favorite, located in Girdwood.BONUSDo you know how the Double Musky Inn got started?Take a look at The Double Musky Inn and discover.Now it’s Your TurnReply to this email to tell us about your favorite Anchorage Restaurant, OR, you can Contact Us to say, “I need and Alaska Banquet right now.”From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our edition about Anchorage Street NamesJoseph has this story:“My father-in-law, Don Galt, was a developer in Anchorage for both commercial and residential projects. He built Woodside East near Wendler. The main street in the development is Kelsan. It is named after his daughters, Kelly Galt and Sandy Galt.”Contact Mike and MaryAre you hungry? We sure are.This edition is filled with great memories. Including stories, and the A&W game show video.You can easily connect with us by replying to this email, OR you can Contact Us to say, “Here’s my favorite Anchorage, Alaska restaurant memory.”Until Next TimeMike...]]>185cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-fascinating-look-at-how-they-named-anchorage-alaska-streets--62427314I Love Muldoon and enjoy.Whitney RoadBud and Daisy Whitney first came to the mouth of Ship Creek in 1911, years ahead of the railroad.Then in 1914 they moved up the creek and built a new homestead approximately where the Boniface gate to Joint Base Elmendorf - Richardson is located today.Whitney Road is named after them. It’s located near Ship Creek and Government Hill.BONUSYou can learn more about Bud and Daisy Whitney.Take a look at Anchorage Pioneers Bud and Daisy Whitney and discover early Anchorage.Yes, You can Share This EditionYour friends and family will be so happy when you share the Alaska VIP Club with them, that they will give you a lifetime supply of your favorite ice cream… well, it could happen… Just click the link below to share.Thanks for reading and listening to the Alaska VIP Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Klevin StreetThis Anchorage street, located in the Russian Jack Park neighborhood, was named after a homesteader named Nels Kleven.Notice that the spelling of the street name, Klevin, varies slightly from the spelling of Nels Kleven’s last name.Spenard RoadSpenard Road, 1958, photo courtesy of Linda MillerThe sign above reads, “Entering SPENARD “The Land of the Free for All”.Now, Spenard, Spenard Road and Spenard Lake are all named after one of the most colorful characters from the very early days of Anchorage while it was still a tent city.Joseph A. Spenard decided he could supply the town site with lumber. So he went into a forest preserve and decided to cut down those trees and transport them back to tent city where he could sell them.Like Arnold Muldoon, Joe needed to build a corduroy road from Tent City to where he was cutting trees. Spenard convinced a couple of the early civic clubs to help him. When the road was complete, it became known as Spenard Road.BONUSJoe Spenard was a colorful character.Take a look at Did Daring Joe Drive His Car into a Pool Hall? and enjoy.Lane StreetHotel owner Harry LaneOur research didn’t discover much about the hotel owner, Harry Lane or the Crescent Hotel, except that the hotel was located on 4th Avenue.However, Mr. Lane was later honored with an Anchorage street named after him.And by the way, if you know anything about Anchorage pioneer Harry Lane, we would love to hear from you.BONUSVisit Anchorage Memories.comA treasure chest of memories of Anchorage, AlaskaTake a look at Anchorage Memories.com and enjoy.Russian JackThe newspaper ad above was to promote Jacob Marunenko, “Russian Jack” for the Fur Rendezvous Mardi Gras King.The ad ran in the February 14, 1948, Anchorage Daily Times. Russian Jack lost by a landslide, but was declared the “Prince” of the event.Between Joe Spenard and Russian Jack, it would be difficult to tell which was more of a “colorful character”.In the early days, the residents of tent city gave each other nicknames. And since Jacob Marunenko, who also went by “Jack”, was Russian, he became known as “Russian Jack”.One of Russian Jack’s endeavors, involved selling moon shine, known locally as “squirrel juice”. But since the Alaska Railroad prohibited the sale or consumption of alcohol at tent city, folks like Russian Jack built stills and came up with interesting ways to sell their brew.Russian Jack went way out of town, became a squatter and built a cabin in the woods where he also hid his still. The area had a natural spring and was later named Russian Jack Springs.BONUSHis story is a fascinating, and his name lives on in Anchorage neighborhoods and parks.Take a look at this story of Russian Jack and enjoy.Hoyt StreetHoyt Motor company, on 5th and E streetsHarry Hoyt owned one of the first car dealerships in Anchorage.Harry and his wife were also devoted outdoors adventurers.Hoyt Street is named after Harry Hoyt.BONUSTake a look at the following story from a member of the Alaska VIP Club.Gene tell us this story:“My first real job was at Hoyt Motors.  It was in 1949, and I was 15-16 years old.  I greased cars, fixed tires including large truck tires with split ring rims.   One of my main jobs was washing new Dodge and Plymouth cars.  I learned to drive in those new cars. I wasn't about to tell the boss that I didn't know how to drive. I Will never forget when, at a stop, the guy in front started to back up, and I couldn't get that fluid drive Dodge to go into reverse.  He stopped just in time!” Marijane StreetMary Jane Dougherty of the Alaska VIP Club has an Anchorage subdivision street named after her.Mary’s stepfather created the subdivision and named many of the streets after family members.The subdivision opened in the late 1960s. Note that the street name varies from her real name.Do You Or Your Family Have An Anchorage Street Named After You (or them)?Or, do you know the origin of another Anchorage street name? We’d love to know.From our North Stars (that’s you)The following is a comment from our “Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes” editionEdi commented:“When Mt. Spurr erupted, I remember saying that at noon it was “darker than midnight,” because of all of the ash in air.”Contact Mike and MaryYou guessed it…The picture above isn’t of Mike and Mary of the Alaska VIP Club.It’s a picture of our daughter Nikki, son Christopher and our family dog “Snoopy”.Did you enjoy this edition of the Alaska VIP Club?You can easily contact us with your comments and suggestions.Either reply to this email or Contact Us to say, “I have an Anchorage street name for you.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska VIP Club

