WHEREAS, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million in March of 1867, and on October 18, 1867, Alaska was formally transferred from Russia and officially became a United States Territory; and
WHEREAS, approximately 250 United States Army troops marched to the Governor’s house at “Castle Hill” in Sitka to commemorate the formal transfer with a ceremonial flag-raising, replacing the Russian flag with the first 49 star United States flag; and
WHEREAS, this pivotal moment in our State’s history laid the foundation for Alaska’s advancement as an official component of the United States of America, which did not officially occur until 92 years later when Alaska gained statehood in 1959; and
WHEREAS, Alaska Day serves as a meaningful reminder of Alaska’s rich history and distinctiveness as a State full of boundless opportunities, breathtaking landscapes, and bountiful resources; and
WHEREAS, October 18, 2026 marks the 159th anniversary of the formal transfer of Alaska from the Russian Empire to the United States of America. Today is a day to honor our growth as a State and to be thankful for the abundant resources, rich cultures, and incredible encounters with nature that are available to us as Alaskans.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim October 18, 2026 as:
Alaska Day
in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to celebrate and recognize this momentous milestone in our State’s history.
Dated: October 18, 2026
