50 Years of Alaska Statehood
"We’re in!" read the headline of the Anchorage Daily Time's on June 30, 1958. Earlier that day, the U.S. Senate passed the Alaska statehood bill and set into motion the introduction of the "Great Land" into United States history. Nothing was official however, until President Eisenhower signed the bill on July 7, and the declaration of statehood was signed on January 3, 1959.
Fast forward 50 years, and Alaska is preparing for the biggest celebration the state has seen since.
Travelers will have plenty of opportunities to take part in anniversary events throughout the state — from a grand ball and governor’s dinner in Anchorage to a parade of cars through Ketchikan. Alaska will even premier a float in the Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1. To find more special promotions celebrating Alaska's 50thview our travel specials.
Additionally, Alaskans are flaunting statehood memorabilia in honor of the Last Frontier, such as the new Alaska license plate and the newly minted Alaska state quarter released this August. The Alaska state postage stamp was also unveiled earlier this fall and is set for distribution January 3, 2009.
Read more about Alaska’s 50th anniversary and events occurring throughout the state at http://www.gov.state.ak.us/ASCC.
--excerpted from the Alaska Travel Industry Association Web Site
Hawaii Also Celebrates
In 1959 Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States. For more information about Hawaii's long and varied history, visit the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau site.
Share Your Memories
Do you remember tourism during Alaska and Hawaii's early days of statehood? Share your memories below in our comments box and your submission may be used in future TravelAge West print article. (Don't forget to leave your name and company in the comment box.)