Get full access to Alaska VIP Club at www.alaskavipclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:150450291Sun, 20 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyPictured above is the Muldoon homestead, built in the winter of 1940 - 1941To get to his Homestead, He needed a RoadMuldoon Road in Anchorage, is named after Arnold L Muldoon who actually built the road from the Glenn Highway to his homestead.His...I Love Muldoon and enjoy.Whitney RoadBud and Daisy Whitney first came to the mouth of Ship Creek in 1911, years ahead of the railroad.Then in 1914 they moved up the creek and built a new homestead approximately where the Boniface gate to Joint Base Elmendorf - Richardson is located today.Whitney Road is named after them. It’s located near Ship Creek and Government Hill.BONUSYou can learn more about Bud and Daisy Whitney.Take a look at Anchorage Pioneers Bud and Daisy Whitney and discover early Anchorage.Yes, You can Share This EditionYour friends and family will be so happy when you share the Alaska VIP Club with them, that they will give you a lifetime supply of your favorite ice cream… well, it could happen… Just click the link below to share.Thanks for reading and listening to the Alaska VIP Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Klevin StreetThis Anchorage street, located in the Russian Jack Park neighborhood, was named after a homesteader named Nels Kleven.Notice that the spelling of the street name, Klevin, varies slightly from the spelling of Nels Kleven’s last name.Spenard RoadSpenard Road, 1958, photo courtesy of Linda MillerThe sign above reads, “Entering SPENARD “The Land of the Free for All”.Now, Spenard, Spenard Road and Spenard Lake are all named after one of the most colorful characters from the very early days of Anchorage while it was still a tent city.Joseph A. Spenard decided he could supply the town site with lumber. So he went into a forest preserve and decided to cut down those trees and transport them back to tent city where he could sell them.Like Arnold Muldoon, Joe needed to build a corduroy road from Tent City to where he was cutting trees. Spenard convinced a couple of the early civic clubs to help him. When the road was complete, it became known as Spenard Road.BONUSJoe Spenard was a colorful character.Take a look at Did Daring Joe Drive His Car into a Pool Hall? and enjoy.Lane StreetHotel owner Harry LaneOur research didn’t discover much about the hotel owner, Harry Lane or the Crescent Hotel, except that the hotel was located on 4th Avenue.However, Mr. Lane was later honored with an Anchorage street named after him.And by the way, if you know anything about Anchorage pioneer Harry Lane, we would love to hear from you.BONUSVisit Anchorage Memories.comA treasure chest of memories of Anchorage, AlaskaTake a look at Anchorage Memories.com and enjoy.Russian JackThe newspaper ad above was to promote Jacob Marunenko, “Russian Jack” for the Fur Rendezvous Mardi Gras King.The ad ran in the February 14, 1948, Anchorage Daily Times. Russian Jack lost by a landslide, but was declared the “Prince” of the event.Between Joe Spenard and Russian Jack, it would be difficult to tell which was more of a “colorful character”.In the early days, the residents of tent city gave each other nicknames. And since Jacob Marunenko, who also went by “Jack”, was Russian, he...]]>365cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-powerful-explosion-created-alaska-s-valley-of-ten-thousand-smokes--62348395The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes and discover.Alaska Volcano FactsThere are more than 130 volcanoes and volcanic fields in Alaska.Around 90 of these might erupt again.About 50 have been active since 1760. Those include Mount Spurr, Redoubt, Illiamna and Mount Saint Augustine. All are near Anchorage.In the photo above is Mount SpurrMike of Anchorage was six years old when Spurr erupted.“Our family was living in a log home on Fairbanks street near downtownAnchorage, Alaska in 1953. When I woke up one summer morning I noticed that something was wrong.”BONUSYou can read Mike’s memories of the volcanic eruption.Take a look at “Midnight at High Noon” and remember.From our North Stars (that’s you)We received these comments about our look back at The Coke Show, Anchorage’s favorite teen call-in radio show, hosted by Ron Moore.The show was broadcast from a small radio booth on the roof of the Bun Drive-In.Karen had this memory:“The Coke Show was a great part of my high school years! I graduated in ‘68, and still smile when I drive past The Bun!”And Jeanne had this to say:“Such fun memories…I was too young but remember listening as my sister had it playing. Of course, I wanted to do everything my big sister would do, so I could feel cool.”Michael added this:“I was the drummer in A Burgundy Rose, and a few other bands including Tyme, Albatross, Heavenly Blue, Proof, The Entire Turkish Army, and Special Delivery,Susan Rhodes, as I remember this it was Great Times.”Connect with UsThe story of the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes is a fascinating and incredible part of Alaska history.Do you have a comment? You can reply to this email. Or you can Contact Us to say, “I’ve been to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska VIP Club

