Creator
Kelly Turney
Time Period
Various
Entries
59

Turney Collection

Richard Estelle
Palmer Museum of History and Art
Open Finding Aid
About the​​​ 
Turney Collection

Palmer resident Kelley Turney was a local antique dealer and collector, known as "The Alaska Picker", and from time to time acquired historical photos of the area. He kindly agreed to make many of those images available to the Museum for our collections and to share with the public.

The image is of a two-engine cargo plane, number N67931, parked on the ground.  On the nose is painted an image of a winged bull in flight with partially legible words under it identifying the name of the plane as the "Flying Bull".  On the side of the plane neat the tail are the words "Palmer Cold Storage" "Palmer, Alaska".  The plane was used during the 1950's to haul beef carcasses from Chirikof Island near Kodiak to Palmer Cold Storage for processing.
Image is an interior view of the Tropical Gardens Bar in Palmer.  Ruby and Bill Miller, proprietors from 1959 until 1962, are standing behind the bar at left.
Image is an interior view of the Frontier Cafe in Palmer as it appeared about 1960.
Image is a view of the interior sanctuary of the log St. Michaels Catholic Church in Palmer as it appeared not long after it was construction in 1937.  Statues, pictures and other religious objects are apparent.
This is a slightly enhanced news photo showing Matanuska Colonists sorting through the boxes, barrels, trunks and crates of possessions off-loaded from the train at Palmer and stacked along the tracks, claiming their own and loading them on a truck to be delivered to their tents.  The marks on the photo indicate how it would be cropped for printing in the newspaper.
A summer view of the Co-op Creamery loading dock area with a man in uniform, possibly Palmer policeman Bill Bouwens, standing on the ground gesturing and apparently talking with someone inside the open door.  Numerous milk delivery cans are stacked on the dock, likely empty ones awaiting return to the dairy farmers to be re-filled.  A partial view of a late 1940's era car is visible parked at right.
This image is an interior view of the Co-op store drygoods department after the store moved into the vacated warehouse building from the Trading Post in 1940.  Four women are visible, two shoppers and two employees, including Colonist Irene Benson, Manager, at far right.
Christmas ornaments decorate the Drygoods department of the Co-op Store while several men and women and a child shop and two clerks check out the purchases and wrap the presents.
The image is of the front door and deck of the new warehouse showing notices posted on the front door, the decking along the side, the post and rail at the top of the steps leading up to the deck and front door, and a man bringing a dolly loaded with sacks feed forward to the loading dock.  A rail car is visible next to the deck at right.
This view shows the storage area (empty) in the attic of the warehouse and construction details of the building.
This image is of some of the long (deep) wooden storage bins in the Co-op Warehouse used to hold the stock of pipes and other long items.
The image is of an array of empty wooden bins of various sizes in the Co-op Warehouse used to hold small items and parts.
Image is a summer view of a Matanuska Colony house, barn and outbuildings, identified as belonging to Colonists Ferber and Ruth Bailey on tract #152 located on the northern outskirts of Palmer.  The foreground is a harvested grain field partially disked.  The barn would later be moved forward past the house to allow the Glenn Highway to be straightened by cutting through “Bailey Hill” at the location where the barn is shown in this photo.
Image is a summer view of the Colony home and barn of Virgil and Lillian Eckert on their farm tract #100 on the north edge of Palmer.  The house is of the log “cabin” style as were many of the Colony homes.  The round-roofed barn was not typical of the Colony barns and was one of only three or four constructed of that style.  A smaller log building is visible behind the house.  Scattered birch trees are around the farmstead with heavy birch forest beyond.
This is a press photo exhibiting marks indicating where it was cropped for publication in the newspaper.  Image is a summer view of Joe and Blanche Puhl and their two sons at a wood pile next to their Colony tent and their new log home on farm tract #99 on the north side of Palmer.  Rolls of barbed wire are stacked by the tent and blocks of birch wood await in the foreground to be split for fire wood.
A color easterly view from downtown Palmer features the water tower and the Co-op garage in middle ground and portions of other buildings behind.  Water puddles in foreground and considerable remnant snow on the background mountains indicate early spring.  White clouds frame the mountains with blue sky above.  Bulk fuel tanks are partially visible at far left.  Two fuel tank rail cars are visible below the water tower.  Gas pumps are visible at the right and two trucks and a car are parked next to the garage.  A man is walking along the foreground gravel street.
This color view looking east at the corner of Valley Way and Elmwood Ave. show part of the Co-op garage at left foreground, the post office and parts of the school and other Community Center buildings.  Several automobiles are parked along Elmwood (referred to then as "Market Street").  The eastern Chugach Mountains form the background, heavily snow-clad white under a clear blue sky.  A woman is visible walking down the street.
This image is a summer view of the north side of the new Trading Post building under construction with the lower portion framed in and framing has begun on the middle section second story.  Siding has begin on the eastern portion.  Lumber is lain out on the ground and several workers are evident.  Scattered trees form the background.
This image shows the north side of the Trading Post building after its store function was moved across the street to the vacated first warehouse in 1940.  The attached sign indicates that the building had become the Recreation Center (referred to as the "Rec. Hall") and housed a fountain lunch counter and barbershop in addition to some small offices and space for dances, card parties and other small social gatherings.  A 1940's era pickup truck is parked in front.
This is a high oblique aerial view of the Palmer Community Center Co-op complex and surrounding area seen from the northwest.  The Co-op "Skater Girl" logo is visible on the water tower and the peaked roof om the school addition is not yet in place.  Both the grain elevator and the silo are in place.
This low oblique shows the new Trading Post in foreground, the school with construction scaffold still in place, the Dorm and Hospital beyond.  The faded mountains in background exhibit a definite snow line indicating this is probably an early fall image.
The Community Center Dormitory was initially built to provide housing for single teachers, nurses and others during the early days of the Colony.  It later provided public hotel rooms under private ownership.  The accommodations included a community “living room” with a fireplace and space for small gatherings.  This image shows how that room was furnished in 1969.
Image is of a farmer, identified as Colonist Claire Patton, and a horse, identified as “Prince”, standing in a field of tilled ground, pausing in the process of harrowing.  Part of a log building is visible behind the horse.  A fringe of forest is in far middle ground and mountains are visible in background.  Location is assumed to be on Patton’s Colony tract #49 south of Palmer.  The horse, “Prince”, was the youngest stud horse brought to the Colony, and was well known as highly intelligent and capable in any kind of work.
Image is a summer street-side view from W. Evergreen Ave. of the Palmer Fire Department Fire Hall as it appeared in 1955.
Image is of a vintage American-LaFrance fire truck parked on the west side of the Palmer theater building.  A child is visible on the seat at the steering wheel, his trusty cap pistol ready at hand on the seat beside him.   “ALASKA RAILROAD FIRE DEPARTMENT” is stamped on the engine hood, and a U.S. Federal property decal, visible on the side of the foot rest, is a reminder that at the time this truck was part of the railroad fleet, that railroad was still owned and operated by the federal government.  Various information indicates the model year of this truck as 1909 or 1916.  Other photos in our collection show this truck at the Lazy Mountain Children’s Home.  Further research is needed to identify the truck’s history, age and current status.
Image is a view across the Community Center quad, west toward the commercial center buildings of Palmer as a large column of smoke rises from Horton’s Roadhouse as it burned in 1946. Numerous people and vehicles are visible.  Also destroyed besides Horton's Roadhouse, or apartments, were Horton's Cafe, the Frontier Bar and the Frontier Liquor Store.
Image is a frontal oblique view of five buildings along Matanuska's main street.  Signage identifies O.O. Krogh General Merchandise store and Post Office, and Allen's Liquor Store.  A man and a tricycle stand on the boardwalk in front of Krogh's store.
Image is a view of a shed-roofed building with three nine-pane windows and two small high windows that appear to have bars.  A sign at the entrance identifies it as headquarters for the U.S. Marshall and Corporation Police.  The photographer’s note on the front of the print indicate it was the Palmer “City Jail”.  It appears to be a temporary and hastily constructed facility in the early days of the Matanuska Colony project in Palmer.
Image is an east side street view of the two storied Bert’s Drugstore building exhibiting signs and window advertisements for a variety of businesses therein, including Rexall Drugs, Soda Fountain, Post Office, Barbershop, Bus Depot, Jewelry, Liquor Store and Bar.  Two automobiles are parked in front.
