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This Week In Alaska History: $15 Billion In Damages From Exxon Valdez
- Alaska Means Business
- Jun 13
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 14
June 13, 1994: Exxon Valdez Disaster Blamed on Recklessness in Anchorage Jury Verdict
A jury in Anchorage, Alaska, found Exxon and Captain Joseph Hazelwood reckless in the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill, allowing victims to seek $15 billion in damages. The ruling marked a pivotal moment in holding corporations accountable for environmental disasters in Alaska’s history
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June 14, 1913: Princess Sophia Strikes Sentinel Island Reef near Juneau
The steamship Princess Sophia struck Sentinel Island Reef near Juneau, sustaining damage but no immediate loss of life. This incident foreshadowed the ship’s tragic sinking five years later on Vanderbilt Reef, which claimed 343 lives and remains one of Alaska’s worst maritime disasters.
June 15, 1929: First Non-Stop Flight from Seattle to Juneau Completed
Anscel Eckmann landed in Juneau in a Lockheed Vega, completing the first non-stop flight from Seattle to Alaska. This achievement marked a significant advancement in Alaskan aviation, enhancing connectivity to the mainland United States.
June 16, 1920: First Airplane Overflight of Juneau by Black Wolf Squadron
One of the four planes from the Black Wolf Squadron flew over Juneau en route to Nome, marking the city’s first recorded airplane overflight. This event symbolized the growing role of aviation in Alaska’s development and accessibility.
June 17, 1969: Matanuska-Susitna Valley Designated as Disaster Area After Flooding
Severe flooding in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, caused by heavy rains and snowmelt, led to a federal disaster declaration for the region. The floods damaged homes, infrastructure, and agricultural lands, marking a significant challenge for one of Alaska’s key farming areas.
June 18, 1903: U.S. Senator W.P. Dillingham Arrives in Sitka
U.S. Senator W.P. Dillingham arrived in Sitka on the Revenue Cutter McCulloch for a tour of Alaska, later inspiring the naming of the town of Dillingham in his honor. His visit underscored increasing federal interest in Alaska’s resources and governance during the early 20th century.
June 19, 1900: Military Department of Alaska Established To Support Gold Rush
The U.S. Secretary of War established the Military Department of Alaska, formalizing a stronger federal military presence in the territory. This move was critical for maintaining order and protecting strategic interests in Alaska following the Klondike Gold Rush.