Get full access to Alaska VIP Club at www.alaskavipclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:150148279Sun, 13 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyIn the photo above is an explorer’s 1916 camp in the Valley of Ten Thousand SmokesFor five days in 1912, the Alaska Peninsula experienced violent earthquakes.Then the Mount Katmai volcano erupted in southern Alaska, 265 miles southwest of...The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes and discover.Alaska Volcano FactsThere are more than 130 volcanoes and volcanic fields in Alaska.Around 90 of these might erupt again.About 50 have been active since 1760. Those include Mount Spurr, Redoubt, Illiamna and Mount Saint Augustine. All are near Anchorage.In the photo above is Mount SpurrMike of Anchorage was six years old when Spurr erupted.“Our family was living in a log home on Fairbanks street near downtownAnchorage, Alaska in 1953. When I woke up one summer morning I noticed that something was wrong.”BONUSYou can read Mike’s memories of the volcanic eruption.Take a look at “Midnight at High Noon” and remember.From our North Stars (that’s you)We received these comments about our look back at The Coke Show, Anchorage’s favorite teen call-in radio show, hosted by Ron Moore.The show was broadcast from a small radio booth on the roof of the Bun Drive-In.Karen had this memory:“The Coke Show was a great part of my high school years! I graduated in ‘68, and still smile when I drive past The Bun!”And Jeanne had this to say:“Such fun memories…I was too...]]>262cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-fascinating-treasure-chest-of-coke-show-radio-memories--62255559“Cruisin’ with GTO Joe” and remember when.Now here’s more from Ron.”Having a live mike way out over the intersection so I could pick up the sound of dual exhausts and tires peeling out. Having local bands as guests in the "Chicken Coop" answering phones. And putting popular bands on either side of the Bun Drive-In roof on weekends and my spot ended up on the top of the chicken coop, playing all oldies on Sunday afternoon. So I felt it would be fun to give the kids at home a chance to be heard on the air by making requests and dedications. That resulted in many of them having on air nicknames. Later when one of the few audience surveys was released, it gave yours truly the highest rating of my 37 year career. 72% of the people listening to radio were tuning in to The Coke Show" and more than 40% were above 18 which really shocked some folks back at the radio station that thought the only listeners were Teeny Boppers.But it turned out a lot of parents and others were tuning in to find out what their kids or siblings were doing by listening to them on the air and discovering there was a new boyfriend or girlfriend. So it really paid off and advertisers like Coca-Cola, Sears, and Alaska Sales and Service were happy.”Anchorage Teens Loved itFor Anchorage teens, the Coke Show was the place to be.Besides listening to the show from home and calling in song requests and dedications, some listened to the show while driving around town.Others would show up in the parking lot in front of the Bun, where they could enjoy a burger and a coke while listening to the show on their car radio.And Ron had fun with the Bun Drive-In parking lot crowd.Naming them “Honker-Bonkers”, Ron would look out over the parking lot and ask “how are you doing down there?” and everyone would honk their horns in response.The KENI radio engineers even put a microphone over Northern Lights Blvd, so they could hear cars as they gunned their engines and squealed their tires during the show.And you may remember that after Sam the Sham and the Pharaoh’s hit Wooly Bully, Ron would often call Northern Lights boulevard, “Wooly Bullyvard”.Ron Moore Remembers“I had two turntables, a Bogen sound mixer, a reel to reel for playing the Coke jingles, two phone lines, with one for the broadcast signal.The first show from the Bun took place on a cold Christmas Eve and everything was frozen from the big window looking out over the parking lot to the turntables. I had to take the portable heater and warm the turntables and they still sounded less than 45rpm.But there were cars in the parking lot and eventually they built a new Bun across the street with parking for many more cars and a new broadcast booth, again on the roof.There was a microphone strung out all the way to the intersection so I could bring up the sound of the hot rods as they peeled out. Even when the music was playing. On at least one occasion the police were monitoring the show and pulled the car over down the road on Northern Lights Blvd.I also installed a loud air horn just outside the broadcast booth and it could be heard for blocks.It also allowed me to open the mike when I cued the cars to honk their horns while the car hops were bringing an armful of orders out to the cars. More than one car hop lost her tray because it could be very loud.The Bun was the first location in Anchorage for speed bumps to slow down the Chevy 396’s from picking off a car hop.We even hosted a wedding at the Coke Show. I can’t recall their names but the bride arrived in a white Chevy convertible from Northern Lights side and the groom arrived in a matching convertible from the Fireweed Lane side. They were married on a flatbed trailer. I broadcast the ceremony and when the groom was told he could kiss the bride every horn in the parking lot, and the air horn, sounded off.”She Said What?“One night a band that play at all of the shows at The Royal pad, Shindig City, and Carpenters Hall, joined me on the Coke Show to answer phones.Some of Anchorages most popular bands were included, including The Heartbeats, Arsons, Blue Chip Stock, Proof, Burgundy Rose and others. One night they handed me a phone call to put on the air and this ladies voice said something like:“Ronnie, quit playing all that rock n roll and lets hear some Englebert Humperdink. This is your Mother calling .”The horns in the parking lot loved it and went wild for 10 minutes.”The Arsons in the Chicken CoopThe Coke Show was a very happening place, and local teen bands were frequently a part of the show.In a story by Mark Thompson of the local band, the Arsons, Mark talks about being in the Chicken Coop during the Coke Show.