As National Historic Preservation Month shines a spotlight on Alaska’s architectural heritage, preservation architect Sam Combs is urging residents to help protect the state’s historic buildings. Highlighting projects like the Oscar Anderson House in Anchorage, Combs emphasizes the importance of preserving history—not just for cultural value but also to attract tourism. With grant support available, now is the time for communities to rally around Alaska’s treasured landmarks before they disappear.

May Marks Preservation Month

May is recognized nationwide as National Historic Preservation Month, and Alaska’s historians and preservation advocates are using this opportunity to call for greater public awareness about the value of the state’s historic buildings. The month encourages communities and individuals alike to recognize the significance of preserving Alaska’s architectural heritage for future generations.

History Draws Tourists

Historic Preservation Architect Sam Combs explains that preserving historic structures serves a dual purpose. Not only does it protect the local history and identity, but it also plays a crucial role in attracting visitors to Alaska’s cities. Combs emphasizes, “You come to a city not to see the new shiny skyscrapers and buildings, you come to see the history of the town.” This perspective highlights how preservation connects people to the stories and character of their surroundings.

Into Anchorage’s First Frame Home

One of the prime examples Combs points to is the Oscar Anderson House, located near downtown Anchorage. The home holds a special place in the city’s architectural history. Combs explains its significance: “This was reputedly the first frame house in Anchorage; there have been log cabins and other structures, but this was the first frame house.” This distinction makes the house a valuable cultural landmark and a focal point of preservation efforts.

Historic Elements Captured

Visitors stepping into the Oscar Anderson House experience a carefully preserved snapshot of the past. The home is filled with period-appropriate furnishings and decor, including wallpaper painstakingly restored to its original pattern. Combs shares the detailed work behind this: “I took home layers of wallpaper and then put them in our bathtubs, separated them, and that’s how we determined which was the earliest wallpaper and freezes around the building.” This scientific and hands-on approach ensured that the restoration reflects the house’s authentic historical appearance.

Preserving Vintage Elements

Some structural upgrades were necessary to preserve the house while maintaining historical integrity. “The floor was like a trampoline,” Combs said, explaining how 2x4s spanned 17 feet, requiring reinforcement for safety. Another major project was the fireplace, which had been demolished due to earthquake damage. “I used old photos to create restoration drawings,” he noted, highlighting the careful attention to historical detail.

Relocation Preserves Future

The Oscar Anderson House has not always stood in its current location. It was relocated to protect it from demolition as the city developed. Combs explains, “It was originally across the road here where that apartment building is right now, and then it got moved because they wanted to build out there.” This move was essential to preserving the home’s future and maintaining its place within Anchorage’s historic landscape.

Encouraging Preservation Efforts

Combs urges Alaskans with historic homes to seek support for preservation. “If you’ve got a historic house in town, let us know — we can help,” he said, noting the availability of small grants for planning and restoration. For those without historic properties, he recommends supporting preservation by visiting historic sites. “Public engagement helps build appreciation and sustain efforts statewide,” he added, emphasizing the role of community involvement in protecting Alaska’s heritage.