Kennicott, also known as Kennecott, is a historic mining town located in the Valdez-Cordova Census Area of Alaska. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Valdez-Cordova Census Area
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 61°29′41″N, 142°53′22″W
Elevation: Approximately 2,000 ft (610 m)
Time Zone: Alaska Standard Time (AKST) (UTC-9)
Established: 1900s
Disestablished: 1938
Comments: Kennicott was established in the early 20th century following the discovery of rich copper deposits in the area. The Kennecott Copper Corporation developed the site, constructing a mill town to process the ore extracted from nearby mines. At its peak, the town was a bustling community with a hospital, school, and recreational facilities. However, by 1938, the copper resources were depleted, leading to the town’s abandonment. In 1986, Kennicott was designated a National Historic Landmark, and in 1998, the National Park Service acquired significant buildings in the town, working to stabilize and rehabilitate many of the structures.
Remains: Today, Kennicott is a well-preserved ghost town within the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. Visitors can explore the 14-story concentration mill, power plant, and other historic buildings. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the town’s mining history and daily life during its operation.
Current Status: Kennicott is uninhabited but serves as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in Alaska’s mining history and the natural beauty of the surrounding national park.
Remarks: The town’s name is a misspelling of “Kennecott,” named after the Kennecott Glacier, which itself was named after Robert Kennicott, a naturalist and explorer. The area offers a unique glimpse into early 20th-century mining operations and the challenges faced by those who lived and worked in such remote locations.
