Random Anchorage Memories: Fur Rondy, Radio and TV, Schools and More

Special moments recalled in Random Anchorage Memories from the early days of our town, up through the 1970s.

Pictured above is

George Attla and his dog team.

George Who? A Fun Tale of Anchorage's Legendary Sled Dog Racing Hero!

by Becky Leonard

After arriving in Anchorage, I went to the Fur Rendezvous and was looking at all the mushers's dogs.

A fellow came up to me, and we engaged in conversation.

I admired and patted his dogs and asked him if he mushed. He grinned and said, “A little.”

As I was leaving, a bystander approached me and asked if I knew George. I said, “George who?” The bystander said, “George Attla. You were just talking to him.”

Later, to my surprise, I learned who he was.

BONUS

A Cold Rooftop and Warm Memories: Watching Anchorage's Fur Rendezvous

by Rick

My friend from East High, Bill Anton, and I decided we would watch the sled dog races on top of the Seidenverg and Kay's building.

It was cold to say the least, and after about a half hour we decided to warm up at Hewitt's drug store on 4th Avenue.

Stiff and cold, and feeling like I was about 90 years old instead of 15, we climbed down off the roof.

We watched all the Rondys from street level after that.

Remember the Magic: Watching the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous on TV

by Helen Hulbert

We used to watch the live coverage of the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous sled dog races on our black and white TV.

We cheered for our favorite teams as the sled dogs ran by.

The parade was always fun to watch, and wasn't there a spelling bee in the morning? It seems like there was always someone I knew in either the spelling bee or the parade.

Homegrown Anchorage, Alaska fun in the old days!

Random
Anchorage Memories

Remembering My Time on a Kids TV Show with the Matanuska Maid!

by Matt

I went to kindergarten and 1st grade in 1958-1961 on Elmendorf AFB.

One of my two teachers had a kid's TV show on one of the channels.

I recall the teacher (Mrs. Mac?) had us all dress up as Santa Claus and come on the show.

I do recall that it was sponsored by Matanuska Milk and the Matanuska Maid (a young girl in a skating costume) was in the studio.

1947 Anchorage: Our Flight, Merrill Field and Tent Home Beginnings

Picture above is Merrill Field, date unknown.

by Ron Maley

In 1947 my Mother and brother flew into Merrill Field on a DC3. The air lines was PNA.

There were no seats or heat.  We sat along the walls on a bench like paratrooper's. They gave every passenger an Army parka, "one size fits all."

When we arrived in Anchorage we stepped out of the plane onto a couple of 2x12 boards so you would not step in the mud. The planks led all the way to the terminal which was a 8x10 foot shack.

There was only room for 4 people at a time inside the shack. My brother and I sat on a bench outside until my Dad picked us up.

We drove to our house in Mt View, which was a tent house. It had a shiplap floor and shiplap about 3 feet up the sides. The rest was a 12x12 tent.

We lived in that for 2 winters with no water and no electric. We got water from the house next door. Our lights were kerosene lamps that you had to pump every 15 minutes. I think the gas was Blazo.

Our heat was an oval shaped wood stove which we also cooked on.

Those were the most wonderful days of my life.

Reflecting on the Spa:
A Pool of Memories

Until March 1953, when the Spa first opened, if you wanted to swim in or around Anchorage, you had one choice. It had to be summer, and you had to swim in a lake. Or with your rubber ducky in the bathtub.

Marcia remembers:

“It was Heaven on earth! Our Youth Group used to go there, and I’ve never forgotten the wonder of it all.”

Barbara has this memory:

“For two weeks, first thing in the morning at school, a bus load of us were taken to the Spa. It was great to have swimming lessons. I still really appreciate the building design with the wall of windows. But afterward, we had to get back on the bus in winter time with our damp clothes, coats, and wet hair.”

Immerse yourself in the cherished memories of Anchorage's first indoor civilian swimming pool.

Explore the heartwarming Spa Story, Swimming Year Round in Anchorage, even during the winter months.

Relive the Magic: Anchorage Symphony's 1958-59 Season Memories

Photo courtesy of Gene Brown.

by Gene Brown

Growing up in Anchorage during the late '40s and through the '50s provided me opportunities that might not have been available otherwise.

During my junior year of high school at AHS, which later became West High School, I sat in the first chair of the trumpet section of both the high school concert band and its orchestra while being principal trumpet of the Anchorage Symphony.

The conductor was Thomas Madden, who was the Anchorage High School orchestra conductor as well.

These experiences led me to a career as a professional trumpet instrumentalist in civilian life and for seven years in the Navy music program. Not too bad for a kid from Alaska.

