History of Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska
Matanuska-Susitna Borough, commonly known as the “Mat-Su” Borough, is located in south-central Alaska, north of Anchorage. Known for its vast agricultural lands, stunning mountains, and historical connections to homesteading and railroads, the borough has become one of the fastest-growing regions in Alaska. Established in 1964, the borough covers the Matanuska and Susitna valleys, which have long been centers of farming, mining, and outdoor recreation. Over the decades, the region has evolved from a rural farming community to a thriving hub for tourism, industry, and suburban development. Today, the borough is a blend of small towns, wilderness, and rapidly growing urban areas.
Matanuska-Susitna Borough Facts
- Founded: January 1, 1964
- Population: Approximately 110,000 (as of 2020)
- Area: 25,258 square miles
- Area Code: 907
- ZIP Codes: 99645, 99654, 99688, 99694
- Borough Seat: Palmer
- Major Cities: Palmer, Wasilla, Houston, Big Lake, Sutton
- Famous Landmarks:
- Hatcher Pass
- Independence Mine State Historical Park
- Matanuska Glacier
- Iditarod Trail Headquarters
- Pioneer Peak
Early History of Matanuska-Susitna Borough (Pre-1900s)
Dena’ina Athabascan People
Before European settlers arrived, the Matanuska-Susitna Valley was inhabited by the Dena’ina Athabascan people, an Indigenous group that lived in the region for thousands of years. The Dena’ina were semi-nomadic hunters, fishers, and gatherers who relied on the natural resources of the land and rivers for sustenance. They established small villages along the Susitna, Matanuska, and Knik rivers, where they fished for salmon, hunted moose, and gathered berries and other plant materials. The Dena’ina had a deep spiritual connection to the land, and their cultural traditions and knowledge of the region shaped their way of life for generations.
Exploration and Early Settlement (1800s-1920s)
Russian America and Early Trade (1740s-1867)
During the 18th century, Russian explorers were among the first Europeans to explore the Alaskan coastline, although their influence was primarily concentrated in coastal areas. Russian traders and trappers established trading relationships with Indigenous peoples, including the Dena’ina, exchanging furs for goods. However, Russian influence in the interior, including the Mat-Su region, remained limited due to the region’s remoteness.
In 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia in a deal known as the Alaska Purchase. The acquisition marked the beginning of American interest in Alaska’s natural resources and led to increased exploration and settlement throughout the territory. However, the Matanuska-Susitna region remained largely undeveloped in the early years of American control.
Railroad Expansion and Resource Exploration (1890s-1920s)
The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought new opportunities for development in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley with the arrival of American settlers, prospectors, and railroad workers. The discovery of gold in Alaska sparked a wave of exploration, and mining became a significant industry in the region. In the early 1900s, the Alaska Railroad was constructed, linking the region to Anchorage and providing access to markets for natural resources.
The Alaska Railroad’s arrival in the Matanuska-Susitna region played a pivotal role in the area’s growth, as it made transportation and trade more efficient. Small settlements began to spring up along the railroad, serving as supply points for miners and homesteaders. The construction of the railroad also laid the foundation for future agricultural development in the valley.
The Matanuska Colony Project (1930s)
The Matanuska Colony and the Great Depression (1935)
One of the most significant events in the history of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley was the establishment of the Matanuska Colony in 1935 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs. The Matanuska Colony Project was a government initiative designed to help struggling farmers during the Great Depression by relocating them to Alaska to establish self-sustaining farms. Approximately 200 families from the Midwest, primarily from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, were selected to participate in the program and were offered land, equipment, and housing in the Matanuska Valley.
The project was intended to boost agricultural production in Alaska and provide new opportunities for families hit hard by the economic downturn. The colonists, many of whom had no prior experience farming in Alaska’s harsh environment, faced significant challenges, including the cold climate, short growing seasons, and difficulties with transportation and infrastructure. Despite these obstacles, the Matanuska Colony laid the foundation for the agricultural industry that still thrives in the region today.
Agricultural Development
The Matanuska Valley quickly became one of Alaska’s most productive agricultural regions. Colonists planted crops such as potatoes, carrots, cabbages, and dairy products, which supplied local markets and supported the growing population of Anchorage. Over time, agriculture in the valley expanded, and the region became known for its oversized produce, including giant cabbages that are featured annually at the Alaska State Fair in Palmer.
The Matanuska Colony Project also played a key role in the development of Palmer, which became the administrative and commercial center of the colony. Today, Palmer is the borough seat of Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and its agricultural heritage is celebrated through festivals, fairs, and historical landmarks.
World War II and Post-War Expansion (1940s-1960s)
World War II and Military Influence
World War II brought significant changes to Alaska, including the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. The U.S. military recognized the strategic importance of Alaska during the war, leading to increased investment in infrastructure, including roads, airfields, and communication networks. The construction of military bases in nearby Anchorage and the establishment of the Alaska Highway improved access to the Matanuska-Susitna region and spurred economic growth.
The military presence also increased the demand for local agricultural products, as farms in the Matanuska Valley supplied food to the growing military population. The region’s strategic location, combined with its agricultural productivity, solidified its role as an important part of Alaska’s wartime economy.
