Garden City Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Southeast Alaska lies Skagway, a town with a horticultural legacy as rich and colorful as its blooms. But what is the story behind Skagway's title as the "Garden City of Alaska?" Let's journey through the town's history and discover the roots of this verdant marvel.  

Beginnings in the Gold Rush

The tale begins in 1916 when Dr. I.S. Keller, a dentist and columnist for the Daily Alaskan, a local newspaper, started championing Skagway's gardens. But the seeds of this legacy were sown much earlier, in 1897, when the stampeders (gold-seekers) during the Klondike gold rush first set foot in Skagway.  

As they sought fortune in the form of gleaming gold, they also recognized the golden opportunity the land presented for cultivation. The town's long daylight hours, nurturing sunshine, and patches of rich soil made it a haven for a wide range of produce and flowers. Vegetables took root, and the community's commitment to gardening blossomed.  

A Town-Wide Passion

The passion for gardening in Skagway was so infectious that by 1902, the town saw its first city-wide gardening contest, an initiative of Skagway jeweler Herman Kirmse. Residents weren't merely cultivating gardens for pleasure; they were striving for self-sustainability. This endeavor reached a pinnacle in 1901 when the Skagway Chamber of Commerce proudly showcased its agricultural produce at the Portland Exposition.

By 1909, Skagway's floral wonders made their mark at the Alaska-Yukon Exposition in Seattle. Among the pioneers of Skagway's horticultural renaissance were Henry C. Clark, the "Rhubarb King," and Charles O. Walker. Their exceptional produce and flowers weren't just the talk of the town; they became symbols of Skagway's burgeoning green movement.

Gardens Beyond Borders

But it wasn't just the residents who were passionate about Skagway's gardens. Visitors became the unsuspecting ambassadors, taking tales of its splendor beyond Alaska's borders. In a promotional effort in 1906, the White Pass & Yukon Railroad painted a vivid picture of Skagway, describing it as a realm of "a profusion of flowers, trim lawns, and prolific gardens."

The period between the World Wars saw Skagway's gardens gain international acclaim. With its world-record dahlia from 1929, the Blanchard Garden became a magnet for tourists. Hoteliers like George and Clara Dedman of the Golden North and Harriet Pullen of the Pullen House provided memorable stays and delighted guests with their exquisite floral displays. The Pullen farm in Dyea took the farm-to-table concept to heart, supplying fresh milk and vegetables to the hotel's patrons.

Challenges and Resilience

However, like all tales, Skagway's gardening story had its challenges. World War II brought with it an influx of U.S. military service members. The once-flourishing gardens gave way to Quonset huts and tents, disrupting Skagway's historic gardening rhythm. The spaces that once echoed with the rustling of leaves and the fragrance of blooms now bore the weight of war.

But Skagway's spirit was indomitable. Fifty years post-war, the town, staying true to its roots, embarked on a journey of horticultural revival. The gardens bloomed again, and Skagway reclaimed its title with pride and joy as the "Garden City of Alaska."

A Legacy in Full Bloom

Skagway is more than just a town with beautiful gardens; it's a testament to the spirit of a community that has weathered storms, celebrated victories, and always returned to its roots.

Its gardens are symbols of hope, resilience, and the unyielding bond between nature and humankind. As you meander through the pathways of Skagway, let the fragrances guide you, and let every petal whisper tales of the past.

When you depart, you won't just leave with memories of a picturesque town but with inspiration drawn from its enduring green legacy. If Alaska is the Last Frontier, then Skagway is its blooming heart. Come, experience, and be forever touched by the Garden City's verdant embrace.