Remembering Charles Drug Store: On 5th Avenue Next to Club Paris

by Rachel Chenoweth Pereira

The drugstore was opened by my grandfather, Charles E Chenoweth in 1959 and named after him.

He was originally from Iowa City and moved with his wife to Anchorage in 1946.

The drugstore also featured and sold art from George Ahgupuk, who became good friends with my grandparents. His wife, my grandma, Kathryn, worked in the drugstore also, since it was a family business, and their two children went straight there after school most days. 

Charles Drug Store closed its doors in 1963.

Kathryn co-founded Anchorage Community Choir and sang in it for many years, so she was well known in the community.

Note: Charles Drug Store was located on 5th Avenue, next to Club Paris.

Nostalgic Journeys: My Family History in Anchorage, Alaska

A great place to grow up.

by Jeff Colwell

My grandfather was a junior engineer on the Panama Canal in the early 1900s. Later, they sent him to Alaska to help complete the Alaska Railroad.

Coming out of Seward as the lead engineer, he had 85 men behind him when he landed at Ship Creek. You could only see three houses in Anchorage at the time.

They named Colwell Street on Government Hill after my grandfather.

Born in Kern, Alaska, near Alyeska, my father was a locomotive engineer for 36 years with the Alaska Railroad.

I came along in 1950.

Then in 1973 I got a gig going to the airport every night at 10:30 and picking up the NBC Nightly News videotape that came in on Northwest Air for KENI-TV (now KTUU). Satellite delivered television eventually replaced me.

Later, I ran the American Top 40 with Casey Casum for KENI radio for 9 years on Sunday afternoons.

I love Anchorage, Alaska. What a great place to grow up.

Cherishing Family Memories: Good Times in Anchorage

by Walter S.

My family lived in Alaska from 1960 to 1964 (first time).

We lived on Debarr Road.

I remember my older brother and sister always talking about the "Coke Show."

My older brother attended East High School, and my older sister went to Orah Dee Clark Junior High. I was in Willawaw Elementary School.

One afternoon, my older brother was delivering newspapers in Glacier Trailer Park. My mom had made my favorite dinner, and I was watching my favorite show, Fireball XL-5. Suddenly, the 1964 earthquake struck.

I have so many great memories of my family and the times we shared in Anchorage, Alaska.

The Anchorage We Love: Fond Memories of Clinkerdagger, Bickerstaff & Petts

by C. Earnst

Fun costumes at Clinkerdagger. Great menu, and many, many memories. My aunt worked there, and I recall going in for dinner and loving seeing her. The burnt cream is still burnt into my memory!

Moto Cross Adventures
on Knik Arm's Mud Flats

by Sam DeLozier

One of the men who worked for my dad, John DeLozier at Alaska Towing and Wrecking introduced me to Anchorage motorcycle racing when I was a boy.

Bill was his name, and he came from the Southern California desert racing scene. He came to Anchorage in 1969 to work for my dad.

He would go to motorcycle races on the weekends and even took me along one day.

Hooked since day one, my first race bike was a 1966 BSA 442 Victor. A bike I bought from bill.

We would go to different racetracks around Anchorage, but my greatest memories were racing on the mud flats out on Knik Arm off the old Seward highway.

I had some great crashes, and I won my first race on a 1970 Husqvarna 250. What a time.

Remembering Binky: The Cherished Polar Bear of Alaska Zoo

In the photo above,

Binky is holding a tennis shoe.

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

When Binky came to the Alaska Zoo, Mike of Anchorage Memories went to the zoo with KTVA channel 11 reporter Tom Miller to get video of the cute little polar bear cub.

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

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

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

Moments to Remember: Listening to Anchorage Radio in My Room

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

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

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

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

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

Anonymous

Reflections of Anchorage's Beloved Movie Theatres

Anchorage winters are long, and cold. But the warmth of its movie theaters became a cherished refuge from the grip of Cabin Fever.

For hours on end, we gathered to enjoy cinematic stories that transported us far beyond the snow-blanketed streets.

From the double features that lit up the screen to the delightful appearance of cartoons, serials, and newsreels, each visit was an adventure waiting to unfold.

In those magical moments, flickering images provided us with a much-needed glimpse of the world beyond Alaska's borders, igniting our imaginations and connecting us to a broader community.

The movie theaters of Anchorage were not just places to watch films; they were portals to experiences that made our winter nights a little brighter and our memories a little warmer.

Sit back and remember your favorite Anchorage Movie Theatre Memories and enjoy.

