You won’t want to miss out on the Oscar Anderson House Museum, located at 420 M Street in downtown. Within Elderberry Park, it’s the first private residence in Anchorage with a wood frame and was constructed in 1915. Today, it’s the only original, historic home still standing in the city. Guided tours show visitors the history of the town, architectural and decorative preferences of the time, and provide a peek into the lives of the Andersons.

Both public and private tours are available. Groups with more than five people can request reservations for a special tour by calling 907-929-9870. Summer hours extend through September, with 45-minute tours available from 12 – 4 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults, and $5 for children and Alaska residents of all ages.

Feel at Home

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, this museum proves that modern day gems are indeed artifacts. The House showcases a number of original family heirlooms along with community-donated pieces. The 1909 Hallet and Davis piano, family photos along the walls, a 1914 Victrola player and gorgeous Sellers Hoosier cabinet are just a few of the most popular items.

Enjoy the built-in buffet that shows off the family china, a well-loved butcher block from Oscar’s butcher shop and plenty of original Swedish wooden items. The Andersons are still in Anchorage, and Oscar’s grandson is a permanent resident. Discover how the origins of Anchorage as we know it now began.