Image is of the east face street view of the Ward building in downtown Palmer.  Signs include advertisement for Reed’s Hardware, Frontier Bar and a café.  A car is parked in front.
Image is of the east face street view of Tost’s Service Station building in downtown Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  Signs are evident advertising Standard Oil products and Chevron gasoline.  The street in front is newly paved.
Image is the street view of the north and west facing sides of Kirk’s Sales & Service Station building in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  Signs are evident advertising Chevrolet and Oldsmobile automobiles and Union Oil products.  Gas pumps are visible in front of both sides of the building.  Bulk fuel tanks are evident behind the building exhibiting a large “76” sign. The street in front is newly paved.
Image is the street view of the north and west facing sides of Hartley Motors Sales & Service Station building at the intersection of Old Glenn Highway and South Valley Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  Signs are evident advertising Ford automobiles, lubrication services and Chevron Oil products.  Gas pumps are visible in front of the building.   Automobiles are parked near the building. Snow-clad mountains are partially visible in background.  The street in front is newly paved.
Image is an easterly view at the intersection of South Valley Way and Dahlia Ave. in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  Buildings of the Co-op are evident at left and signs are visible.  Automobiles are evident. Snow-clad mountains are prominent in background.  The included streets are newly paved.
Image is of the Piggly Wiggly Super Market facing onto South Alaska Street in Palmer as it appeared in 1955.   Automobiles are parked in front and signs are evident.
Image is of the Piggly Wiggly Super Market facing onto South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.   Automobiles are parked in front and signs are evident.  The street is newly paved.
Image is of the Thrifty Variety Store facing onto South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.   Automobiles are parked in front and signs are evident.  The street is newly paved.
Image is the south view along South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958, viewed from the intersection with W. Evergreen Ave.   Automobiles are parallel parked on both sides of the street, signs are evident and tall TV antennas are visible.  The street is newly paved.
Image is the north view along South Alaska Street in Palmer, viewed from the intersection with W. Evergreen Ave., as it appeared in fall of 1958.   Automobiles are parked along newly installed curbs and sidewalks on the recently paves street.   Signs are evident and snow-clad Talkeetna Mountains are apparent in background.
Image is the south view along South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1955, viewed from near the intersection with W. Evergreen Ave.   Automobiles are angle parked on both sides of the street, signs are evident and tall TV antennas are visible on the roofs.
Image is the east side of Koslosky’s Department Store facing South Alaska Street in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.   Automobiles are parked along newly installed curbs and sidewalks on the recently paves street.   Signs are prominent
Image is of the southwest entry and west side of the Palmer Drug Store on South Alaska Street in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  The new sidewalk associated with the recently paved street is evident.   The Palmer Drug Fountain sign is prominent.
Image is a street-side view from S. Colony Way of the sidewalk and building window advertising the “Matanuska Valley Bank” and partial view of another window advertising “Savings”.  Two cars are parallel parked in front at the curb of the newly paved street.
Image is a view of Pioneer Apartments and Kirk’s Sales & Service at the intersection of Glenn Highway and S. Valley Way.  A sign is prominent in foreground with an arrow pointing to “Palmer Shopping Center”.  New pavement on S. Valley Way is evident as part of the city street paving project of 1958.  Three vehicles are evident.
Image is a view of the front of Betty’s Dress Shop on S. Valley Way.  A neon sign, “BETTY’S” is prominent under the canopy covering the new sidewalk associated with recent street paving activity carried out by the city in 1958.
Image is a view of numerous automobiles parked in front of businesses along S. Valley Way.  A man stands in foreground looking away.   Many signs are visible.  The railroad depot is evident and two trains are visible nearby.
Image is a street scene of people at the front of "Bert's Liquor" store and the "Palmer Cocktail Bar" in Palmer.  Three men in dress clothes are in foreground with backs to the camera.  A woman stands on the wooden sidewalk facing the camera dressed in a skirt, full length coat and hat.  The front fender of a period car is visible in the right foreground.  A group of men is gathered in middle ground at right in front of the Bar.  U.S. flags are faintly visible at the tops of the buildings suggesting the photo was taken on a day of patriotic celebration.
This view is from center line ground level of Colony Way at the intersection of Fireweed Avenue looking north.   A car traveling north is in foreground at right with Bert's Drug store on the left.  Other businesses facing the street are evident with cars parked on both sides of the street.  A man and child are walking on the sidewalk in front of the drugstore.  The Railroad depot is evident in near background and mountains are visible beyond, all under a cloudy sky.
A summer oblique view of numerous business establishments along Palmer's main street. Several automobiles are parked in front of the buildings and numerous people are evident as well.
The image is a low oblique, summer view of the Palmer businesses along Colony Way from Evergreen Ave. to Fireweed Ave.  Numerous automobiles are parked in front of the businesses and signs are evident on the fronts of several buildings.  A set of rail tracks crosses the photo in foreground with a panel truck about to cross them on the Evergreen Ave. crossing.  A forested ridge is in background with mountains partly eviden beyond.
Several rail passenger cars are at left parked in front to the Palmer depot.  A crowd of mostly women and children stand next to the train.  The south end of the depot is evident.  Numerous automobiles are parked at right facing the train.  Don Irwin is identified standing next to the train.
Image is a view of the front of the new Post Office building constructed as part of the Matanuska Colony project in front of the powerhouse on what was to become Dahlia Ave.   The water tower is prominent and a portion of the powerhouse and its smokestack are visible behind.  A cable and post hitching rail is in foreground and two automobiles are partially visible.  Postal service moved from Jim Felton’s store to this facility in 1936 where it operated until 1949.  This postcard photo is estimated to have been taken about 1940.
Image is a view of the interior hallway of Palmer Central School as it appeared on February 1, 1969 at 1:18pm.  Note on the back of the photo refers to the school being evacuated, but gives no indication as to why.
Four unidentified men stand next to a "Welcome to Palmer, Alaska" sign in this color photo.  Two smaller signs are attached to the signpost indicating the Lions Club and Future Farmers organizations exist in the community.  The sign stands beside the Glenn Highway at the foot of Bailey Hill north of Palmer.  Snow covers the ground.  Power polls with cross bars are evident.  Small regulatory signs at the edge of the highway indicate the speed limit is 25 miles per hour and other rules apply.
Three men stand a t a potato sorting table assumed to be in the Co-op root cellar.   Two men stand at the table sorting the potatoes as they pass by on the moving surface while one man stands at the end of the table tending to the sacks as they fill.
Image is of five stock cars racing on the Palmer Fairgrounds race track, identified as a Labor Day event.  Other automobiles and people are visible in middle ground with Palmer city buildings and Talkeetna Mountains beyond.
Image shows a man standing on the porch of Felton’s store and post office in foreground.  A large log cabin is in near middle ground with several Colony tents visible beyond.  Heavy forest is the backdrop with mountains faintly visible in background.  Location is the former homestead of Georen O. White reflected by the large log structure.  Felton and partner, Ward, acquired the property and operated the Post Office with the community name of “Warton” until 1935 when the name was changed to “Palmer”.  The Matanuska Colony “Tent City” temporarily occupied part of the property.
This is a press photo showing people standing at the front of Felton’s store and Post Office.  James Felton and partner, Ward, operated the Post Office with the community name of “Warton” until 1935 when the name was changed to “Palmer”.  Accompanying information identifies the young man in front as John Walsh, a university graduate, employed as a carpenter, probably as one of the Matanuska Colony project transient labor force.
Image is a summer street-side color view from Dahlia Ave. of the Co-op Trading Post and Creamery building with numerous automobiles parked in front.  The warehouse behind the store is partially visible.
No items found.
No items found.
The image is of a two-engine cargo plane, number N67931, parked on the ground.  On the nose is painted an image of a winged bull in flight with partially legible words under it identifying the name of the plane as the "Flying Bull".  On the side of the plane neat the tail are the words "Palmer Cold Storage" "Palmer, Alaska".  The plane was used during the 1950's to haul beef carcasses from Chirikof Island near Kodiak to Palmer Cold Storage for processing.
Title

