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Fairbanks, Alaska: Trains, Planes and Automobiles
 he
lively city of Fairbanks is located at an historic confluence
of railroad tracks, pioneer highways, air strips, and riverboats.
The city originated, in fact, in a transportation-related
accident. Low water levels on the Chena River were too much
for a passing riverboat, and passenger E.T. Barnette of
Ohio was dumped at what is now Golden Heart Park. Barnette
went on to start a trading post. Then, a year later, gold
miner Felix Pedro struck gold only 16 miles away - and Fairbanks
quickly became a huge outfitting town. It continues to function
as an outfitting town today, serving many remote Native
Alaskan communities accessible only by air or river. Today,
Fairbanks is a vibrant, enthusiastic community with a strong
and diverse culture. Local people gather in the center of
town for practically any reason - especially to listen to
music. There are bluegrass, classical and Athabascan fiddle
festivals held in Fairbanks every summer. At Golden Heart
Park, local people feel so comfortable with each other that
they often dance on the cobblestones - with complete strangers.
Perhaps best of all, Fairbanksans have a good sense of humor;
they love to poke fun at their Alaskan lifestyle. This is
the Tanana Valley Fair, held in early August. |
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