Post-War Economic Growth
Following World War II, the Matanuska-Susitna region experienced a period of economic growth and development. The construction of new roads, schools, and public services helped support the expanding population, and the area became more connected to Anchorage and other parts of Alaska. The introduction of improved farming techniques and machinery allowed local farms to increase their productivity, further boosting the agricultural economy.
During this period, the region also became a popular destination for homesteaders seeking land and opportunities in Alaska. The Homestead Act, which offered free land to settlers willing to develop it, attracted new residents to the Mat-Su Valley, contributing to its growing population.
Formation of Matanuska-Susitna Borough and Modern Development (1960s-Present)
Borough Formation (1964)
The Matanuska-Susitna Borough was officially incorporated on January 1, 1964, as part of Alaska’s statewide effort to establish local governments with greater control over land use, infrastructure, and public services. The borough’s creation allowed residents to manage local resources and plan for the future growth of the region.
Palmer, with its roots in the Matanuska Colony Project, became the borough seat, serving as the administrative center for the surrounding communities. The incorporation of the borough marked a new phase of development, as the region continued to grow both economically and demographically.
Growth of Wasilla and Urban Expansion
In the decades following the formation of the borough, Wasilla, originally a small town along the Alaska Railroad, experienced rapid growth and development. By the 1980s and 1990s, Wasilla had become a hub for retail, services, and transportation in the borough. Its proximity to Anchorage, combined with its more affordable housing and larger available land, made it an attractive destination for families and businesses looking to relocate.
Wasilla’s growth transformed the Mat-Su Borough from a primarily rural, agricultural region into a suburban extension of Anchorage. The area’s population surged, with new residential developments, shopping centers, and schools emerging to accommodate the influx of new residents.
Modern Industry and Economic Development
Tourism and Outdoor Recreation
Tourism has become an increasingly important part of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough’s economy in recent decades. The region’s stunning natural beauty, including mountains, glaciers, rivers, and wildlife, draws visitors from around the world. Popular tourist destinations include Hatcher Pass, Matanuska Glacier, and the Iditarod Trail Headquarters in Wasilla, which celebrates Alaska’s famous sled dog race.
The borough’s abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, fishing, skiing, and wildlife viewing, have also made it a key destination for adventure tourism. State parks, including Denali State Park, are popular attractions that showcase the region’s wilderness.
Agriculture and Local Food Production
While the borough’s economy has diversified, agriculture remains an important industry in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. Local farms continue to produce a wide variety of crops, including vegetables, berries, and livestock. The Alaska State Fair, held annually in Palmer, celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage and showcases the unique produce grown in the valley, including giant pumpkins and cabbages.
In addition to traditional agriculture, the region has seen growth in small-scale, sustainable farming and the local food movement. Farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs have become popular ways for residents to access fresh, locally grown food.
Energy and Resource Development
The Matanuska-Susitna Borough has also played a role in Alaska’s energy and resource development. The region is home to several natural gas fields and coal deposits, which have been explored and developed to meet the state’s energy needs. Renewable energy projects, including wind and hydroelectric power, have also been considered to diversify the borough’s energy portfolio.
Cultural and Historical Landmarks in Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Hatcher Pass and Independence Mine State Historical Park
Hatcher Pass is a scenic mountain pass located north of Palmer and is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. The area is also home to the Independence Mine State Historical Park, which preserves the remains of a gold mining operation that was active in the early 20th century. The park offers visitors a glimpse into Alaska’s mining history and features historic buildings, interpretive exhibits, and hiking trails.
Matanuska Glacier
Matanuska Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in Alaska accessible by road, is a major tourist attraction in the borough. Visitors can explore the glacier through guided tours, offering opportunities for ice climbing, hiking, and photography. The glacier’s stunning blue ice and vast expanse make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Iditarod Trail Headquarters
The Iditarod Trail Headquarters in Wasilla celebrates the history of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, one of Alaska’s most famous sporting events. The headquarters features exhibits on the history of the race, sled dog demonstrations, and memorabilia from past races. It is a popular stop for visitors interested in learning more about Alaska’s sled dog culture and the Iditarod’s role in Alaskan history.
Pioneer Peak
Pioneer Peak is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, with its rugged peak dominating the landscape. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers, offering challenging trails and spectacular views of the surrounding valley.
Present-Day Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Matanuska-Susitna Borough has a population of approximately 110,000 people, making it one of the fastest-growing regions in Alaska. The borough’s population is spread across small towns, suburban developments, and rural areas, with Palmer and Wasilla serving as the largest urban centers. The population is diverse, with a mix of long-time residents, newcomers, and seasonal workers.
Economy and Infrastructure
The economy of Matanuska-Susitna Borough is driven by a combination of agriculture, tourism, retail, and resource development. The borough’s proximity to Anchorage, combined with its affordable housing and outdoor recreational opportunities, has made it an attractive destination for families and businesses. Infrastructure improvements, including new roads, schools, and public services, have helped support the region’s rapid growth.
