Oh, how time flies! In 2019, Alaska will celebrate a whopping 60 years of statehood. So many things have changed, but there’s something about Alaska that always stays the same. Take a step back in time and see what the areas around our lodges looked like in 1959.

What is one of the biggest draws for travelers to the Kenai? Fishing, of course! The same is true today as it was in 1959 – if it wasn’t for the quality of the photos, you’d have a hard time convincing us these weren’t taken this summer!

Photo credit:  Donald Arthur Post, photographer, Donald Arthur Post slides, Archives and Special Collections, Consortium Library, University of Alaska Anchorage.

In Fairbanks, the buildings have received some updates, but Alaska’s favorite modes of transportation are still as evident today as they were in 1959. There’s no better way to get from point a to point b in Alaska than by air and by rail.

Photo credit: Donald Arthur Post, photographer, Donald Arthur Post slides, Archives and Special Collections, Consortium Library, University of Alaska Anchorage.

Photo credit: Donald Arthur Post, photographer, Donald Arthur Post slides, Archives and Special Collections, Consortium Library, University of Alaska Anchorage.

Hey, pretty lady. Even in 1959, it was obvious the tallest mountain in North America would continue to be a draw for locals and visitors alike. When the clouds allow a full view of Denali, you’ll feel compelled to stop and stare no matter how many times you’ve seen it.

Photo credit:  Ruth A.M. Schmidt papers, Archives and Special Collections, Consortium Library, University of Alaska Anchorage.

Happy anniversary, Alaska!