“When the Arsons were beginning to rock around Anchorage, we were invited to take requests at the Bun Drive-In in the Chicken Coop with Ron Moore on occasional Wednesdays.It was always fun and a good way to get to know our fans and the kind of music they enjoyed. I really liked girls and there were a lot of calls from giggly girls to the Chicken Coop.”The Pulsating HeartbeatsAnother very popular local teen band that was featured on The Coke Show, was the Heartbeats.Right about the time the band came out with their hit record “Anne”, Ron Moore started introducing them as the “Pulsating” Heartbeats.The following is from an interview with John Apostol of the Heartbeats on Anchorage Memories.com“The Pulsating Heartbeats came from Ron Moore. He started calling us "The Pulsating Heartbeats" every time he introduced our band on the radio or at dances. It was such a catchy name. We love it! “Jerry Rose and The Coke ShowWhen Ron wasn’t able to host the Coke Show, he would have other KENI radio DJs stepping for the night.One of those was a young DJ named Jerry Rose (Peter Bie in real life).The Coke Show had so many things going on that it made it a hard show to do. So when another DJ was sitting in for Ron… they had their hands full.Anchorage DJ Jerry Rose remembers taking a microphone into the Bun Drive-In parking lot to speak with teens in their cars.“We would often take a microphone down into the parking lot to talk with folks (especially those that wanted to make a dedication).From time to time we’d get them to honk their horns, but that was rare as it was quite noisy.Of course while the DJ was in the parking lot, someone (like Michael Dougherty of the Alaska VIP Club) would have to be up in the Chicken Coop to answer the phone and spin the records.”The View from the Chicken CoopAbove photo courtesy of Malcolm BurgessDuring The Coke Show, Ron Moore would say “from high atop the Bun Drive-In”.The small radio booth sat on the roof of the Bun, overlooking the parking lot below. The booth was sometimes called the Chicken Coop or the “Royal Roost”. Why the Royal Roost? Well, on Anchorage radio, Ron was called the Royal Coachman. He even had a Royal Coachman theme song. You may also recall that Ron’s car was called the “Royal Coach”. So, of course, the studio on top of the roof was the “Royal Roost”.Ron Moore talks about the radio booth.“To my best recollection, "The Chicken Coop" was how Ruby Westin referred to the broadcast booth a couple of times and it stuck. Ruby and Roy Westin built the original Bun Drive in on the SW corner of Northern Lights at Fairbanks Street, facing Northern Lights (Where the Office Lounge was located later). It was quite small with little parking. The broadcast booth was quite small too. It didn't take long for it to outgrow the location so a new and much larger Bun was constructed at the NE corner facing Gambell Street but open to Northern Lights looking across to the Sears Mall where parking spilled over from the Bun every so often. The Westin’s sold to Ken and Bobby Haines and the broadcast booth was new and larger with room for a couple of guests. The Mighty Michael ConnectionYes, that’s me, Michael Dougherty, the autho]]>substack:post:149778123Sun, 06 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyOn Christmas Eve, 1959, a small booth sitting on the roof of the Bun Drive-In, a burger place in Anchorage, Alaska, became home to a new program on KENI radio, called The Coke Show.And it became a huge hit.Long before cell phones, Anchorage teens who...“Cruisin’ with GTO Joe” and remember when.Now here’s more from Ron.”Having a live mike way out over the intersection so I could pick up the sound of dual exhausts and tires peeling out. Having local bands as guests in the "Chicken Coop" answering phones. And putting popular bands on either side of the Bun Drive-In roof on weekends and my spot ended up on the top of the chicken coop, playing all oldies on Sunday afternoon. So I felt it would be fun to give the kids at home a chance to be heard on the air by making requests and dedications. That resulted in many of them having on air nicknames. Later when one of the few audience surveys was released, it gave yours truly the highest rating of my 37 year career. 72% of the people listening to radio were tuning in to The Coke Show" and more than 40% were above 18 which really shocked some folks back at the radio station that thought the only listeners were Teeny Boppers.But it turned out a lot of parents and others were tuning in to find out what their kids or siblings were doing by listening to them on the air and discovering there was a new boyfriend or girlfriend. So it really paid off and advertisers like Coca-Cola, Sears, and Alaska Sales and Service were happy.”Anchorage Teens Loved itFor Anchorage teens, the Coke Show was the place to be.Besides listening to the show from home and calling in song requests and dedications, some listened to the show while driving around town.Others would show up in the parking lot in front of the Bun, where they could enjoy a burger and a coke while listening to the show on their car radio.And Ron had fun with the Bun Drive-In parking lot crowd.Naming them “Honker-Bonkers”, Ron would look out over the parking lot and ask “how are you doing down there?” and everyone would honk their horns in response.The KENI radio engineers even put a...]]>753cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-portage-alaska-became-a-ghost-town--62063694Anchorage Memories.com and enjoy.Connect with UsRemember when the Turtles came to Anchorage, Alaska?They had hits like “Happy Together” and “She’s Rather be with Me”.The young girl in the picture is Mary of Anchorage Memories. She was a Pacesetters Go Go Girl at the time.Do you have a comment? You can reply to this email. Or you can Contact Us to say, “I had a drink in Portage, filled with 1,000 year old ice from Portage Glacier.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska VIP Club

