The Way We Were

April 2, 1925

J.T. Freeburn, who was in the mining game in Alaska for many years, was a guest of the Wrangell Commercial Club at its weekly luncheon Monday. Mr. Freeburn stated that he believes the mining possibilities of Alaska are far greater than is generally realized. He further stated that lead, manganese and other metals which 10 years ago were down in price are now being quoted on the market at considerably increased prices. Mr. Freeburn said there has never been a time when it was easier to get money for the development of legitimate mining prospects, and that he saw no reason why Wrangell should not develop into a mining center.

March 31, 1950

Women’s hats have long been the basis for jokes among the menfolk, but this Sunday will see the ultimate in original designs as Emblem Club members strive to outdo each other in the ridiculous. As a part of the Potluck Super Party starting at 6 p.m., each Emblem Club member will wear an Easter bonnet of her own creation. A fine will be imposed upon each person appearing without the special headgear. Four leading couturiers of the chapeau industry will be on hand to judge the contestants and award prizes. The judges will be Fred Hanford, Art Nelson, Vern Smith and Joseph Barnell.

April 2, 1975

Instrument landing devices were being installed at Wrangell airport this week. The Federal Aviation Administration is equipping the airport with a visual-approach slope indicator system for both ends of the runway; sequence-flashing runway-end identifier lights at both ends of the runway; a localizer approach radio beam for Runway 9, and distance measuring equipment. Bill Boudean, contracting office representative for the Federal Aviation Administration in Anchorage, said the improvements are part of a state plan to ready the Wrangell airport for jet traffic.

April 6, 2000

The U.S. Forest Service has released an update on results of the Wrangell Island analysis workshops held last year, reviewing the status of various programs and projects covered in the workshops. According to the report, written by former District Randy Steve Brady, the workshops were broken into five categories: recreation, the Southeast Transportation Plan, Central Alaska Area Management Plan, timber and roads. The federal roadless initiative, which has prompted attention nationwide and for which a draft document is expected in May or June, may affect construction of new roads on Wrangell Island but no mandate is expected to close existing roads.