The Way We Were

Nov. 15, 1923

Word was received from John Hooper, president of the Tourists’ Society, that in addition to giving a number of newspaper interviews regarding his trip north, he will set different topics for each address, dwelling principally upon Wrangell and Juneau as the great centers from which tourists can head out for scenic, hunting, fishing or other trips. He will also put up a strong argument for the paper and pulp industry possibilities in the Juneau and Wrangell districts.

Nov. 19, 1948

Lt. Col. J.D. Alexander arrived in Wrangell last Monday, completing a survey for the Army on the advisability of forming a unit of the U.S. National Guard in Alaska. While here, he met with Mayor George Gunderson, American Legion Post Commander Joe Simpson, former Territorial Guard Commander James Lovett, and L. M. Williams Jr. of The Wrangell Sentinel. He explained that if a National Guard unit were formed, a town the size of Wrangell probably would have a platoon, which would be completely equipped and paid by the federal government and commanded and manned by local men. In the event the Army approves the National Guard unit, Col. Alexander added, it will be necessary for the legislature to consider enabling legislation as the unit cannot be formed without permission of the territory.

Nov. 7, 1973

Native dancers and singers performed in their colorful regalia and authentic rites were conducted in the Tlingit language during the dedication Sunday of the refurbished Shakes Community House in Wrangell. The dedication marked the beginning of the 1973 Grand Camp Convention of the Alaska Native Brotherhood and Alaska Native Sisterhood held here this week. Native leaders from throughout Southeast Alaska were among the more than 275 persons who entered the community house to sit in a square and view the hour-long ceremony. Taking a major part in the dedication ceremony were Herb Bradley and Gilbert Gunderson of Wrangell.

Nov. 5, 1998

The Wrangell wrestling team traveled to Ketchikan last weekend, but due to the low number of wrestlers attending the event the Wolves spent the weekend wrestling in non-point and non-placement bouts. On Saturday, the top contenders went to the mat against the Ketchikan varsity members. Andrew Helgeson, at 112 pounds, defeated the all stars but lost to the Ketchikan player. Helgeson is currently ranked second in Southeast. Donnie Steves, at 171, and Tom Wickman, at 189, were both able to pin their Ketchikan opponents. Wickman is now rated No. 1 in Southeast, and Stevens stands in second. Heavyweights Reme Privett and Matt Nore also showed well. Privett beat the other small school contender from Craig, and Nore won three of his four matches.