Get full access to Alaska VIP Club at www.alaskavipclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:149120478Sun, 22 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyThe tiny coastal town of Portage, was located about 47 miles southeast of Anchorage, Alaska, on the Seward Highway. It used to sit on the shore of Cook Inlet. More about that later in this edition.The town was an early transportation hub connecting...242cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/this-is-sydney-laurence-alaska-s-amazing-denali-artist--61701557Relaxing Music Moment and relax.Laurence Becomes a “Snow Bird”In 1924, Sydney Laurence also opened a studio in Los Angeles, California. And with that, and for the rest of his life, he spent the winter in California and summers in Anchorage.In Los Angeles, he married Jeanne K. Holerman in 1928.Sydney Laurence passed away in Anchorage on September 11, 1940, and was laid to rest in the Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery.His wife Jeanne Laurence passed away in Anchorage in August 1980.BONUSWould you like to know more about Alaska’s most renowned painter?Read more about Sydney Laurence and discover.From our North Stars (that’s you)From our podcast about the Matanuska Maid dairyJim had this comment:“Dorothy Ann Shelly, the winner of the contest, was very clever in name changing "made" to "maid".Joe noticed something:“The 1935 farm picture has a 1970s Chevrolet pickup parked to one side.”Tom shared this memory:“My family camped with some friends at Moose River on the Kenai Peninsula, near where it joins the Kenai River. There was a little fast food and ice cream stand on the west side of the bridge over the Moose River that sold soft serve ice cream that used a mix made by Matanuska Maid. The best soft serve ice cream I ever had.”Connect with usA Fond MemoryDo you remember going to the bank on 4th Avenue, just up the street from the 4th Avenue Theater? They had that wonderful fish tank inset into the side of the building facing the sidewalk, and it was filled with rainbow trout.But inside the bank, they had huge Sydney Laurence paintings displayed on the walls. They were a beautiful reminder of a man, his art and a majestic place called Denali.Do you have a comment or just want to say “hey, the view is great up here on Denali!”You can either reply to this email, or you can Contact Us right now.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska VIP Club

Get full access to Alaska VIP Club at www.alaskavipclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:148828364Sun, 15 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyHis love for the mountain, known as Denali, moved him to create wonderful paintings.Mountains treat Anchorage, Alaska to the glories of summer with a splash of fireweed, a reddish flower that graces many mountains in the Great Land.But as winter...Relaxing Music Moment and relax.Laurence Becomes a “Snow Bird”In 1924, Sydney Laurence also opened a studio in Los Angeles, California. And with that, and for the rest of his life, he spent the winter in California and summers in Anchorage.In Los Angeles, he married Jeanne K. Holerman in 1928.Sydney Laurence passed away in Anchorage on September 11, 1940, and was laid to rest in the Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery.His wife Jeanne Laurence passed away in Anchorage in August 1980.BONUSWould you like to know more about Alaska’s most renowned painter?Read more about Sydney Laurence and discover.From our North...]]>300cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fascinating-story-of-alaska-s-own-matanuska-maid-dairy--61299395Relaxing Music Moment and… relax.From our North Stars (that’s you)From our podcast about the Alaska Gold RushAvril wrote:“I always find out something new even though I lived there for 12 years.  It's truly amazing how these gold rush people lived in tents and survived.” Jeanne shared this:“My maternal grandfather was one of those who left Skagway for Whitehorse to look for gold and his sister, my great aunt, was a “dancehall girl” during the gold rush. My grandfather didn't strike it rich, but moved to Juneau, where he married, and my mother was born. My aunt “retired” to the Bay Area for the rest of her life. Reading your story reminded me of what my mother told me. I never had the opportunity to know either my grandfather or aunt. Just heard the stories.”Tom had this memory:“In the late 1970s while living in Juneau, my brother and brother-in-law from Anchorage decided we would hike the Chilkoot Trail.  After meeting in Skagway, we decided to walk the 9 miles to the trailhead (Dyea) rather than wait for a ride.  Climbing the steps with a full pack with only minimal provisions was tough, making us realize what the prospectors endured.  There was a Mountie stationed at the top as we crossed into Canada.  After spending a night at a cabin, we made it to Lake Bennett and enjoyed lunch and a train ride on the White Pass & Yukon RR back to Skagway.”Connect with UsGreat memories of Matanuska Maid.Now are you hungry for some breakfast cereal in a bowl full of Matanuska Maid milk? We are.Do you have a comment? You can reach us by replying to this email.Or, you can Contact Us to say, “I loved the Matanuska Maid Dairy.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska VIP Club.com

