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House of Wickersham Offers Window into Alaska's American Roots

Added Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012

Alaska may have become the 49th state in 1959, but it has been a part of U.S. history since the late 1800s. Those who are planning Alaska vacations can include the Wickersham State Historic Site in their itineraries to learn more about the history of the Last Frontier.

The House of Wickersham, built in 1898, was once home to James Wickersham, a man who not only kept gold rush prospectors in line, but established Mount McKinley National Park (now known as Denali National Park), the Alaska Railroad and the University of Alaska.

Wickersham initially served as a district judge for Alaska from 1900 to 1908. He later served as the territory's congressional delegate for seven terms, and focused on pursuing statehood and other important legislation for Alaska. He played a major role in obtaining elected legislature under the Organic Act of 1912. Two years later, Wickersham managed to secure funds to build the Alaska Railroad after delivering an impressive five-and-a-half hour speech to Congress.

When "Alaska's advocate" was 45 years old, he became the first white man to attempt to climb the state's tallest peak, Mount McKinley. After this voyage, he worked to establish the mountain and the surrounding area as the national park it is today.

After Wickersham died at age 82 in 1939, his second wife, Grace Bishop, lived in the house until 1963. It then fell into the hands of her niece, Ruth Allman. Allman knew how important her late uncle was to Alaskan history, and so she collected all of his documents, photographs and other personal artifacts and put them on display. She turned her home into a museum, and after 25 years of welcoming visitors through her door, she sold the building to the state.

Travelers who want to learn more about the Alaskan frontiersman before their Alaska tours can pick up a copy of his book, Old Yukon: Tails, Trails and Trial. In this chronicle, Wickersham details not only his experience climbing Mount McKinley, but also his days as a judge and Alaskan delegate to Congress.

Visitors should be sure to stop by the Wickersham House and learn more about one of Alaska's most prominent historical figures. The rooms are filled with period furniture and Wickersham's personal effects are proudly displayed throughout the home, allowing guests to learn more about the man who helped Alaska find its place in America.

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