This Week In Alaska History: Hyder, AK Burns 6/28/1928

June 28, 1928: Hyder Fire Devastates Town

Modern Day Hyder, AK From British Columbia

A massive fire swept through Hyder, Alaska, destroying the post office, Province Hotel, and other key businesses, causing $100,000 in damages. The blaze, suspected to be arson, marked a significant setback for the small mining community.

June 29, 1978: Wood-Tikchik State Park Established

Wood-Tikchik State Park North of Dillingham

Alaska created Wood-Tikchik State Park, protecting 1.6 million acres of pristine wilderness in the Bristol Bay region. The park, the largest state park in the U.S., preserves vital ecosystems and supports traditional subsistence activities.

June 30, 1958: Senate Passes Alaska Statehood Bill

Sign for the Alaska statehoood campaign in the Sitka Historical Museum

The U.S. Senate voted 64-20 to pass the Alaska Statehood Bill, a crucial step toward Alaska’s admission as the 49th state. The bill, sent to President Eisenhower, followed decades of advocacy and highlighted Alaska’s strategic and economic importance.

July 1, 1935: University of Alaska Officially Founded

The Alaska Agricultural College and School of Mines was officially renamed the University of Alaska through an act of the territorial legislature. This transition marked the beginning of the state’s premier higher education institution, fostering research and education tailored to Alaska’s unique needs.

July 2, 1922: First Radio Broadcast in Alaska Airs from Nome

US Signal Corp Emblem

The first radio broadcast north of the 53rd parallel was transmitted from Nome, installed by Captain C. H. Burkhead of the U.S. Signal Corps. The signal, heard in St. Michael and Nulato, marked a pioneering step in Alaska’s communication history.

July 3, 1913: First Airplane Flight Takes Off in Fairbanks

Fairbanks 10 Years Prior To First Alaska Flight

Army Captain J. V. Martin piloted the first airplane flight in Alaska at Fairbanks, demonstrating the potential of aviation in the territory. This historic flight paved the way for air travel’s critical role in connecting Alaska’s remote communities.

July 4, 1884: John H. Kinkead Appointed Alaska’s First Governor

John Henry Kinkead

John H. Kinkead of Nevada was appointed as Alaska’s first governor, marking the formal organization of the District of Alaska. His appointment established the foundation for U.S. governance in the region following the 1867 purchase from Russia.