SS Nenana; Camera: Widelux; Film: Kodak T-Max100
The Fairbanks North Star Borough has recently proposed dismantling the historic sternwheeler.
I knew something was up. Several contractors I’ve talked with were willing to donate time & resources to the ship’s restoration, which would be added to grants and fundraising, but the Borough was obviously stalling, and we were convinced they just wanted to look the other way until nature takes over.
In all honesty, Fairbanks is terrible when it comes to valuing its history. Fairbanks has only existed since 1904, so its not like it’s an overwhelming time frame.
So for my readers in Fairbanks, drop the Borough Assembly an email if you’d like to see the Nenana remain the centerpiece of Pioneer Park. Don’t hold your breath for a response. Of the nine members plus the mayor, only two bothered to respond to my inquiries.
An Assembly meeting on the subject is slated for January 16.
Click the link for FNSB assembly member contact info:
