History of Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska
Fairbanks North Star Borough, located in the heart of Alaska, is known for its role as the gateway to the Alaskan Interior and the Arctic. Established in 1964, the borough is home to the city of Fairbanks, the state’s second-largest city, and serves as a vital hub for transportation, commerce, and military activity. With a rich history that dates back to the gold rush era, Fairbanks North Star Borough has evolved into a vibrant community centered around mining, military, education, and tourism. The borough’s vast wilderness and stunning landscapes offer both residents and visitors a taste of Alaska’s natural beauty.
County Facts
- Founded: January 1, 1964
- Population: Approximately 95,655 (as of 2020 Census)
- Area: 7,361 square miles
- Area Code: 907
- ZIP Codes: 99701-99712, 99714, 99790
- County Seat: Fairbanks
- Major Cities: Fairbanks, North Pole
- Famous Landmarks:
- University of Alaska Fairbanks
- Pioneer Park
- Chena River State Recreation Area
- Aurora Ice Museum
- Eielson Air Force Base
Early History of Fairbanks North Star Borough (Pre-1900)
Indigenous Peoples and Early Inhabitants
Before European exploration, the area that is now Fairbanks North Star Borough was inhabited by the Athabascan people, a group of Native Alaskans who lived along the Tanana River and other rivers in the region. The Athabascan people relied on the area’s abundant natural resources, including fish, game, and plants, to sustain their communities. They developed complex cultural and trading networks, which played a significant role in their survival in the harsh Alaskan climate.
Russian Influence and Early Exploration (1700s)
In the 18th century, Russian explorers arrived in Alaska, establishing fur trading posts across the region. Although Russian settlements were mostly concentrated along the Alaskan coast, Russian explorers occasionally ventured into the Interior. However, significant Russian influence in the Fairbanks area was limited, as the region’s remote location and challenging environment deterred extensive colonization.
Gold Rush and the Founding of Fairbanks (1901-1920)
The Discovery of Gold (1902)
The history of Fairbanks truly began with the discovery of gold. In 1902, Italian prospector Felix Pedro discovered gold in the hills north of the Tanana River, sparking a gold rush that attracted miners from across the United States. The rush led to the rapid establishment of Fairbanks, which was founded by E.T. Barnette in 1901 as a trading post. Barnette had originally intended to set up a trading post along the Yukon River, but after being stranded on the banks of the Tanana River by a riverboat mishap, he instead built his trading post near the gold fields.
Fairbanks as a Gold Rush Town
The discovery of gold transformed Fairbanks into a bustling gold rush town. Miners flocked to the area, leading to the construction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Fairbanks quickly became the economic hub of Interior Alaska, with the town’s population growing rapidly. The Tanana Valley Railroad, constructed in 1905, helped transport goods and people between Fairbanks and nearby mining camps, further fueling the town’s growth.
Military Influence and World War II (1920-1945)
Construction of Ladd Army Airfield (1940)
The strategic importance of Fairbanks became evident during World War II, when the U.S. military recognized the need for an airbase in Alaska. In 1940, Ladd Army Airfield (now Fort Wainwright) was constructed in Fairbanks as part of the U.S. defense against potential Japanese attacks on the Pacific. The airfield played a vital role during the war, serving as a base for aircraft used in the Lend-Lease program, which supplied military equipment to the Soviet Union.
Alaska Highway and Alaska’s Role in the War
The construction of the Alaska Highway in 1942, which connected Alaska to the contiguous United States, further emphasized Fairbanks’ importance as a military and transportation hub. The highway improved the transport of military supplies and personnel and provided a critical overland route for the defense of Alaska. Fairbanks remained a key military base throughout the war, and its population swelled with soldiers and support personnel.
Post-War Development and the Creation of Fairbanks North Star Borough (1945-1964)
Post-War Boom and Economic Growth
Following World War II, Fairbanks experienced a post-war boom as returning soldiers and new settlers moved to the area. The discovery of additional natural resources, including oil and natural gas, contributed to the region’s economic growth. Fairbanks also developed as an important center for education, thanks to the expansion of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, which became the state’s primary higher education institution.
Formation of Fairbanks North Star Borough (1964)
In 1964, the Alaska State Legislature created the Fairbanks North Star Borough as part of a statewide reorganization of local government. The borough’s establishment allowed for better management of services, such as schools, roads, and public utilities, in the rapidly growing region. With Fairbanks as its county seat, the borough has continued to be the cultural, economic, and educational heart of Alaska’s Interior.
Oil Boom and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline (1960s-1980s)
Discovery of Oil and Economic Transformation
The discovery of oil at Prudhoe Bay in 1968 led to significant changes in the economy of Fairbanks North Star Borough. The construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, which began in 1974, brought thousands of workers to Fairbanks, making the city a logistical base for the pipeline project. The pipeline stretched from Prudhoe Bay on the North Slope to the port of Valdez, passing through the Fairbanks region.
Economic and Population Growth
The oil boom spurred rapid growth in Fairbanks and the surrounding areas. The borough’s population increased as workers came to the region seeking jobs in the oil and construction industries. The influx of wealth from the oil industry also contributed to improvements in local infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and transportation systems.
Modern Fairbanks North Star Borough (1990-Present)
Education, Tourism, and Military Presence
In recent decades, Fairbanks North Star Borough has continued to diversify its economy. While oil and natural resource extraction remain important, the borough has expanded into other sectors, including education, tourism, and the military. The University of Alaska Fairbanks remains a major employer and cultural center, attracting students and researchers from around the world. Tourism has also become a key industry, with visitors coming to Fairbanks to see the northern lights, explore the Alaskan wilderness, and learn about the region’s history.
Military Bases and Strategic Importance
The military continues to play a crucial role in the borough’s economy. Fort Wainwright and Eielson Air Force Base, both located within the borough, remain major military installations, contributing to the local economy and population. The region’s strategic location makes it a key part of the U.S. military’s defense strategy, particularly as interest in the Arctic grows.
Famous Landmarks and Attractions
University of Alaska Fairbanks
The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is the state’s flagship university and a major center for research and education in Alaska. UAF is known for its programs in Arctic and sub-Arctic studies, as well as its contributions to environmental and scientific research.
Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park, located in Fairbanks, is a historical theme park that celebrates Alaska’s rich history and culture. The park features museums, historical exhibits, and restored buildings from the early days of Fairbanks, including a replica of an old gold rush town.
Chena River State Recreation Area
Chena River State Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, and boating. The recreation area is located just outside Fairbanks and provides a scenic escape into the Alaskan wilderness.
Aurora Ice Museum
The Aurora Ice Museum, located in nearby Chena Hot Springs, is the world’s largest year-round ice environment. The museum showcases incredible ice sculptures and offers visitors the chance to experience Alaska’s cold beauty in a unique way.
Eielson Air Force Base
Eielson Air Force Base, located southeast of Fairbanks, is a key military installation that plays an important role in U.S. defense operations in the Arctic and Pacific regions. The base contributes significantly to the local economy and population.