Airplane 1

Creator

Unknown

Subject

The "Flying Bull" cargo plane sits parked at an unidentified location.

Description

The image is of a two-engine cargo plane, number N67931, parked on the ground. On the nose is painted an image of a winged bull in flight with partially legible words under it identifying the name of the plane as the "Flying Bull". On the side of the plane neat the tail are the words "Palmer Cold Storage" "Palmer, Alaska". The plane was used during the 1950's to haul beef carcasses from Chirikof Island near Kodiak to Palmer Cold Storage for processing.

Location

Unknown

Image is an interior view of the Tropical Gardens Bar in Palmer.  Ruby and Bill Miller, proprietors from 1959 until 1962, are standing behind the bar at left.
Title

Bar 1

Creator

Cliff Moore

Subject

Interior view of the Tropical Gardens Bar in Palmer in 1959

Description

Image is an interior view of the Tropical Gardens Bar in Palmer. Ruby and Bill Miller, proprietors from 1959 until 1962, are standing behind the bar at left.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is an interior view of the Frontier Cafe in Palmer as it appeared about 1960.
Title

Cafe 1

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Interior view of the Frontier Café in Palmer

Description

Image is an interior view of the Frontier Cafe in Palmer as it appeared about 1960.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a view of the interior sanctuary of the log St. Michaels Catholic Church in Palmer as it appeared not long after it was construction in 1937.  Statues, pictures and other religious objects are apparent.
Title

Church 11

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Interior of St. Michaels Catholic Church in Palmer

Description

Image is a view of the interior sanctuary of the log St. Michaels Catholic Church in Palmer as it appeared not long after it was construction in 1937. Statues, pictures and other religious objects are apparent.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This is a slightly enhanced news photo showing Matanuska Colonists sorting through the boxes, barrels, trunks and crates of possessions off-loaded from the train at Palmer and stacked along the tracks, claiming their own and loading them on a truck to be delivered to their tents.  The marks on the photo indicate how it would be cropped for printing in the newspaper.
Title

Claiming Their Freight 1

Creator

Unknown Journal staff

Subject

Colonists claiming their trunks, boxes and barrels of belongings from piles of freight off-loaded from the train and stacked about.

Description

This is a slightly enhanced news photo showing Matanuska Colonists sorting through the boxes, barrels, trunks and crates of possessions off-loaded from the train at Palmer and stacked along the tracks, claiming their own and loading them on a truck to be delivered to their tents. The marks on the photo indicate how it would be cropped for printing in the newspaper.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

A summer view of the Co-op Creamery loading dock area with a man in uniform, possibly Palmer policeman Bill Bouwens, standing on the ground gesturing and apparently talking with someone inside the open door.  Numerous milk delivery cans are stacked on the dock, likely empty ones awaiting return to the dairy farmers to be re-filled.  A partial view of a late 1940's era car is visible parked at right.
Title

Co-op Creamery 4

Creator

Unknown

Subject

A man in police or army uniform stands at the open door of the Co-op Creamery loading dock apparently talking with someone inside.

Description

A summer view of the Co-op Creamery loading dock area with a man in uniform, possibly Palmer policeman Bill Bouwens, standing on the ground gesturing and apparently talking with someone inside the open door. Numerous milk delivery cans are stacked on the dock, likely empty ones awaiting return to the dairy farmers to be re-filled. A partial view of a late 1940's era car is visible parked at right.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This image is an interior view of the Co-op store drygoods department after the store moved into the vacated warehouse building from the Trading Post in 1940.  Four women are visible, two shoppers and two employees, including Colonist Irene Benson, Manager, at far right.
Title

Co-op Store 2

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Christmas-time business is being conducted in the drygoods department of the Co-op Store.

Description

This image is an interior view of the Co-op store drygoods department after the store moved into the vacated warehouse building from the Trading Post in 1940. Four women are visible, two shoppers and two employees, including Colonist Irene Benson, Manager, at far right.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Christmas ornaments decorate the Drygoods department of the Co-op Store while several men and women and a child shop and two clerks check out the purchases and wrap the presents.
Title

Co-op Store 3

Creator

Unknown

Subject

People crowd the recently opened Co-op Store in its new location of the old warehouse as they prepare for Christmas.

