Knik Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Knik Site
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The surviving cabin at Knik
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 Location in Alaska
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| Location | Along South Knik Goose Bay Road, about 13 miles (21 km) southwest of Wasilla, Alaska |
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| Area | 9 acres (3.6 ha) |
| Built | 1898 |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000379 |
| Added to NRHP | July 24, 1973 |
The Knik Site, known in the Dena'ina as K'enakatnu, was once the biggest town on Cook Inlet in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska. It is also called the Old Knik Townsite. Today, only a few things remain from this historic community. You can still see an old log roadhouse, which is now a museum run by the Wasilla-Knik Historical Society. There is also a log cabin.
The Knik area was a popular meeting spot for Native Alaskans for a long time. In 1898, it became a very important place for shipping goods into Alaska's interior. This meant Knik was a busy hub for trade and travel.
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The Rise and Fall of Knik Town
How Knik Became a Major Trading Hub
Knik's location made it perfect for trade. Goods arrived by boat on Cook Inlet. From Knik, these goods were then sent further inland. This made Knik a central point for many people. It was a bustling town with stores and places for travelers to stay.
The Railroad Changes Everything
In 1916, the Alaska Railroad was built. It reached a new spot that would become Anchorage. This new railroad route bypassed Knik. As a result, Anchorage started to grow quickly. Knik began to lose its importance.
Later, the railroad also reached Wasilla. This meant Knik was no longer needed as a shipping point. Many of its buildings were left empty. Some were even moved to other towns. Knik is now located about 13 miles (21 km) southwest of Wasilla.
Preserving Knik's History
Historic Buildings at Knik Site
The two remaining buildings at the Knik Site are very special. They help us remember what the town was like. In 1973, these buildings were added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means they are protected because of their historical value. The old roadhouse now serves as a museum. It teaches visitors about Knik's past.
Images for kids
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The surviving cabin at Knik
