ALASKA MOTORING HISTORY
Here at the Fountainhead Museum you can learn about the rich and entertaining history of the automobile in Alaska following the Gold Rush. Exhibits, archival movie footage and an impressive display of historic photographs illustrate the challenges faced by our pioneering motorists. You’ll also see examples of how Alaskans modified vehicles to travel on snow, cut firewood, ride the rails and even power a paddlewheel boat down the Yukon River.
Four original Alaska vehicles, including the very first automobile in Alaska, are housed in the museum. Examples of other early Alaska vehicles, including Franklin and White Steam cars, Model Ts and a steam traction engine are also on display. Outside you’ll find a huge Fairbanks-Morse engine that once powered Alaska’s first telegraph system.
Our Alaska Gallery features a special exhibit on the historic Fairbanks-Valdez Trail, including a replica of the original Sourdough Roadhouse. Here you can don period clothing and climb into one of our old cars to have your photo taken in front of the roadhouse. Don’t forget your camera!