Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Diary 46, 1937 [Front cover] Be Destroyed or Developed? 1937 Diary of To the People of Alaska: James Wickersham Among the thirty-odd House Memorials from presented to the Legislature of Alaska in the 1935 Sept 17, 1937 Session was House Joint Memorial No. 3 To introduced by Representative Joe Green, April 27th 1939. Democrat, from Hyder, on January 21, 1935: “Praying that the Congress of the United States Diary 46, 1937 [inside front cover] amend Section 465 of the Compiled Laws of [pamphlet] Alaska, 1933, and all other sections relating to “I again recommend the establishment of a full Legislative powers of the Territory of Alaska, so as Territorial form of government in Alaska.”-Governor to provide for a Legislature of one body to be John W. Troy known as the Senate, to be composed of twenty- (Report, 1938) four members elected for a term of four years, three of whom shall be elected from each Judicial AN APPEAL Division at the General Election in 1938, and each to the subsequent General Election, was read the first VOTERS OF ALASKA time and referred to the Committee on Judiciary To Defend Their and Federal Relations.” FULL TERRITORIAL FORM OF GOVERNMENT The memorial was introduced in the House by ● Mr. Green on January 21; favorably reported by the TO AMERICAN VOTERS IN ALASKA Committee on the 23rd; passed the House with STOP, LOOK and THINK before you vote at the amendments on the 24th, and by a unanimous vote Territorial Election on September 13, 1938, to of its sixteen members, fifteen of whom were destroy the Alaska Territorial Senate. It is a Democrats, sent to the Senate for Consideration BLOCK OF SAFETY found in every American form on January 28th. Page 106-107 House Journal of Government - in every Constitution and Organic 1935. Act. Its presence there was and is intended to give Received by the Senate on the 28th; reported by additional protection to your PERSONAL Senate Committee, adversely, on the 29th; and on LIBERTIES AND CIVIL RIGHTS. the 31st, House Joint Memorial No. 3 was read the third time, the question being: “Shall the Memorial The Dimond Referendum which you are urged to pass?” The Secretary called the roll with the adopt is the first step in an organized plan to create following result – Ayes, 2; Noes 6. a FULL CENTRALIZED BUREAUCRATIC FORM And so the Memorial failed to pass. Page 58 OF GOVERNMENT in Alaska through a Senate Journal 1935. UNICAMERAL OR ONE-HOUSE LEGISLATURE So far as the history of the particular Memorial is WITHOUT CHECK OR BALANCE – the Nazi- known to the public, it seems to have originated in German type. the mind of Representative Green. No convention VOTE AGAINST IT! of his party had asked for it, no public meeting of James Wickersham. Alaskans suggested it, no newspaper mentioned it as being necessary for the development of better Shall Alaska’s American Territorial Territorial government, no public complaint had Form of Government been previously made that the Territorial Senate had neglected its duty, or that its continued did not receive a favorable report; was laid on the existence was a check on good laws or that it was table when called, by a unanimous vote of the a menace to their passage. Mr. Green simply House members, and the effort to destroy the full introduced his Memorial and there was light! The American form of Territorial legislative government flare of that little torch blinded the eyes of the entire in Alaska, was defeated in that body, also. House membership, and they voted unanimously With no public demand from any class of citizens to repeal the Senatorial branch of the Legislature in Alaska, and in the face of the refusal of both the as it was created by Congress in the Organic Act of 12th and 13th Sessions of the Alaska Legislature to August 24th, 1912, without discussing its merits as endorse the plan, Delegate Dimond, who himself part of the “full territorial form of government” for had been a creditable member of the Territorial the Territory. Senate, introduced in the House of There has been no public complaint or Representatives in congress, on July 20th, 1937, movement by the people of Alaska against the House Bill No. 6651, 74th Congress, first session, Territorial Senate. Our best citizens and wisest “An Act to provide for a Referendum in the Territory legislators have been among its members; they of Alaska as to the establishment of a one-house performed well their public duty. Such men as Legislature, and for other purposes.” Tripp, Tanner, Roden, Sutherland, Sulzer, Aldrich, With Delegate Dimond’s active influence and Heckman, Hunt, Ronan, Collins, Dimond, Pratt, support the Democratic Congress was persuaded Jensen, Lomen, Benjamin, Shattuck, Bragaw, to pass the bill; it was approved by President Walker, Brunelle, Frawley, Powers, Cochran – Roosevelt on August 16, 1937, and provides: these and other equally honorable and loyal “Be it enacted, etc., that at the general election Territorial senators have, for nearly a quarter of a held in the Territory of Alaska, in the year 1938, for century, aided in developing an American type of the election of a Delegate to Congress from full territorial form of government in Alaska. They Alaska, members of the Alaska Territorial were of the same brave and honest character of Legislature and such other officials of the Territory pioneers as those who built Territorial and State as may be by law then elective, each of the governments, upon the same principle as those qualified electors of the Territory shall be afforded adopted by our Revolutionary forefathers in the an opportunity to vote upon the question as to Constitution of the United States in 1787 – 150 whether a one-House Legislature shall be provided years ago – and extended to every territory west of for the Territory of Alaska, etc.” the Allegheny Mountains since that date – from the Delegate Dimond is an American-born citizen of Ohio Territory in 1787 to Hawaii in 1900. The the United States, has been a leading lawyer in Organic Act for Alaska was drawn from the same Alaska for twenty-five years, is intimately pattern with the same form of Legislature, having acquainted with the history of the origin and the Governor, Senate and House as its very base, development of the Constitution of the United as all others had. States, and also, particularly, of the Organic Act of When the Thirteenth Legislature of Alaska met in 1912, creating the Legislature of Alaska with the 1937, a member from Nome introduced House usual two houses, the Senate and House of Joint Memorial No. 6, being from the same in Representatives. He was an honored member of language and in purpose as the Green House Joint the Territorial Senate in Alaska for eight years, and Memorial No. 3, in the Legislature of 1935, to realizes better than any member of the House in repeal that clause of the Organic Act of Congress 1935, who voted to destroy the Territorial Senate, for the creation of an Alaska Territorial Senate. It its advantages and its necessity as a protection to was referred to a House committee for action, but the safety and best interests of the whole people of Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Alaska. 