Description

Christmas ornaments decorate the Drygoods department of the Co-op Store while several men and women and a child shop and two clerks check out the purchases and wrap the presents.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

The image is of the front door and deck of the new warehouse showing notices posted on the front door, the decking along the side, the post and rail at the top of the steps leading up to the deck and front door, and a man bringing a dolly loaded with sacks feed forward to the loading dock.  A rail car is visible next to the deck at right.
Title

Co-op Warehouse 1

Creator

Unknown

Subject

A man pushes a dolly with five sacks of feed to the warehouse loading dock as a rail car stands next to the warehouse deck.

Description

The image is of the front door and deck of the new warehouse showing notices posted on the front door, the decking along the side, the post and rail at the top of the steps leading up to the deck and front door, and a man bringing a dolly loaded with sacks feed forward to the loading dock. A rail car is visible next to the deck at right.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This view shows the storage area (empty) in the attic of the warehouse and construction details of the building.
Title

Co-op Warehouse 2

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Storage space (empty) and construction details of the Co-op Warehouse are evident.

Description

This view shows the storage area (empty) in the attic of the warehouse and construction details of the building.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This image is of some of the long (deep) wooden storage bins in the Co-op Warehouse used to hold the stock of pipes and other long items.
Title

Co-op Warehouse 3

Creator

Unknown

Subject

This image shows some of the now empty pipe storage bins after the Co-op Warehouse was closed.

Description

This image is of some of the long (deep) wooden storage bins in the Co-op Warehouse used to hold the stock of pipes and other long items.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

The image is of an array of empty wooden bins of various sizes in the Co-op Warehouse used to hold small items and parts.
Title

Co-op Warehouse 4

Creator

Unknown

Subject

A large array of wooden parts bins sits empty following closure of the Co-op Warehouse

Description

The image is of an array of empty wooden bins of various sizes in the Co-op Warehouse used to hold small items and parts.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a summer view of a Matanuska Colony house, barn and outbuildings, identified as belonging to Colonists Ferber and Ruth Bailey on tract #152 located on the northern outskirts of Palmer.  The foreground is a harvested grain field partially disked.  The barn would later be moved forward past the house to allow the Glenn Highway to be straightened by cutting through “Bailey Hill” at the location where the barn is shown in this photo.
Title

Colony Farm 22

Creator

A. Eide

Subject

Farmstead of Colonists Ferber & Ruth Bailey, Tract 152

Description

Image is a summer view of a Matanuska Colony house, barn and outbuildings, identified as belonging to Colonists Ferber and Ruth Bailey on tract #152 located on the northern outskirts of Palmer. The foreground is a harvested grain field partially disked. The barn would later be moved forward past the house to allow the Glenn Highway to be straightened by cutting through “Bailey Hill” at the location where the barn is shown in this photo.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a summer view of the Colony home and barn of Virgil and Lillian Eckert on their farm tract #100 on the north edge of Palmer.  The house is of the log “cabin” style as were many of the Colony homes.  The round-roofed barn was not typical of the Colony barns and was one of only three or four constructed of that style.  A smaller log building is visible behind the house.  Scattered birch trees are around the farmstead with heavy birch forest beyond.
Title

Colony Home 23

Creator

Jackson

Subject

Home and barn of Colonists Virgil and Lillian Eckert

Description

Image is a summer view of the Colony home and barn of Virgil and Lillian Eckert on their farm tract #100 on the north edge of Palmer. The house is of the log “cabin” style as were many of the Colony homes. The round-roofed barn was not typical of the Colony barns and was one of only three or four constructed of that style. A smaller log building is visible behind the house. Scattered birch trees are around the farmstead with heavy birch forest beyond.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This is a press photo exhibiting marks indicating where it was cropped for publication in the newspaper.  Image is a summer view of Joe and Blanche Puhl and their two sons at a wood pile next to their Colony tent and their new log home on farm tract #99 on the north side of Palmer.  Rolls of barbed wire are stacked by the tent and blocks of birch wood await in the foreground to be split for fire wood.
Title

Colony Home 24

Creator

Wide World Photos, Inc

Subject

Colony Home and family of Joe & Blanche Puhl

Description

This is a press photo exhibiting marks indicating where it was cropped for publication in the newspaper. Image is a summer view of Joe and Blanche Puhl and their two sons at a wood pile next to their Colony tent and their new log home on farm tract #99 on the north side of Palmer. Rolls of barbed wire are stacked by the tent and blocks of birch wood await in the foreground to be split for fire wood.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

A color easterly view from downtown Palmer features the water tower and the Co-op garage in middle ground and portions of other buildings behind.  Water puddles in foreground and considerable remnant snow on the background mountains indicate early spring.  White clouds frame the mountains with blue sky above.  Bulk fuel tanks are partially visible at far left.  Two fuel tank rail cars are visible below the water tower.  Gas pumps are visible at the right and two trucks and a car are parked next to the garage.  A man is walking along the foreground gravel street.
Title

Community Center 42

Creator

Unknown

Subject

The color view of part of the Community Center industrial complex indicates spring is coming to the valley.

Description

A color easterly view from downtown Palmer features the water tower and the Co-op garage in middle ground and portions of other buildings behind. Water puddles in foreground and considerable remnant snow on the background mountains indicate early spring. White clouds frame the mountains with blue sky above. Bulk fuel tanks are partially visible at far left. Two fuel tank rail cars are visible below the water tower. Gas pumps are visible at the right and two trucks and a car are parked next to the garage. A man is walking along the foreground gravel street.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This color view looking east at the corner of Valley Way and Elmwood Ave. show part of the Co-op garage at left foreground, the post office and parts of the school and other Community Center buildings.  Several automobiles are parked along Elmwood (referred to then as "Market Street").  The eastern Chugach Mountains form the background, heavily snow-clad white under a clear blue sky.  A woman is visible walking down the street.
Title

Community Center 43

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Business settles in to Palmer's Community Center in the 1940's surrounded by the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Description

This color view looking east at the corner of Valley Way and Elmwood Ave. show part of the Co-op garage at left foreground, the post office and parts of the school and other Community Center buildings. Several automobiles are parked along Elmwood (referred to then as "Market Street"). The eastern Chugach Mountains form the background, heavily snow-clad white under a clear blue sky. A woman is visible walking down the street.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This image is a summer view of the north side of the new Trading Post building under construction with the lower portion framed in and framing has begun on the middle section second story.  Siding has begin on the eastern portion.  Lumber is lain out on the ground and several workers are evident.  Scattered trees form the background.
Title

Community Center 37

Creator

Unknown

Subject

The new Trading Post building in the Community Center is under construction.