Get full access to Alaska VIP Club at www.alaskavipclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:148591395Sun, 08 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyRemember the name and the picture on the milk carton of the young lady on ice skates with the fur-trimmed parka? That was as much a part of your life in Anchorage as Gilman’s bread or going to see a movie at the 4th Avenue Theatre.Most of us had a...273cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/one-daring-gold-rush-drove-the-skagway-alaska-invasion--61228578video about the history of Dyea and discoverThe Chilkoot StepsThe Chilkoot Pass led stampeders into Canada on their way to the Klondike River. The Canadian Mounties required every prospector to bring a full years worth of supplies with them. So, every person had to make many trips up and down this very long pass to get all their goods to the top. As you might imagine, while stampeders were busy making multiple trips up and down the Chilkoot, theft of supplies was rampant.The Chilkoot had steps cut into the pass that the stampeders used to get up the steep grade. It was called the “Chilkoot Steps” and it was a hard climb. Imagine doing that over and over until you had all your supplies on the top. Only to have them stolen.Yes, You can Share this EditionWould your friends or family enjoy this story about the Alaska Gold Rush?You can easily share this edition of the Alaska VIP Club with them.Just click on the following link:Thanks for reading, the Alaska VIP Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Enter Jeff, “Soapy” SmithA brilliant con man, Jeff Smith, brought his gang from Colorado to Skagway to take advantage of the men arriving in Skagway with money to buy goods to get them to the gold fields. And to rob miners returning to Skagway of any gold they found in the Klondike.Smith even had men working the steam ships headed to Skagway and Dyea. His men found out who had money, so that when the ship arrived and the passengers got ashore, they could be mugged or conned out of their money.Soapy Smith got the name “Soapy” after a con game. He would sell bars of soap for a dollar with the chance to find 10 dollars, 20 dollars or more, tucked inside the wrapper.However, Soapy had men planted in the crowd who would “find” the soap bars with money, causing the gathered crowd to get so excited that they would buy up all the soap, hoping to find money in the wrappers.Of course, Soapy’s men were the only ones to “find” the money (which they later had to give back to Soapy). The take was always enough for Soapy to play a few games of faro.The Skagway Telegraph OfficeThere was no telegraph service in Skagway. But Soapy came up with a brilliant con.The Skagway Telegraph office had a telegraph cable that went as far as the inlet. Inside the office, Soapy’s men would take your message and “send” it. In the backroom, Soapy’s men wrote the “replies”.People were sending telegrams about how much money they had or how much gold they found. Then Soapy’s men, who were working the Skagway Telegraph Office con, would report to the gang, who would then find various ways to steal the person’s money or gold.One Man LawThieves, thugs, and con men could operate pretty easily because Marshall Rowan was the only lawman in Skagway.Soapy had tried and failed to get Rowan in his pocket. Later, Rowan was shot and killed by a shotgun blast in a Skagway saloon. It is believed that the shooting was set up by Soapy.The End of the Klondike Gold RushIt was over in a short amount of time.Because of the hardships involved, few make it to the gold. As for Soapy Smith, some of his men robbed a lucky prospector. The prospector complained, and a mob formed to run Soapy Smith out of town.But Soapy faced down the mob and in a brief gun fight, Soapy was shot and killed.From our North Stars (that’s you)Did you know that you can comment on each edition of the Alaska VIP Club?You can either reply to this email, or you can Contact Us to say, “I’ve been to Skagway, Alaska.”A Final Word from Mike and MaryDid you strike gold?Just reading about the Alaska Gold Rush was like striking gold… But now you have to make sure that Soapy Smith and his men don’t take it away from you.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAlaska VIP Club

Get full access to Alaska VIP Club at www.alaskavipclub.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:148320863Sun, 01 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyWhile the Klondike gold fields were in Canada, along the Yukon River, the cheapest entrance was through Skagway, Alaska, or Dyea which was located across the Lynn Canal.It’s estimated that 100,000 prospectors, known as “stampeders” packed the docks...video about the history of Dyea and discoverThe Chilkoot StepsThe Chilkoot Pass led stampeders into Canada on their way to the Klondike River. The Canadian Mounties required every prospector to bring a full years worth of supplies with them. So, every person had to make many trips up and down this very long pass to get all their goods to the top. As you might imagine, while stampeders were busy making multiple trips up and down the Chilkoot, theft of supplies was rampant.The Chilkoot had steps cut into the pass that the stampeders used to get up the steep grade. It was called the “Chilkoot Steps” and it was a hard climb. Imagine doing that over and over until you had all your supplies on the top. Only to have them stolen.Yes, You can Share this EditionWould your friends or family enjoy this story about the Alaska Gold Rush?You can easily share this edition of the Alaska VIP Club with them.Just click on the following link:Thanks for reading, the Alaska VIP Club. This post is public, so feel free to share it.Enter Jeff, “Soapy” SmithA brilliant con man, Jeff Smith, brought his gang from Colorado to Skagway to take advantage of the men arriving in Skagway with money to buy goods to get them to the gold fields. And to rob miners returning to Skagway of any gold they found in the Klondike.Smith even had men working the steam ships headed to Skagway and Dyea. His men found out who had money, so that when the ship arrived and the passengers got ashore, they could be mugged or conned out of their money.Soapy Smith got the name “Soapy” after a con game. He would sell bars of soap for a dollar with the chance to find 10 dollars, 20 dollars or more, tucked inside the wrapper.However, Soapy had men planted in the crowd who would “find” the soap bars with money, causing the gathered crowd to get so excited that they would buy up all the soap, hoping to find money in the wrappers.Of course, Soapy’s men were the only ones to “find” the money (which they later had to give back to Soapy). The take was always enough for Soapy to play a few games of faro.The Skagway Telegraph OfficeThere was no telegraph service in Skagway. But Soapy came up with a brilliant con.The Skagway Telegraph office had a telegraph cable that went as far as the inlet. Inside the office, Soapy’s men would take your message and “send” it. In the backroom, Soapy’s men wrote the “replies”.People were sending telegrams about how much money they had or how much gold they found. Then Soapy’s men, who were working the Skagway Telegraph Office con, would report to the...]]