A Trip Down Memory Lane: Gwennies, Nikko Garden, and Mukluk Telegraph

Pictured above is

an Anchorage favorite.

Random Anchorage Memories include this one:

“My family enjoyed meals at Gwennies and Nikko Gardens, and your interview was interesting. (See BONUS below.)

I didn't know the background of the owner. I remember when the current location of Gwennies was once a Japanese or Chinese restaurant (we lived on Barbara Dr., across Spenard Rd. from the current location).

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

GrandmaRobbie

BONUS

Random
Anchorage Memories
contributed by website visitors

Biting Into Memories: The Perfect Burger and Fries at The White Spot Café

by Wayne Hearne

Between the years 1966 and 1984, the White Spot Café changed locations at least 3 times.

I first ate there when it was near the corner of 4th and C streets.

The final location I knew of was in the Army recruiting building on 4th and A street.

I would come to town just to eat a perfect burger and fries lunch. If they had moved again, I would park my truck, and walk downtown searching for them. Thank goodness I always found it.

Note:

The White Spot has been an Anchorage, Alaska, favorite since 1959.

A Glimpse into the Past: Remembering My Dad Had State License #1

In the photo above is

4th Avenue in Anchorage, circa 1944.

“My father went to Anchorage in the late 40s.

My understanding is he worked on building the railroad. He became an electrician and opened Anchorage Electric sometime in the 50s. State License #1.

We were raised and lived all those years with this company. Dad did commercial and industrial. He also did work on the North Star Elementary School after the earthquake. He worked at Elmendorf and helped electrify villages along the Yukon. As kids and teenagers, we often joined him.”

Robin

The Peggy's Airport Cafe' Story: Remembering Those Wonderful Pies

Nestled in the heart of Anchorage, Alaska, Peggy’s Airport Café, later  known as Peggy’s Restaurant, holds a special place in the hearts of many.

If you were lucky enough to indulge in its warm ambiance and delectable menu, you surely remember the comforting flavors that greeted you at every visit.

For those familiar with its charm, the memories come flooding back—especially of the beloved strawberry rhubarb and banana cream pies that were the talk of the town. Just thinking about them might make your mouth water in nostalgia.

Whether you’re reminiscing about your last meal there or dreaming of a slice of that famous pie, Peggy’s will always be more than just a café; it’s a symbol of cherished moments and community spirit in Anchorage.

Enjoy these Peggies Airport Cafe'Memories and remember when.

Listening to North Winds and Ruben Gaines

Chilkoot Charlie, told by Ruben Gaines.

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

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

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

I am looking for any details on the program that followed, something like Tales of the Tundra, Jack London-like Sourdough stories read by a man over a background of Claire d’Lune or other mood music.

Great stories and a favorite memory. Can you please provide any details of those programs?”

Jim

A Note From

Anchorage Memories

The “bush communication” radio program Jim asked about was called “North Winds”.

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

BONUS

Random
Anchorage Memories
about the Anchorage we love

My Brother was in The First Graduating Class at East High School

And “Peanuts” sent us these Random Anchorage Memories:

“I arrived in Anchorage with my family in the summer of 1961, and we lived on Fort Richardson.

My brother was in the first graduating class at East Anchorage High School in 1962. In the fall of 1961, East and West double-shifted at Anchorage High School.

My mother worked at the Betty Faris Dress Shop. Access was from the street, but the shop was in the Anchorage Westward Hotel building.

We liked the burgers at Bert's Drugstore and also at A&W in Mountain View.”

Peanuts

Through the Gates of Time: Sneaking into Russian Jack Prison Farm

In the picture above

are the parents of David Lucas

on the ALCAN in 1956.

by David Lucas

I came up to Anchorage with my family (Dad, Mom, and my sister) when I was 8, by car after an exciting transit of the ALCAN Highway.

The snapshot taken above is our

Nunaka Valley home in 1956.

We arrived in Anchorage on June 20, 1956.

We lived in a small house in Nunaka Valley near DeBarr Road and Boniface Parkway.

As I grew older and became a little bolder and explored around the surrounding countryside, I and some of my friends discovered a spring to the west of Boniface Parkway, in what, of course, is now Russian Jack Park.

Extending our exploration a little further west, we stumbled upon a fascinating place, the City Prison Farm.

Not knowing what it really was, we were timid about revealing our presence there and never did.

On subsequent visits, I confess we may have filched a carrot or potato or two from the fields, even with the prisoners performing their work nearby.

This was done, not for the acquisition of food but more for the daring challenge of getting away unseen.

Later the abandoned Russian Jack Prison Farm became a golf course at Russian Jack Park.

