| Visitor
Guide : Museums
Rika's Roadhouse
Rika's Roadhouse is the centerpiece of Big
Delta State Historical Park. The house served travelers on the
historic Valdez-to-Fairbanks Trail from 1909 to 1947. The north-south
section of this log structure was built by John Hajdukovich in 1909.
The Vadez-to-Fairbanks Trail was being improved at this time and
by 1913 the roadhouse was a center of activity for gold stampeders,
local hunters, traders, and freighters.
In 1917 Hajdukovich hired a Swedish immigrant
named Rika Wallen to operate the roadhouse which prospered under
her management. In 1923 she bought it from Hajdukovich for "$10.00
and other considerations," presumably in lieu of wages. The
roadhouse was named "Rika's" following local custom. Rika
operated the roadhouse through the 1940's, although in later years
guests were by invitation only.
As you walk into present-day Rika's Roadhouse
you will see that part of the original kerosene crate floor has
been restored. The bedroom and kitchen are furnished in the style
of the 1920's and 1930's. Furnishings were donated by local residents
under the auspices of the Delta Historical Society.
Sullivan Roadhouse
The Sullivan Roadhouse Historical Museum is housed
in the oldest roadhouse in the interior of Alaska and is located
in the heart of Delta Junction at the End of the Alaska Highway.
Built in 1905, by John and Florence Sullivan,
the log lodge now houses a museum that focuses on the Valdez-Fairbanks
Trail and the roadhouses that operated along its route. Beautifully
recreated rooms, as well as interpretive exhibits give our visitors
a real feel for life in turn of the century Alaska.
Outside, one can enjoy a garden exploding with
colorful wildflowers, a traditional vegetable garden/potato patch
and interpretive pathways. Located across from the Delta Visitor
Center, the Sullivan is a great stop along the trail of Alaska's
history.
Admission is free.
Open Memorial Day - Mid September.
Hours are 9am - 5:30pm, Monday - Saturday, closed Sundays. |