Alaskans are known for our resilience. We are not afraid of taking on the unforgiving elements that surround us and we are champs at braving the storm, time and time again. The fascinating story behind one of the oldest general stores in Alaska has us believing that our structural integrities follow suit with that of the Alaskan people. This building has been around for over 100 years. On top of that, it has been totally transformed into a popular attraction that people flock from all around the world to enjoy each year. Prepare to be amazed!
When most people think about Wrangell - St. Elias National Park, they think about mountains...
And glistening, larger-than-life glaciers...
And most famously, the historic Kennecott Copper Mines Historic Landmark.
But what they don't realize is that one of the oldest general stores in the last frontier is also located nearby.
The McCarthy General Store is one of the oldest general stores in the last frontier and it is located right in town at the base of the Wrangell - St. Elias National Park and Preserve. Today, the building still stands and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
This tiny little general store was built in 1914 during the Kennecott mining boom.
The store was located on the main floor and upstairs were 11 bunk rooms for nearby mining workers to use. The store became abandoned during the 1930s after the mining boom died off and Kennecott became a ghost town.
But wait, there's more...
Today, the historic building still stands and has been completely transformed.
Welcome to Ma Johnson's Hotel!
The old general store isn't even recognizable from the outside as it has been completely transformed into a hotel. This hotel is a very popular place to stay for tourists visiting the last frontier during the summer months.
The historic atmosphere is instantly felt when you step inside this charming hotel.
Remaining artifacts from the historic general store can also be found throughout many of the hotel rooms.
The historic general store / hotel is also a hot spot for large community gatherings during the holidays.
Pretty incredible, huh? We are just amazed by how this place has transformed over the last century.
While we're on the topic of the incredibly unique town of McCarthy, be sure to check out the grim footage captured at this abandoned Alaska copper mine. If you're a local, you might also enjoy reading about these 25 things that are actually really frustrating about living in the last frontier.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