>375cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/anchorage-tent-city-memories--61067655Alaska Railroad Survey Crews and enjoy.Yes, You can Share this IssueYour friends and family will say, “Wow” when you share this Tent City edition with them. And when you do, they will be so happy that they will name a bright star in the night sky after you… Well, it could happen.Click on the following link:Thanks for reading Anchorage Memories VIP Club Podcast! This post is public, so feel free to share it.U.S. President Woodrow Wilson DecidedIn April 1915, needing coal for the Pacific Fleet, the Federal Government decided to access the coal fields of the Matanuska Valley in Alaska. President Woodrow Wilson made the decision that the Alaska Railroad would run from Seward to Fairbanks. The route would take the railroad past the coal deposits of the Matanuska Valley and would end in Fairbanks.Then, in 1915, the United States Congress authorized construction of the only Federally owned railroad in the history of the U.S.Construction headquarters would be established at the mouth of Ship Creek at Cook Inlet.And because Cook Inlet could be dredged to accommodate larger ships and was a protected boat anchorage, the area was chosen as the Alaska Railroad mid-point.The goal was to lay 470 miles of railroad track. The StampedeIt was like a gold rush without the goldWhen it was announced that the AEC, Alaska Engineering Commission, was going to hire workers, thousands of people began arriving at Ship Creek Flats. Some were looking for jobs, some for lucrative business opportunities.Almost overnight, a rugged tent city sprang up among the tree stumps. And the work began.Who Drove the First Spike?Martha White, who was born in a cabin just off Cook Inlet, was selected to drive the first railroad spike.BONUSClick on the following link:See how the railroad gave birth to Anchorage and discover.The Plateau Above Ship CreekA town was beginning, so lots were then laid out for a 240 acre town site under the supervision of Andrew Christensen of the General Land Office. First House Built in AnchorageLocated in Elderberry Park at 420 M Street in Anchorage, a home was built in 1915 by Oscar Anderson. Aside from a few log cabins, It was the first wood home built in Anchorage. His home still stands today as an Anchorage tourist site.Oscar Anderson claimed to be the 18th person to set foot on what is now Anchorage. He lived in his house until his passing in 1974.BONUSTake a virtual tour of the Oscar Anderson House and enjoy.How did they arrive at a Name for this New “Town”?An election was held on August 9, 1915, to decide on an official name for the town that was springing up before their eyes.Names to consider included:Alaska CityGatewayHomesteadAnchorageLane (named after Secretary of the Interior, Franklin D. Lane)MatanuskaShip CreekTerminalWinalaskaThere were 538 votes cast.The winner was Alaska City with 146 votes.Lane came in second with 129 votes. Third choice was Anchorage with 101 votes.Then Governor J.F.A. Strong wanted “Matanuska”.The Alaska Engineering Commission (AEC) wanted the name “Ship Creek”.Enter the United States Post OfficeYes, the U.S. Post Office gave the town the name Anchorage.They appointed Roydon Chase as the first postmaster, and all mail was then sent to “Anchorage, Alaska.”The new name was quickly added to maps and news stories covering the building of the railroad and the town.Cook Inlet Pioneer and Knik NewspaperSo much was happening that a newspaper set up shop in town. From it’s ragged tent office, the first issue of the Cook Inlet Pioneer & Knik News was issued as volume 1, number 1 as a weekly newspaper on June 5, 1915.BONUSKnik was once the largest settlement on Cook Inlet.Goods were shipped from Knik to interior Alaska. But when the Alaska Railroad by-passed Knik in favor of Ship Creek, and when the railroad reached Wasilla, Knik lost its place as a shipping point.As a result, most of Knik was abandoned and many of the buildings were moved to other communities.Published Daily with a New NameIn October 1915, the name of the first newspaper in tent city (Anchorage) was changed to the Cook Inlet Pioneer, and it became Anchorage’s first daily newspaper.*It would later become the Anchorage Daily Times.From a Rugged Tent City to Modern Anchorage, AlaskaHappily, the town of Anchorage still has a few reminders of its early days.The Wendler building, in downtown Anchorage, was one of the first grocery stores in Anchorage, and later it was the home of Club 25. The Oscar Anderson house and the home of the first mayor of Anchorage, Leopold David.Now, Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska. But not that long ago, it was a ragged, tent city, carved out of the Alaska wilderness on the shores of Cook Inlet.From our North Stars (that’s you)From our look at “The Lake Illiamna Monster”.Ben sent us this comment:“I used to sit in the right seat of my dad’s plane looking down over the float, hoping I’d catch a glimpse of Illie!”Jim is interested in the $100 thousand dollar reward:“Now, that is a very interesting story about the Iliamna Lake monster. Thank you for the story.  I'm surprised that no one has claimed the $100,000 reward.”Connect with Mike and MaryCan you imagine what it was like during those first months in the tent city that started what would become Anchorage, Alaska?We owe a lot to those early pioneers.Do you have a comment? You can reach us by replying to this email. Or you can comment below. And you can even Contact Us just to say, “Hello”.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAnchorage Memories.com