Description

This image is a summer view of the north side of the new Trading Post building under construction with the lower portion framed in and framing has begun on the middle section second story. Siding has begin on the eastern portion. Lumber is lain out on the ground and several workers are evident. Scattered trees form the background.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This image shows the north side of the Trading Post building after its store function was moved across the street to the vacated first warehouse in 1940.  The attached sign indicates that the building had become the Recreation Center (referred to as the "Rec. Hall") and housed a fountain lunch counter and barbershop in addition to some small offices and space for dances, card parties and other small social gatherings.  A 1940's era pickup truck is parked in front.
Title

Community Center 38

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Signs on the building initially constructed as the Trading Post indicate that it now functions as the Recreation Center.

Description

This image shows the north side of the Trading Post building after its store function was moved across the street to the vacated first warehouse in 1940. The attached sign indicates that the building had become the Recreation Center (referred to as the "Rec. Hall") and housed a fountain lunch counter and barbershop in addition to some small offices and space for dances, card parties and other small social gatherings. A 1940's era pickup truck is parked in front.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This is a high oblique aerial view of the Palmer Community Center Co-op complex and surrounding area seen from the northwest.  The Co-op "Skater Girl" logo is visible on the water tower and the peaked roof om the school addition is not yet in place.  Both the grain elevator and the silo are in place.
Title

Community Center 39

Creator

Unknown

Subject

This aerial oblique view shows what the Co-op and surrounding area looked like in the early 1960's.

Description

This is a high oblique aerial view of the Palmer Community Center Co-op complex and surrounding area seen from the northwest. The Co-op "Skater Girl" logo is visible on the water tower and the peaked roof om the school addition is not yet in place. Both the grain elevator and the silo are in place.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This low oblique shows the new Trading Post in foreground, the school with construction scaffold still in place, the Dorm and Hospital beyond.  The faded mountains in background exhibit a definite snow line indicating this is probably an early fall image.
Title

Community Center 40

Creator

Unknown

Subject

The image shows many of the Community Center buildings constructed by the fall of 1936.

Description

This low oblique shows the new Trading Post in foreground, the school with construction scaffold still in place, the Dorm and Hospital beyond. The faded mountains in background exhibit a definite snow line indicating this is probably an early fall image.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

The Community Center Dormitory was initially built to provide housing for single teachers, nurses and others during the early days of the Colony.  It later provided public hotel rooms under private ownership.  The accommodations included a community “living room” with a fireplace and space for small gatherings.  This image shows how that room was furnished in 1969.
Title

Dorm Living Room 1

Creator

Unknown

Subject

The Palmer Community Center “Dorm” living room as it appeared in 1969

Description

The Community Center Dormitory was initially built to provide housing for single teachers, nurses and others during the early days of the Colony. It later provided public hotel rooms under private ownership. The accommodations included a community “living room” with a fireplace and space for small gatherings. This image shows how that room was furnished in 1969.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is of a farmer, identified as Colonist Claire Patton, and a horse, identified as “Prince”, standing in a field of tilled ground, pausing in the process of harrowing.  Part of a log building is visible behind the horse.  A fringe of forest is in far middle ground and mountains are visible in background.  Location is assumed to be on Patton’s Colony tract #49 south of Palmer.  The horse, “Prince”, was the youngest stud horse brought to the Colony, and was well known as highly intelligent and capable in any kind of work.
Title

Farming 10

Creator

Hewitts Photo Shop

Subject

Colonist Claire Patton and horse “Prince” harrowing a field

Description

Image is of a farmer, identified as Colonist Claire Patton, and a horse, identified as “Prince”, standing in a field of tilled ground, pausing in the process of harrowing. Part of a log building is visible behind the horse. A fringe of forest is in far middle ground and mountains are visible in background. Location is assumed to be on Patton’s Colony tract #49 south of Palmer. The horse, “Prince”, was the youngest stud horse brought to the Colony, and was well known as highly intelligent and capable in any kind of work.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a summer street-side view from W. Evergreen Ave. of the Palmer Fire Department Fire Hall as it appeared in 1955.
Title

Fire Hall 1

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Palmer Fire Department headquarters viewed from W. Evergreen Ave. in 1955

Description

Image is a summer street-side view from W. Evergreen Ave. of the Palmer Fire Department Fire Hall as it appeared in 1955.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is of a vintage American-LaFrance fire truck parked on the west side of the Palmer theater building.  A child is visible on the seat at the steering wheel, his trusty cap pistol ready at hand on the seat beside him.   “ALASKA RAILROAD FIRE DEPARTMENT” is stamped on the engine hood, and a U.S. Federal property decal, visible on the side of the foot rest, is a reminder that at the time this truck was part of the railroad fleet, that railroad was still owned and operated by the federal government.  Various information indicates the model year of this truck as 1909 or 1916.  Other photos in our collection show this truck at the Lazy Mountain Children’s Home.  Further research is needed to identify the truck’s history, age and current status.
Title

Fire Truck 1

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Old American-LaFrance fire truck, a member of the Palmer Fire Dept. fleet.

Description

Image is of a vintage American-LaFrance fire truck parked on the west side of the Palmer theater building. A child is visible on the seat at the steering wheel, his trusty cap pistol ready at hand on the seat beside him. “ALASKA RAILROAD FIRE DEPARTMENT” is stamped on the engine hood, and a U.S. Federal property decal, visible on the side of the foot rest, is a reminder that at the time this truck was part of the railroad fleet, that railroad was still owned and operated by the federal government. Various information indicates the model year of this truck as 1909 or 1916. Other photos in our collection show this truck at the Lazy Mountain Children’s Home. Further research is needed to identify the truck’s history, age and current status.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a view across the Community Center quad, west toward the commercial center buildings of Palmer as a large column of smoke rises from Horton’s Roadhouse as it burned in 1946. Numerous people and vehicles are visible.  Also destroyed besides Horton's Roadhouse, or apartments, were Horton's Cafe, the Frontier Bar and the Frontier Liquor Store.
Title

Horton's Roadhouse Fire

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Smoke rising as Horton’s Roadhouse burned in 1946

Description

Image is a view across the Community Center quad, west toward the commercial center buildings of Palmer as a large column of smoke rises from Horton’s Roadhouse as it burned in 1946. Numerous people and vehicles are visible. Also destroyed besides Horton's Roadhouse, or apartments, were Horton's Cafe, the Frontier Bar and the Frontier Liquor Store.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a frontal oblique view of five buildings along Matanuska's main street.  Signage identifies O.O. Krogh General Merchandise store and Post Office, and Allen's Liquor Store.  A man and a tricycle stand on the boardwalk in front of Krogh's store.
Title

Matanuska Townsite 2

Creator

Jackson

Subject

Stores along Matanuska's main street stand ready for business.

Description

Image is a frontal oblique view of five buildings along Matanuska's main street. Signage identifies O.O. Krogh General Merchandise store and Post Office, and Allen's Liquor Store. A man and a tricycle stand on the boardwalk in front of Krogh's store.

