This Week In Alaska History 8/8-8/15 - Will Rogers Dies In A Plane Crash Near Utqiaġvik

This Week in Alaska History: August 8–August 15

August 8, 1953: Fairbanks International Airport Opens (Fairbanks)

Aircraft departing Fairbanks 2021

Fairbanks International Airport officially opens, replacing Weeks Field as the primary airport for Alaska’s interior. The new facility supports growing air travel and cargo needs, boosting Fairbanks’ role as a hub for commerce and tourism in the post-World War II era.

August 9, 1867: U.S. Takes Possession of Alaska (Sitka)

Baranaoff Castle 1889 - Photo From: Alaska State Library/Alaska National Parks

Following the purchase of Alaska from Russia, the formal transfer of the territory occurs in Sitka with a flag-raising ceremony. Known as “Alaska Day,” this event marks the beginning of American governance in the region, setting the stage for future development and statehood.

August 10, 1900: Skagway Incorporated as Alaska’s First City (Skagway)

2 years prior to Skagway incorporating - Men stand in front of gangster Jeff "Soapy" Smith's Parlor

Skagway is incorporated as Alaska’s first city, a legacy of its prominence during the Klondike Gold Rush. The incorporation establishes local governance, solidifying Skagway’s role as a key port and gateway to the Yukon.

August 11, 1965: Alaska’s First State Ferry System Begins Operations (Southeast Alaska)

Map showing the Alaska Marine Highway System

The Alaska Marine Highway System launches its first regular ferry service, connecting communities in Southeast Alaska, such as Ketchikan and Juneau. This vital transportation network enhances access to remote coastal towns, fostering economic and social ties across the state’s panhandle.

August 12, 1985: Red Dog Mine Begins Operations (Northwest Arctic)

Location in Northwest Arctic Borough and the state of Alaska

The Red Dog Mine, one of the world’s largest zinc and lead mines, starts production near Kotzebue. Operated in partnership with the NANA Regional Corporation, the mine becomes a cornerstone of Alaska’s economy and a model for Native corporation involvement in resource development, significantly impacting the region’s prosperity.

August 13, 1935: Will Rogers and Wiley Post Die in Plane Crash (Barrow)

Rogers on the wing of a Lockheed floatplane belonging to famed aviation pioneer Wiley Post hours before their fatal crash

Humorist Will Rogers and aviator Wiley Post perish in a plane crash near Barrow (now Utqiaġvik) during a flight to explore an air route to Russia. The tragedy draws national attention to Alaska’s aviation challenges and highlights its remote, rugged nature.

August 14, 1971: Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act Implementation Begins (Statewide)

Regional corporations established by the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act

The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), signed into law in December 1971, begins its early implementation phase with the formation of Native corporations. This landmark legislation resolves land claims, transfers 44 million acres to Alaska Natives, and shapes the state’s economic and cultural landscape for decades.

August 15, 1958: USS Nautilus Transits Under Arctic Ice (North Pole)

USS Nautilus during its initial sea trials, 20 January 1955

The USS Nautilus, the U.S. Navy’s first nuclear-powered submarine, completes the first submerged transit under the Arctic ice cap, passing near Alaska’s North Slope. This historic voyage demonstrates advanced naval technology and highlights Alaska’s proximity to strategic Arctic routes during the Cold War.