Get full access to Anchorage Memories VIP Club Podcast at anchoragememories.substack.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:147817688Sun, 18 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyIn the spring of 1915, over 2,000 prospective workers and merchants assembled at the mouth of Ship Creek.And more were arriving every day.Shore Access was DifficultPictured above, unloading a bargeSteam Ships anchored in Cook Inlet sent out small...Alaska Railroad Survey Crews and enjoy.Yes, You can Share this IssueYour friends and family will say, “Wow” when you share this Tent City edition with them. And when you do, they will be so happy that they will name a bright star in the night sky after you… Well, it could happen.Click on the following link:Thanks for reading Anchorage Memories VIP Club Podcast! This post is public, so feel free to share it.U.S. President Woodrow Wilson DecidedIn April 1915, needing coal for the Pacific Fleet, the Federal Government decided to access the coal fields of the Matanuska Valley in Alaska. President Woodrow Wilson made the decision that the Alaska Railroad would run from Seward to Fairbanks. The route would take the railroad past the coal deposits of the Matanuska Valley and would end in Fairbanks.Then, in 1915, the United States Congress authorized construction of the only Federally owned railroad in the history of the U.S.Construction headquarters would be established at the mouth of Ship Creek at Cook Inlet.And because Cook Inlet could be dredged to accommodate larger ships and was a protected boat anchorage, the area was chosen as the Alaska Railroad mid-point.The goal was to lay 470 miles of railroad track. The StampedeIt was like a gold rush without the goldWhen it was announced that the AEC, Alaska Engineering Commission, was going to hire workers, thousands of people began arriving at Ship Creek Flats. Some were looking for jobs, some for lucrative business opportunities.Almost overnight, a rugged tent city sprang up among the tree stumps. And the work began.Who Drove the First Spike?Martha White, who was born in a cabin just off Cook Inlet, was selected to drive the first railroad spike.BONUSClick on the following link:See how the railroad gave birth to Anchorage and discover.The Plateau Above Ship CreekA town was beginning, so lots were then laid out for a 240 acre town site under the supervision of Andrew Christensen of the General Land Office. First House Built in AnchorageLocated in Elderberry Park at 420 M Street in Anchorage, a home was built in 1915 by Oscar Anderson. Aside from a few log cabins, It was the first wood home built in Anchorage. His home still stands today as an Anchorage tourist site.Oscar...]]>516cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-illiamna-lake-monster--60984577Contact Us to say, “I saw the Illiamna Lake Monster”.Until Next TimeMike and MaryAnchorage Memories.com

Get full access to Anchorage Memories VIP Club Podcast at anchoragememories.substack.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:147556303Sun, 11 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyScotland has the Loch Ness monster, also known as “Nessie”.But did you know that Alaska has the Illiamna Lake Monster, also known as “Illie”?Alaska Has How Many Lakes?Alaska has over 3 million unnamed natural lakes, and about 3,197 officially named...363cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/anchorage-spa-swimming-pool-memories--60915631Anchorage Memories.com and enjoy.Final ThoughtsLike most of you, I have fond memories of my family driving by the Spa, then I eventually got to swim there, if only for a short time during school.So, Mary and I of Anchorage Memories hope you have enjoyed this stroll (or swim) down another great memory of days gone by in Anchorage.From Our North Stars (that’s you)From our edition about Anchorage pioneer, Nellie Brown. She and her husband, Jack, lived near Green Lake for a time.Jackie remembers Green Lake:“Ah, Green Lake. I spent a lovely, sunny day there back in the 50s with my dear friend Cherie, whose dad was military. Beautiful setting and a really carefree afternoon. Thanks for the background info.”Rozanne had a close connection with Nellie Brown:“I love stories about her. I worked for her a couple of times while she was still living in her government hill home.” Helen had this observation:“I never realized that the earliest pioneers in Anchorage would have gotten their mail in Eagle River, on the Iditarod Trail, but of course, that makes perfect sense.”Get in TouchAfter our look at the Spa Swimming Pool, is your hair dry yet?The Spa Swimming Pool is a great memory for so many people who live, or used to live, in Anchorage. What are your Spa Swimming Pool memories? You can connect with us by replying to this email, or you can Contact Us to say, “I still remember my steaming hair on a cold winter day as I boarded my school bus after a swim at the Spa.”Until Next TimeMike and MaryAnchorage Memories.com

Get full access to Anchorage Memories VIP Club Podcast at anchoragememories.substack.com/subscribe]]>substack:post:147291872Sun, 04 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000Michael R DoughertyWhat Are Your Memories of the Spa?Here are just a few from a post about the Spa on Anchorage Memories.comEric remembers:“Learned to swim there. Bussed over from Clark Junior High. How did we have the time to swim before we had to get back to...399cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/anchorage-pioneer-nellie-brown--60755483
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