1905 – While a crew of the Alaska Electric Light & Power Company was laying a new electric cable to Douglas yesterday, it had an encounter with a whale. At first the big mammal merely showed curiosity in the proceedings, but after watching awhile it moved in and grasped the cable in its mouth and took a couple of twists. It was either unwilling or unable to let go-until the electricity was turned on in the cable. Then it immediately released its hold and took off down the channel. Gastineau Bygones – 11/14/1980
1914 – It is a busy social week in Douglas. Last night the Caledonian Club had a big celebration with a banquet and dance. At the same time, the Scandinavian Club was holding a dance in the Odd Fellows Hall. There is a special movie on at the Treadwell Club and the Douglas Fire Department is meeting tonight with a four-reel movie after the meeting. The Serbian Club is planning a dance for tomorrow night at the Eagles Hall. Gastineau Bygones – 08/25/1978
1921 – Alaska’s first pulp mill began operations at Speel River, Port Snettisham, south of Juneau. “Today in Alaskan History…”
1960 – State Sen. Bo Smith was the first legislator to move into the brand new $250,000 Gold Lodge Apartments, just completed in time to specifically furnish housing for legislators. A group of 11 Juneau businessmen funded the 27 apartment complex in response to previous criticisms of Juneau’s chronic housing shortage. Situated near the mouth of Gold Creek, the three room efficiency apartments are stylishly furnished in modern Danish-style furniture, wall-to-wall carpets, and efficiency kitchens. Legislators get rental priority before any other units will be made available to the general public. It is hoped that it can also serve as a motel during the summer tourist season. Daily Alaska Empire – 01/2471960
1963 – The M/V Malaspina, the first of the Alaska Marine Highway system’s ferries, arrived in Juneau on its maiden voyage. Juneau 1980 Centennial Calendar
1979 – Capital city entrepreneur Chuck Keen threatened to go to court over his proposed tramway to the top of Mt. Juneau, wanting the local officials to lower the wind design requirements from 210 to 175 mph for his proposed $10 million tram and convention center. “Today in Alaskan History…”
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