Anchorage Prepared for a Historic Launch: The Battle to be the City’s First TV Station

In the summer of 1953, Anchorage was abuzz with excitement as two ambitious companies stepped into the fray to claim the title of the very first TV station in Alaska.

KTVA, channel 11 known as “K-TV-Alaska,” was quickly recognized by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) when it received its call letters,

While KFIA-TV, which would later transform into KENI-TV and today is KTUU, made its mark by erecting a towering signal atop the Westward Hotel.

As the competition heated up between these pioneering broadcasters, people in Anchorage waited in eager anticipation.

Join us as we delve into this captivating story of ambition, rivalry, and air waves, uncovering the rich history that laid the foundation for today’s media landscape in Anchorage.

Read Anchorage First TV Memories and meet the battle of the TV stations.

Random
Anchorage Memories
fill your heart - feed your soul

His Favorite Anchorage Movie Theatre Memories

In the photo above is

the Empress movie theatre on 4th Avenue.

It was the first movie house in Anchorage, Alaska.

“When I was young, I was an avid watcher of movies at the Empress theatre on 4th Ave.

When the Empress closed, and I got a bit older, I went to the Denali Theater. The Denali always showed double features.

The 4th Avenue Theater had Saturday matinees with old black and white western cliffhangers.

I loved those Anchorage movie theaters.”

Patrick

BONUS

4th Avenue Theatre Memories: Ticket Booth, Balcony, and Popcorn

A memory-filled, keepsake ebook

From the e-book:

“It was the perfect place in Anchorage to see a movie.

Imagine the first time you went to see a movie at Anchorage's famed 4th Avenue Theater.

Just standing there on the sidewalk in front of the theatre, looking at the colorful posters showing you what was playing and what would be playing in the weeks and months to come, was fun.

And as you approached the box office to get your movie tickets, you knew you were about to enter a special place.”

An instant download. No waiting. No shipping.

Random
Anchorage Memories
from long ago

From Runways to Memories: Anchorage's Merrill Field During World War II

Pictured above is the Merrill Field tower.

“We lived across from Merrill Field during WWII, and they were building a new control tower.

We were the last house on 5th Avenue as you were heading toward Mt. View.

The army guards would give us kids an occasional candy bar or comic book, and Mom would give them a cup of hot coffee. Dad was an Alaska Airlines radio man and worked across the street.

I have some 16mm movies Dad took of an airshow where the planes would dive at balloons and break them. Also, a film of a hangar that burned and other things. Those were interesting times, blackouts and all!”

George

The Magic of Childhood: Being on the KoKo the KENI Klown TV Show

The image above is an old TV test pattern.

by Mary of Anchorage Memories.com

“My sister Betty and I attended the Salvation Army Church.

We were “Sunbeams,” which was like Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts.

I was a student at Denali Elementary School, and in the 2nd or 3rd grade, the Sunbeams were guests on KoKo the KENI Klown Show.

I remember going down the stairs to the KENI TV studio in the 4th Avenue Theater. Not only that, but I remember seeing the lights, microphone boom, cameras, and the KoKo the KENI Klown set. It was small.

They interviewed all of us on TV, and we watched cartoons.

It was a fun learning experience to see behind the scenes of a TV show.

Everyone at the TV station was really nice.”

Remembering the Joy: A Fond Look at Anchorage Local Kid's TV Shows

Anchorage, Alaska's local kids' TV shows brought us together in a way that felt uniquely ours.

These beloved programs were more than just entertainment; they reflected our lives, featuring hosts and characters that felt like old friends.

We laughed at the silly cartoons and often found ourselves spotting familiar faces from our schools and neighborhoods, making each episode a delightful surprise.

Those whimsical moments forged a sense of community amongst Anchorage's kids, weaving memories that would last a lifetime.

Looking back, it’s hard not to feel a swell of nostalgia for those carefree days spent in front of the screen, captivated by the magic of our very own local kid's shows.

Read Remembering Our Favorite Anchorage Kid's TV Shows and relive the memories.

Small Memories Count

Half Remembered is Welcome

You can share your short memories of Anchorage with us right here.

If your memories fall within the years of 1915 up through the 1970s, we're interested.

Just include one memory in an email.

If you want, can also attach several pictures to your e-mail.

What Are Your
Short Anchorage Memories?

Remember those little memories of your days in Anchorage, Alaska.

Maybe you went bowling, went to see a performance at the Sidney Lawrence Auditorium, enjoyed a favorite restaurant, or have fun memories of your neighborhood.

How about your school days, a favorite shop, or watching a local show on TV?

Those are perfect memories to share here on this fun page.