Palmer Alaska Picker Finale!

It was the best of times and the worst of times. The big auction this past weekend in Palmer was full of joy and loss. The Alaska Picker has closed but we reflect on how his building has housed so many iconic items from “old Alaska” and specifically the Palmer area. It always felt like a living museum instead of a shopping place. There was always a genuine feeling of curiosity in the building and around every corner would be surprises or memories. Owners Kelly and Becky have done a lot for our town and the Alaska Pickers was a wonderful place. We thank them for their sharing and we wish them well in their travels and relocation.

Underground Palmer—Last week was the last Underground Palmer Tour for a while. It was organized and hosted by Kelly Turney. He took participants down stairwells into the deep bowels below Palmer. These were utilidors which served to heat the buildings by steam in the early years of Palmer’s organization. There were remnants and memories of a variety of underground retail and civic establishments, including a cocktail lounge, jail cells, barber and beauty shop, among other interesting occupations. The tour included underground parts of the Colony Inn, Car-quest Auto, City of Palmer, Depot, Bleeding Heart Brewery, Matanuska Brewery, and some secret spots along with the grain elevator. The Palmer Museum of History and Art does some additional Palmer tours. We are so lucky to learn about all parts of our community and region’s history. Hopefully more and more historical tours will become available.

Palmer’s Oldest Business—Kopperud Transportation was the discussion topic at last week’s Palmer Historical Society. Leif Kopperud told stories about his family business founded 80 years ago. It is one of Alaska’s oldest trucking companies which started shortly after World War II. Leif’s oral presentation of the family and business history offered a fascinating glimpse into the territorial days. Learning about other’s history first-hand is a genuine opportunity. Mr. Kopperud shared some valuable philosophical thoughts in addition to his history. He marveled at the size of his Alaska and at the minimal road miles available in the 40’s. He explained the necessity of being in the service industry and how “being of service” was both an honorable and noble calling. He explained that where ever his truck yard resided, he always checked the health of the neighboring vegetation—because that would tell him if he was being a good steward of his area. He also talked about the concept of “the end of the road.” His perspective about building and exploring was likened to an incredible opportunity to learn and create possibilities. Mr. Kopperud’s presentation was authentic and genuine. Thank you Leif Kopperud and the Palmer Historical Society.

So Much Fixing—It seems like everyone is fixing something. Sheds, driveways, gardens, patios, roofs. It’s the season for repair. And that is seen clearly in the road construction and park and trail repair. Palmer is also fixing up the library, the little engine canopy, water tower and the tennis courts. Graffiti is being removed. A lot of these various projects are funded privately and there are many volunteers involved in these or other public projects. It is a wonderful thing to see our community step up and fix personal things and public things. It shows care. Vandals may strike but the Community will win out and mentor care of our place.

Coming Up in Palmer—This weekend is the Extreme Bulls Rodeo at the Alaska State Fair Grounds. There are now TWO Palmer pianos ready for play. The Rose Tree of China and the tulips own this week in Palmer. Bikes and dogs and children and walkers are out in big numbers. The Museum has some rental bikes now! Please be careful of all the pedestrian activity which makes our community gentle and friendly. Enjoy all the live music this weekend!!!

Barbara Hunt is both Palmer writer and artist. She works hard to keep the robust pulse of Palmer, Alaska. She shares the good stuff in the weekly Palmer Alaska Buzz Column in the Mat Su Valley Frontiersman and daily on the Palmer Alaska Buzz Facebook Group. Her “Palmer Buzz 2022 Community Calendar” is available at NonEssentials on Main Street. Contact at bhunt@mtaonline.net or text 907.315.3222