August 01, 2017
First Automobile Drive From Fairbanks to Valdez
Bobby Sheldon Makes History in Alaska
This Day in Alaska History - First Automobile from Fairbanks to Valdez
On August 2, 1913, Robert "Bobby" E. Sheldon made history. His arrival in Valdez marked the day that the first automobile was driven by a civilian along the wagon trail from Fairbanks to Valdez—what would later be known as the Richardson Highway. The trail itself was built in 1898 and connected Valdez to Eagle. When gold discoveries lessened in Eagle, the trail was detoured to connect with Fairbanks, which was having its own gold boom at the time.
Do you enjoy learning about some of Alaska's awesome history? Check out "Discovering Gold at Pedro Creek."
5 comments
I believe Dave Maddox was along on that trip. And maybe his friend McDonald?
Nancy Webb
April 17, 2021
I would like to set the record straight on this discussion. Including the side trip to Chitina the trip was 450 miles and the driving time was 59 hours. To get the full story I suggest reading “Extreme Motoring, Alaska’s First Automobiles and Their Dauntless Drivers” written by Nancy DeWitt. I know this to be the correct facts as I am the granddaughter of
Robert Sheldon.
Jan Plaquet
April 17, 2021
And had to build their own ferry to cross a river!
Kathy
April 17, 2021
You’re right. I think there must’ve been a typo involved here since the trip is closer to 360 miles. Good eye, Michael!
Kyle
April 17, 2021
50 miles/day x 4 days = 200 miles…Fairbanks to Valdez? Don’t think so.
Michael Lindbeck
April 17, 2021