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Rika Wallen purchased the roadhouse in the early 1900's, it had dirt
floors and rough walls. She papered the walls with collected scraps,
and covered the floors with wood from wood crates from her customers.
The second story and added wing provided space for additional guests'
sleeping quarters. After 1925, Rika raised animals and developed a
garden, growing a variety of fruits and vegtables and an orchard.
The animals and garden gave the roadhouse an edge along the Valdez
to Fairbanks Trail, to attract clients. She added a liquor store,
and US Post Office in 1926. Rika's roadhouse, restored in 1984, sits
on a rebuilt foundation with original wood beams. The windmill was
built in 1932 providing fresh water to the roadhouse. A replica replaced
it in 1984. |
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