History of Kenai Peninsula Borough, Alaska
Kenai Peninsula Borough, located in south-central Alaska, is known for its scenic beauty, rich natural resources, and diverse cultural history. Established in 1964, the borough covers the Kenai Peninsula, a region with deep indigenous roots, Russian influence, and significant contributions to Alaska’s development through industries like fishing, oil, and tourism. The borough is home to major communities such as Kenai, Homer, and Seward, and its economy is driven by commercial fishing, oil production, and tourism. Known as Alaska’s “Playground,” the Kenai Peninsula offers some of the state’s most iconic landscapes and outdoor activities, from fishing to hiking.
County Facts
- Founded: January 1, 1964
- Population: Approximately 58,799 (as of 2020 Census)
- Area: 24,752 square miles
- Area Code: 907
- ZIP Codes: 99603, 99611, 99664, 99669, 99672
- County Seat: Soldotna
- Major Cities: Kenai, Soldotna, Homer, Seward
- Famous Landmarks:
- Kenai Fjords National Park
- Russian River
- Homer Spit
- Exit Glacier
- Alaska SeaLife Center
Early History of Kenai Peninsula Borough (Pre-1800s)
Indigenous Peoples and Early Inhabitants
Long before European exploration, the Kenai Peninsula was inhabited by the Dena’ina Athabascan people. The Dena’ina had lived in the region for thousands of years, developing a complex society based around fishing, hunting, and gathering. The rich waters of Cook Inlet provided abundant salmon and other marine resources, which became central to their culture and economy. The Dena’ina built semi-permanent villages and traded with neighboring indigenous groups, including the Alutiiq people of Prince William Sound and the Yupik of southwestern Alaska.
Russian Exploration and Influence (1700s-1867)
Arrival of Russian Explorers (1741)
Russian explorers and traders, seeking furs, first arrived in Alaska in the 1740s. In 1741, the expedition led by Danish explorer Vitus Bering, sailing under the Russian flag, reached Alaska’s coast, setting the stage for Russian colonization. By the late 1700s, Russian fur traders had established a presence on the Kenai Peninsula. The region’s coastal waters offered abundant sea otters, whose pelts were highly valuable in the international fur trade.
Russian Settlements and the Russian River
The Russian Orthodox Church also established missions in the region, leading to the spread of Christianity among the native populations. The Russian River, a key site for salmon fishing, takes its name from this period, reflecting the lasting influence of Russian settlers on local geography and culture.
Sale of Alaska to the United States (1867)
Russia’s control over Alaska lasted until 1867 when the territory was sold to the United States in what became known as the Alaska Purchase. While Russian settlers left a cultural mark on the region, the fur trade had begun to decline, and the American era brought new economic opportunities and challenges for the Kenai Peninsula.
American Settlement and Development (1867-1900)
Early American Settlement and Commercial Fishing
After the United States acquired Alaska, American settlers began moving into the region, drawn by its natural resources. By the late 1800s, commercial fishing had become one of the most important industries on the Kenai Peninsula. The region’s rivers and coastal waters were filled with salmon, halibut, and other fish, making it a prime location for canneries and fisheries. The town of Kenai, originally a Russian settlement, became a hub for commercial fishing activity.
Gold Rush Era (1890s)
The late 19th century also saw the beginning of Alaska’s gold rushes, including some smaller discoveries on the Kenai Peninsula. Although the major gold rushes occurred in places like the Klondike and Nome, prospectors combed through the Kenai Peninsula’s streams and rivers in search of gold. This period brought more settlers and infrastructure to the region, setting the stage for further development in the 20th century.
Industrial Growth and World War II (1900-1945)
Establishment of the Kenai Peninsula as an Economic Hub
By the early 1900s, the Kenai Peninsula had firmly established itself as an economic hub for Alaska, particularly in the fishing industry. Towns like Kenai and Seward became important centers for processing and shipping fish, with railroads and shipping routes connecting the region to other parts of Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.
Seward and the Alaska Railroad
Seward, founded in 1903, became a critical port and transportation hub due to its ice-free harbor and connection to the Alaska Railroad, which linked Seward to Fairbanks. The railroad facilitated the movement of goods and people throughout the state, helping Seward grow into one of Alaska’s most important towns in the early 20th century.
World War II and Military Presence
During World War II, Alaska’s strategic importance became apparent, and the Kenai Peninsula played a key role in military operations. Seward, in particular, was a crucial supply base for the U.S. military. Fort Raymond, constructed near Seward in 1941, was established to defend the area from potential Japanese attacks, and the region’s transportation infrastructure expanded to support the war effort.
Post-War Development and the Rise of Oil (1945-1970)
Discovery of Oil at Swanson River (1957)
The discovery of oil in Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula marked a major turning point in the region’s history. In 1957, oil was discovered at Swanson River, located near Kenai. This was the first major oil find in Alaska, and it signaled the beginning of Alaska’s oil boom. The Swanson River oil discovery spurred further exploration and development in the Kenai Peninsula and across the state, eventually leading to the discovery of oil at Prudhoe Bay in the 1960s.
Economic and Population Growth
The discovery of oil brought economic growth and new industries to the Kenai Peninsula. Oil refineries and pipelines were built to transport oil to markets, and the region’s economy diversified beyond fishing and tourism. The borough’s population grew rapidly during this time, as workers flocked to the area for jobs in the oil and gas industries.
Formation of the Kenai Peninsula Borough (1964)
In 1964, the Kenai Peninsula Borough was officially formed as part of Alaska’s effort to establish local governments. The borough encompasses the entire peninsula and surrounding areas, with Soldotna serving as its administrative center. The creation of the borough allowed for better management of public services, resources, and infrastructure in the rapidly growing region.
Modern Kenai Peninsula Borough (1970-Present)
Oil, Tourism, and Economic Diversification
In the latter half of the 20th century, the Kenai Peninsula continued to thrive economically, with oil and gas production playing a central role. At the same time, tourism emerged as another key industry, with visitors drawn to the region’s stunning landscapes, including Kenai Fjords National Park and the iconic Exit Glacier. Sport fishing, particularly for salmon and halibut, also became a major attraction, bringing thousands of tourists to the area each year.
Environmental Conservation and Challenges
As the region grew economically, concerns over environmental conservation also increased. The Kenai Peninsula’s rich ecosystems, including its rivers, glaciers, and forests, faced challenges from industrial development and climate change. Efforts to protect key areas, such as the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and Kenai Fjords National Park, have been crucial in preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of the peninsula for future generations.
Famous Landmarks and Attractions
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park, located near Seward, is one of the most stunning natural areas in Alaska. The park is known for its glaciers, fjords, and abundant marine wildlife, including whales, sea otters, and seals. The park’s Exit Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the state, attracting visitors from around the world.
Russian River
The Russian River is famous for its world-class salmon fishing, particularly during the summer months when thousands of anglers flock to the river for sockeye and coho salmon runs. The area also offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Homer Spit
Homer Spit is a long, narrow strip of land that extends into Kachemak Bay. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and tourism. The town of Homer, located at the base of the Spit, is known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World.”
Alaska SeaLife Center
The Alaska SeaLife Center, located in Seward, is Alaska’s premier marine research and rehabilitation facility. It serves as both a public aquarium and a research center, dedicated to the study of Alaska’s marine ecosystems and wildlife.
