Living in Alaska: Rika's and Shooting

Mike and I drove down to Delta for the afternoon and explored Rika's Roadhouse. The Valdez-to-Fairbanks trail brought travelers to the banks of the Tanana River, where they crossed by ferry. John Hajdukovich, Yugoslavian entrepreneur, envisioned a business opportunity here, and bought the land along with a fur trading post in 1909. The two-story roadhouse, built of logs that were floated down river, became a year-round oasis for hunters, trappers, prospectors and travelers as well as local Athabascans and homesteaders. However, John had many other interests, including the responsibility of US Game Commissioner. Sitting still and running a roadhouse did not appeal to him very much so he simply asked guests to make themselves at home and leave some money on the table. He ran it in this way until 1918, when finally a dependable, hard-working Swede named Rika Wallen was hired to take over (from www.rikas.com).

There were great opportunities for me to explore and play with my new camera! Of course, it would not have been fair for me to get to have all the fun and Mike not get to shoot his gun. After leaving Rika's, we drove to a top secret location and Mike took in some target practice with his new Ruger 10-22. Mike, being the gentleman he is, even allowed me to shoot his gun. Not to brag, my aim was just a wee bit better than my dear husbands! However, when it comes to hunting, Mike will certainly be bringing home the meat!

Rika's Roadhouse