Location

Matanuska, Alaska

Image is a view of a shed-roofed building with three nine-pane windows and two small high windows that appear to have bars.  A sign at the entrance identifies it as headquarters for the U.S. Marshall and Corporation Police.  The photographer’s note on the front of the print indicate it was the Palmer “City Jail”.  It appears to be a temporary and hastily constructed facility in the early days of the Matanuska Colony project in Palmer.
Title

Palmer Jail

Creator

Jackson

Subject

Palmer Jail and office of the U.S. Marshall and the ARRC Police

Description

Image is a view of a shed-roofed building with three nine-pane windows and two small high windows that appear to have bars. A sign at the entrance identifies it as headquarters for the U.S. Marshall and Corporation Police. The photographer’s note on the front of the print indicate it was the Palmer “City Jail”. It appears to be a temporary and hastily constructed facility in the early days of the Matanuska Colony project in Palmer.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is an east side street view of the two storied Bert’s Drugstore building exhibiting signs and window advertisements for a variety of businesses therein, including Rexall Drugs, Soda Fountain, Post Office, Barbershop, Bus Depot, Jewelry, Liquor Store and Bar.  Two automobiles are parked in front.
Title

Palmer Street 20

Creator

Anchorage Times

Subject

Bert’s Drugstore street view

Description

Image is an east side street view of the two storied Bert’s Drugstore building exhibiting signs and window advertisements for a variety of businesses therein, including Rexall Drugs, Soda Fountain, Post Office, Barbershop, Bus Depot, Jewelry, Liquor Store and Bar. Two automobiles are parked in front.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is of the east face street view of the Ward building in downtown Palmer.  Signs include advertisement for Reed’s Hardware, Frontier Bar and a café.  A car is parked in front.
Title

Palmer Street 21

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

East street view of the Ward building in downtown Palmer in 1958

Description

Image is of the east face street view of the Ward building in downtown Palmer. Signs include advertisement for Reed’s Hardware, Frontier Bar and a café. A car is parked in front.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is of the east face street view of Tost’s Service Station building in downtown Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  Signs are evident advertising Standard Oil products and Chevron gasoline.  The street in front is newly paved.
Title

Palmer Street 22

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

East street view of Tost’s Service Station building in downtown Palmer in 1958

Description

Image is of the east face street view of Tost’s Service Station building in downtown Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958. Signs are evident advertising Standard Oil products and Chevron gasoline. The street in front is newly paved.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is the street view of the north and west facing sides of Kirk’s Sales & Service Station building in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  Signs are evident advertising Chevrolet and Oldsmobile automobiles and Union Oil products.  Gas pumps are visible in front of both sides of the building.  Bulk fuel tanks are evident behind the building exhibiting a large “76” sign. The street in front is newly paved.
Title

Palmer Street 23

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

North and west street view of Kirk’s Sales and Service Station building in Palmer in 1958

Description

Image is the street view of the north and west facing sides of Kirk’s Sales & Service Station building in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958. Signs are evident advertising Chevrolet and Oldsmobile automobiles and Union Oil products. Gas pumps are visible in front of both sides of the building. Bulk fuel tanks are evident behind the building exhibiting a large “76” sign. The street in front is newly paved.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is the street view of the north and west facing sides of Hartley Motors Sales & Service Station building at the intersection of Old Glenn Highway and South Valley Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  Signs are evident advertising Ford automobiles, lubrication services and Chevron Oil products.  Gas pumps are visible in front of the building.   Automobiles are parked near the building. Snow-clad mountains are partially visible in background.  The street in front is newly paved.
Title

Palmer Street 24

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

: North and west street view of Hartley Motors Sales and Service Station building in Palmer in 1958

Description

Image is the street view of the north and west facing sides of Hartley Motors Sales & Service Station building at the intersection of Old Glenn Highway and South Valley Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958. Signs are evident advertising Ford automobiles, lubrication services and Chevron Oil products. Gas pumps are visible in front of the building. Automobiles are parked near the building. Snow-clad mountains are partially visible in background. The street in front is newly paved.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is an easterly view at the intersection of South Valley Way and Dahlia Ave. in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  Buildings of the Co-op are evident at left and signs are visible.  Automobiles are evident. Snow-clad mountains are prominent in background.  The included streets are newly paved.
Title

Palmer Street 25

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Easterly view at the intersection of South Valley Way and Dahlia Ave. in Palmer in fall 1958 including Co-op buildings and mountains

Description

Image is an easterly view at the intersection of South Valley Way and Dahlia Ave. in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958. Buildings of the Co-op are evident at left and signs are visible. Automobiles are evident. Snow-clad mountains are prominent in background. The included streets are newly paved.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is of the Piggly Wiggly Super Market facing onto South Alaska Street in Palmer as it appeared in 1955.   Automobiles are parked in front and signs are evident.
Title

Palmer Street 26

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Piggly Wiggly Super Market on South Alaska Street in Palmer in 1955

Description

Image is of the Piggly Wiggly Super Market facing onto South Alaska Street in Palmer as it appeared in 1955. Automobiles are parked in front and signs are evident.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is of the Piggly Wiggly Super Market facing onto South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.   Automobiles are parked in front and signs are evident.  The street is newly paved.
Title

Palmer Street 27

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Piggly Wiggly Super Market on South Alaska Street in Palmer in fall 1958 after the street was paved.

Description

Image is of the Piggly Wiggly Super Market facing onto South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958. Automobiles are parked in front and signs are evident. The street is newly paved.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is of the Thrifty Variety Store facing onto South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.   Automobiles are parked in front and signs are evident.  The street is newly paved.
Title

Palmer Street 28

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Thrifty Variety Store on South Alaska Street in Palmer in fall 1958 after the street was paved.

Description

Image is of the Thrifty Variety Store facing onto South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958. Automobiles are parked in front and signs are evident. The street is newly paved.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is the south view along South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958, viewed from the intersection with W. Evergreen Ave.   Automobiles are parallel parked on both sides of the street, signs are evident and tall TV antennas are visible.  The street is newly paved.
Title

Palmer Street 29

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

South view along South Alaska Street in Palmer in fall 1958 after the street was paved.

Description

Image is the south view along South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958, viewed from the intersection with W. Evergreen Ave. Automobiles are parallel parked on both sides of the street, signs are evident and tall TV antennas are visible. The street is newly paved.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is the north view along South Alaska Street in Palmer, viewed from the intersection with W. Evergreen Ave., as it appeared in fall of 1958.   Automobiles are parked along newly installed curbs and sidewalks on the recently paves street.   Signs are evident and snow-clad Talkeetna Mountains are apparent in background.
Title

Palmer Street 30

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

North view along South Alaska Street in Palmer in fall 1958 after the street was paved.

