While on assignment in Alaska in 2012, I wrote this article (presented here in 3 parts) on the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous.
The time was an exceptionally brutal and cold winter in late February 1935. It was twenty-four years before Alaska became a State of the Union and only fifteen years after Anchorage became an official city. But as was the custom of the times, old time grizzled fur trappers and miners from the Alaskan wilderness would descend upon that small township of 3,000. Not only to replenish their supplies and rekindle spirits, but to trade their winter wares.
This was a much-anticipated occurrence and to coincide with this beloved annual event, the good people of Anchorage established a three-day Winter Carnival. With of course the main attraction being the Fur Auction, for trappers to ply their trade. Trapping contests were held, and prizes were awarded for the longest fox, the best fox and the finest ermine pelts. Other official events included sports tournaments featuring hockey, skiing, boxing and a children’s dog sled race down Fourth Avenue.
Each day would conclude with a torchlight parade and communal bonfire where the entire community would participate. In 1938 it was renamed to Fur Rendezvous to attract more of the fur buyers due in large part to the economic importance of the Alaskan fur trade.
Seventy-seven years later this annual celebration is alive and well. Today it is known throughout the world as the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous, or simply the Fur Rondy. This year it occurs in the streets of downtown Anchorage and runs from February 24th through March 4th. It has developed into a ten-day international Alaskan cultural event attracting visitors from all over the world. With over 120 popular attractions it ranks among the top ten of world-wide Winter Festivals.
to be continued