Alaska, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich natural resources, is also home to several abandoned mining towns. These towns, once bustling with activity and full of life, now stand as eerie reminders of a bygone era. Among these ghost towns, one of the most intriguing is Kennecott, an abandoned copper mining town located in the Copper River Census Area.
Kennecott, also spelled as Kennicott, was once the center of activity for several copper mines in Alaska. The town emerged in the early 20th century following the discovery of abundant copper deposits in the area. In 1903, the Kennecott Mining Corporation was established, and over the years, five mines were operated in the region.
During its prime, the population of Kennecott swelled, with miners and their families making it their home; The town boasted a self-contained community, complete with amenities like a hospital, general store, school, skating rink, tennis court, recreation hall, and even a dairy.
From 1911 to 1938, Kennecott produced nearly $200 million worth of copper. However, the mine’s fortunes began to decline, and by 1938, Kennecott was abandoned by its residents. The dwindling copper reserves and the discovery of new, more accessible mines led to the downfall of this once-prosperous town.
The Historic Significance of Kennecott
Today, Kennecott is recognized as a National Historic Landmark District, preserving its rich mining history for future generations. The abandoned mining structures and buildings in Kennecott provide a glimpse into the past and are a popular attraction for history enthusiasts and adventurers.
Exploring the remnants of Kennecott allows visitors to appreciate the ingenuity and hard work of the miners who worked in these harsh conditions. The iconic concentration mill, which processed the copper ore, stands tall as a testament to the town’s industrial past.
Visiting Kennecott
Reaching Kennecott is an adventure in itself. The town is located beside the Kennicott Glacier, northeast of Valdez, inside Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. Access to Kennecott involves a scenic drive along rugged roads or a thrilling flightseeing tour.
Once in Kennecott, visitors can take guided tours of the abandoned buildings and delve into the history of the mining operations. Some of the key attractions include the concentration mill, the powerhouse, and the old mill town area. The surrounding natural beauty, with the glacier and mountains as the backdrop, adds to the allure of the place.
Preserving Alaska’s Abandoned Mining Towns
Kennecott is just one example of the many abandoned mining towns scattered across the vast Alaskan wilderness. These ghost towns serve as reminders of the region’s rich mining heritage and the challenges faced by those who sought their fortunes in these remote areas.
Preservation and conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these historical sites and their structures. By maintaining and safeguarding these abandoned mining towns, future generations can appreciate and learn from the stories they tell about Alaska’s mining past.