Description

Image is the north view along South Alaska Street in Palmer, viewed from the intersection with W. Evergreen Ave., as it appeared in fall of 1958. Automobiles are parked along newly installed curbs and sidewalks on the recently paves street. Signs are evident and snow-clad Talkeetna Mountains are apparent in background.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is the south view along South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1955, viewed from near the intersection with W. Evergreen Ave.   Automobiles are angle parked on both sides of the street, signs are evident and tall TV antennas are visible on the roofs.
Title

Palmer Street 31

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

South view along South Colony Way in Palmer in fall 1955.

Description

Image is the south view along South Colony Way in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1955, viewed from near the intersection with W. Evergreen Ave. Automobiles are angle parked on both sides of the street, signs are evident and tall TV antennas are visible on the roofs.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is the east side of Koslosky’s Department Store facing South Alaska Street in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.   Automobiles are parked along newly installed curbs and sidewalks on the recently paves street.   Signs are prominent
Title

Palmer Street 32

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Koslosky’s store on South Alaska Street in Palmer in fall 1958 after the street was paved.

Description

Image is the east side of Koslosky’s Department Store facing South Alaska Street in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958. Automobiles are parked along newly installed curbs and sidewalks on the recently paves street. Signs are prominent

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is of the southwest entry and west side of the Palmer Drug Store on South Alaska Street in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958.  The new sidewalk associated with the recently paved street is evident.   The Palmer Drug Fountain sign is prominent.
Title

Palmer Street 33

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Palmer Drugstore on South Alaska Street in Palmer in fall 1958 after the street was paved

Description

Image is of the southwest entry and west side of the Palmer Drug Store on South Alaska Street in Palmer as it appeared in fall of 1958. The new sidewalk associated with the recently paved street is evident. The Palmer Drug Fountain sign is prominent.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a street-side view from S. Colony Way of the sidewalk and building window advertising the “Matanuska Valley Bank” and partial view of another window advertising “Savings”.  Two cars are parallel parked in front at the curb of the newly paved street.
Title

Palmer Street 34

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Matanuska Valley Bank windows on S. Colony Way in Palmer as they appeared in fall of 1958

Description

Image is a street-side view from S. Colony Way of the sidewalk and building window advertising the “Matanuska Valley Bank” and partial view of another window advertising “Savings”. Two cars are parallel parked in front at the curb of the newly paved street.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a view of Pioneer Apartments and Kirk’s Sales & Service at the intersection of Glenn Highway and S. Valley Way.  A sign is prominent in foreground with an arrow pointing to “Palmer Shopping Center”.  New pavement on S. Valley Way is evident as part of the city street paving project of 1958.  Three vehicles are evident.
Title

Palmer Street 35

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Pioneer Apartments and Kirk’s Sales & Service buildings at the intersection of Glenn Highway and S. Valley Way. A sign is prominent pointing toward Palmer shopping center

Description

Image is a view of Pioneer Apartments and Kirk’s Sales & Service at the intersection of Glenn Highway and S. Valley Way. A sign is prominent in foreground with an arrow pointing to “Palmer Shopping Center”. New pavement on S. Valley Way is evident as part of the city street paving project of 1958. Three vehicles are evident.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a view of the front of Betty’s Dress Shop on S. Valley Way.  A neon sign, “BETTY’S” is prominent under the canopy covering the new sidewalk associated with recent street paving activity carried out by the city in 1958.
Title

Palmer Street 36

Creator

Anchorage Times Newspaper

Subject

Betty’s Dress shop exterior on S. Colony Way.

Description

Image is a view of the front of Betty’s Dress Shop on S. Valley Way. A neon sign, “BETTY’S” is prominent under the canopy covering the new sidewalk associated with recent street paving activity carried out by the city in 1958.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a view of numerous automobiles parked in front of businesses along S. Valley Way.  A man stands in foreground looking away.   Many signs are visible.  The railroad depot is evident and two trains are visible nearby.
Title

Palmer Street 37

Creator

Anchorage Times Publishing Co.

Subject

Creative parking on S. Colony Way.

Description

Image is a view of numerous automobiles parked in front of businesses along S. Valley Way. A man stands in foreground looking away. Many signs are visible. The railroad depot is evident and two trains are visible nearby.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a street scene of people at the front of "Bert's Liquor" store and the "Palmer Cocktail Bar" in Palmer.  Three men in dress clothes are in foreground with backs to the camera.  A woman stands on the wooden sidewalk facing the camera dressed in a skirt, full length coat and hat.  The front fender of a period car is visible in the right foreground.  A group of men is gathered in middle ground at right in front of the Bar.  U.S. flags are faintly visible at the tops of the buildings suggesting the photo was taken on a day of patriotic celebration.
Title

Palmer Street 51

Creator

Unknown

Subject

People are gathered in front of two Palmer establishments, apparently on a day of patriotic celebration.

Description

Image is a street scene of people at the front of "Bert's Liquor" store and the "Palmer Cocktail Bar" in Palmer. Three men in dress clothes are in foreground with backs to the camera. A woman stands on the wooden sidewalk facing the camera dressed in a skirt, full length coat and hat. The front fender of a period car is visible in the right foreground. A group of men is gathered in middle ground at right in front of the Bar. U.S. flags are faintly visible at the tops of the buildings suggesting the photo was taken on a day of patriotic celebration.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This view is from center line ground level of Colony Way at the intersection of Fireweed Avenue looking north.   A car traveling north is in foreground at right with Bert's Drug store on the left.  Other businesses facing the street are evident with cars parked on both sides of the street.  A man and child are walking on the sidewalk in front of the drugstore.  The Railroad depot is evident in near background and mountains are visible beyond, all under a cloudy sky.
Title

Palmer Street 52

Creator

Unknown

Subject

This is a low angle view north along Colony Way in Palmer showing automobiles and businesses facing the street.

Description

This view is from center line ground level of Colony Way at the intersection of Fireweed Avenue looking north. A car traveling north is in foreground at right with Bert's Drug store on the left. Other businesses facing the street are evident with cars parked on both sides of the street. A man and child are walking on the sidewalk in front of the drugstore. The Railroad depot is evident in near background and mountains are visible beyond, all under a cloudy sky.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

A summer oblique view of numerous business establishments along Palmer's main street. Several automobiles are parked in front of the buildings and numerous people are evident as well.
Title

Palmer Street 53

Creator

Unknown

Subject

People are parking their cars and gathering in front of businesses along Palmer's main commercial street. Signs are evident on some of the buildings identifying the business inside.

Description

A summer oblique view of numerous business establishments along Palmer's main street. Several automobiles are parked in front of the buildings and numerous people are evident as well.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

The image is a low oblique, summer view of the Palmer businesses along Colony Way from Evergreen Ave. to Fireweed Ave.  Numerous automobiles are parked in front of the businesses and signs are evident on the fronts of several buildings.  A set of rail tracks crosses the photo in foreground with a panel truck about to cross them on the Evergreen Ave. crossing.  A forested ridge is in background with mountains partly eviden beyond.
Title

Palmer Street 54

Creator

Brickley

Subject

Automobiles park in front of businesses fronting on the street now identified as S. Colony Way in Palmer.

Description

The image is a low oblique, summer view of the Palmer businesses along Colony Way from Evergreen Ave. to Fireweed Ave. Numerous automobiles are parked in front of the businesses and signs are evident on the fronts of several buildings. A set of rail tracks crosses the photo in foreground with a panel truck about to cross them on the Evergreen Ave. crossing. A forested ridge is in background with mountains partly eviden beyond.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Several rail passenger cars are at left parked in front to the Palmer depot.  A crowd of mostly women and children stand next to the train.  The south end of the depot is evident.  Numerous automobiles are parked at right facing the train.  Don Irwin is identified standing next to the train.
Title

People 52

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Women and children appear to be waiting to board the train at the Palmer Depot.

Description

Several rail passenger cars are at left parked in front to the Palmer depot. A crowd of mostly women and children stand next to the train. The south end of the depot is evident. Numerous automobiles are parked at right facing the train. Don Irwin is identified standing next to the train.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a view of the front of the new Post Office building constructed as part of the Matanuska Colony project in front of the powerhouse on what was to become Dahlia Ave.   The water tower is prominent and a portion of the powerhouse and its smokestack are visible behind.  A cable and post hitching rail is in foreground and two automobiles are partially visible.  Postal service moved from Jim Felton’s store to this facility in 1936 where it operated until 1949.  This postcard photo is estimated to have been taken about 1940.
Title

Post Office 2

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Palmer Post Office circa 1940, water tower and powerhouse smoke stack

Description

Image is a view of the front of the new Post Office building constructed as part of the Matanuska Colony project in front of the powerhouse on what was to become Dahlia Ave. The water tower is prominent and a portion of the powerhouse and its smokestack are visible behind. A cable and post hitching rail is in foreground and two automobiles are partially visible. Postal service moved from Jim Felton’s store to this facility in 1936 where it operated until 1949. This postcard photo is estimated to have been taken about 1940.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a view of the interior hallway of Palmer Central School as it appeared on February 1, 1969 at 1:18pm.  Note on the back of the photo refers to the school being evacuated, but gives no indication as to why.
Title

School 3

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Interior hallway view of Palmer Central School in 1969

Description

Image is a view of the interior hallway of Palmer Central School as it appeared on February 1, 1969 at 1:18pm. Note on the back of the photo refers to the school being evacuated, but gives no indication as to why.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Four unidentified men stand next to a "Welcome to Palmer, Alaska" sign in this color photo.  Two smaller signs are attached to the signpost indicating the Lions Club and Future Farmers organizations exist in the community.  The sign stands beside the Glenn Highway at the foot of Bailey Hill north of Palmer.  Snow covers the ground.  Power polls with cross bars are evident.  Small regulatory signs at the edge of the highway indicate the speed limit is 25 miles per hour and other rules apply.
Title

Signs 1

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Four men stand next to the "Welcome to Palmer, Alaska" sign at the north entry to the city.

Description

Four unidentified men stand next to a "Welcome to Palmer, Alaska" sign in this color photo. Two smaller signs are attached to the signpost indicating the Lions Club and Future Farmers organizations exist in the community. The sign stands beside the Glenn Highway at the foot of Bailey Hill north of Palmer. Snow covers the ground. Power polls with cross bars are evident. Small regulatory signs at the edge of the highway indicate the speed limit is 25 miles per hour and other rules apply.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Three men stand a t a potato sorting table assumed to be in the Co-op root cellar.   Two men stand at the table sorting the potatoes as they pass by on the moving surface while one man stands at the end of the table tending to the sacks as they fill.
Title

Sorting Potatoes 1

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Three men are sorting potatoes in a root cellar storage facility.

Description

Three men stand a t a potato sorting table assumed to be in the Co-op root cellar. Two men stand at the table sorting the potatoes as they pass by on the moving surface while one man stands at the end of the table tending to the sacks as they fill.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is of five stock cars racing on the Palmer Fairgrounds race track, identified as a Labor Day event.  Other automobiles and people are visible in middle ground with Palmer city buildings and Talkeetna Mountains beyond.
Title

Stock Cars 1

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Labor Day stock car races at the Palmer fairgrounds , 1949

Description

Image is of five stock cars racing on the Palmer Fairgrounds race track, identified as a Labor Day event. Other automobiles and people are visible in middle ground with Palmer city buildings and Talkeetna Mountains beyond.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image shows a man standing on the porch of Felton’s store and post office in foreground.  A large log cabin is in near middle ground with several Colony tents visible beyond.  Heavy forest is the backdrop with mountains faintly visible in background.  Location is the former homestead of Georen O. White reflected by the large log structure.  Felton and partner, Ward, acquired the property and operated the Post Office with the community name of “Warton” until 1935 when the name was changed to “Palmer”.  The Matanuska Colony “Tent City” temporarily occupied part of the property.
Title

Store 1

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Felton’s store & post office adjacent to a homestead cabin and colony tents

Description

Image shows a man standing on the porch of Felton’s store and post office in foreground. A large log cabin is in near middle ground with several Colony tents visible beyond. Heavy forest is the backdrop with mountains faintly visible in background. Location is the former homestead of Georen O. White reflected by the large log structure. Felton and partner, Ward, acquired the property and operated the Post Office with the community name of “Warton” until 1935 when the name was changed to “Palmer”. The Matanuska Colony “Tent City” temporarily occupied part of the property.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

This is a press photo showing people standing at the front of Felton’s store and Post Office.  James Felton and partner, Ward, operated the Post Office with the community name of “Warton” until 1935 when the name was changed to “Palmer”.  Accompanying information identifies the young man in front as John Walsh, a university graduate, employed as a carpenter, probably as one of the Matanuska Colony project transient labor force.
Title

Store 2

Creator

International News Photo, Inc.

Subject

People standing about in front of Felton’s store & post office

Description

This is a press photo showing people standing at the front of Felton’s store and Post Office. James Felton and partner, Ward, operated the Post Office with the community name of “Warton” until 1935 when the name was changed to “Palmer”. Accompanying information identifies the young man in front as John Walsh, a university graduate, employed as a carpenter, probably as one of the Matanuska Colony project transient labor force.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

Image is a summer street-side color view from Dahlia Ave. of the Co-op Trading Post and Creamery building with numerous automobiles parked in front.  The warehouse behind the store is partially visible.
Title

Trading Post 7

Creator

Unknown

Subject

Color view of the Co-op Trading Post in 1956 with automobiles parked in front.

Description

Image is a summer street-side color view from Dahlia Ave. of the Co-op Trading Post and Creamery building with numerous automobiles parked in front. The warehouse behind the store is partially visible.

Location

Palmer, Alaska

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