1787. That was the first and last act of the Delegate Dimond knows, too, that a unicameral Thirteen Colonies for the creation of a Territory legislature of 24 members as suggested in Mr. west of the Allegheny Mountains. That first United Greens Memorial, will cost exactly as much as and States Territory embraced a region covering the no more that two houses, one of 16 present states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, representatives, the other of 8 senators; he also Wisconsin and Minnesota. The Ordinance knows that the Organic Act of Alaska provides that provided that in that great, wild western territory, the United States pay all the expenses of the “the General Assembly, or Legislature, shall Alaska Legislature as it is now organized, and that consist of the Governor, Legislative Council and a there will be no saving of expense in the proposed House of Representatives.” And later when each abolishment of the Senate as stated in the Dimond of the Territories and States created out of the Referendum law. Ohio Territory prepared its individual Organic Act In the convention of 1787, called by Congress to and Constitution, each voluntarily created a meet in Philadelphia to form the Constitution of the Legislature consisting of the Governor, Senate and United States, George Washington was House of Representatives. That full form of unanimously chosen its President, and Benjamin National Territorial and State legislative Franklin, James Madison, and all those government is older than the United States Revolutionary statesmen who formed and signed Constitution. It is the full American form of the Constitution were among its active members. legislative government! On July 21st 1787, in the Committee of the whole, It was 150 years, to a day, from June 21st, 1787, after long and careful consideration on the question to June 20th, 1937, when Mr. Dimond introduced for resolving “that the Legislature ought to consist his Bill No. 6651 in the 74th Congress, first session, of two branches,” the delegates from the states of to begin the destruction of the American principle Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, of building a full territorial form of government in Vermont, North Carolina, South Carolina and Alaska. After thirty-two territorial governments, in Georgia voted Aye; those from New York, New that identical form in the great West beyond the Jersey and Delaware voted No; while those from Allegheny Mountains, have developed into free Maryland cast a divided vote on that question. American States of great wealth and have become Thus seven and one-half states voted in the pillars of strength in the richest and best governed affirmative, two and one-half sates voted in the nation on earth, where citizens have greater liberty negative, and Maryland divided its votes, whereby than ever in lands across the sea, it has occurred the bicameral or double-branch of the Congress of to a few unwise members of the lower House of the the United States was settled upon and agreed to, Alaska Legislature and the Delegate in Congress as it has existed ever since, with a Senate and to attempt to destroy, rather than to develop and House of Representatives. construct, a similar State government in Alaska, on Kentucky and Tennessee were created states by that national form. Congress in 1790, with the usual double legislative In the Democratic platform adopted by branches, but with-out any former Territorial form convention of delegates of that party at Seward in of government. An Ordinance for the government January 1936, it was declared as its first plank that: of the Territory of the United States northwest of “In keeping with the principle of representative the River Ohio was enacted by the Congress of the government, we urge home rule for Alaska, and to Confederation of the Thirteen Colonies, on July that end we not only favor a FULL TERRITORIAL 17th, 1787, just two months before the signing of FORM OF GOVERNMENT, but we also believe the Constitution in Philadelphia on September 17th, that all Federal and Territorial offices in Alaska ought to be filled * * * * by recognized members of difference between preserving the American “form” the party in power.” in developing American territories into American The names of Delegate Dimond and states, and in adopting new and needed powers for Representative Joe Green are signed to that the development and extension of such territories platform. They pledged their party and the people into new states as the necessities of the people who voted for them, to abide by and carry out that demand them. In his recent report to the Secretary plank, if elected; then afterward, and now, they of the Interior, the Governor made that perfectly propose and are urging the repeal of the Organic plain when he said: Law creating the Territorial Senate which is one of “1. I again recommend the establishment of a the main features of the “full territorial form of full Territorial form of government in Alaska. None government” which the candidates mentioned, are so well qualified to determine policies of pledged their honor to support. government and direct it as people who live in the Now, what is a “FULL TERRITORIAL FORM” of Territory. They are familiar with conditions, and government? The answer is certain, clear and 150 they are vitally interested in good government and years old, by the adoption in thirty-two “full Territorial growth. territorial forms” adopted by every Congress and “2. The Territorial Legislature should have equal Party since the organization of our Constitution in power with Congress to legislate on the fisheries 1787, including Washington Territory, and in our and game of Alaska and all needed subjects of Alaska Organic Act in 1912. So far as the legislation.” legislative branch of that “full territorial form of These statements by the Governor explain his government” is included, the “form” includes a position clearly. They are sensible, wise and Governor, a Territorial Senate and House of developing. They do not suggest the repeal and Representatives. destruction of any part of the “full territorial form of Every candidate for the Legislature proposed government” in Alaska. They only appeal for since the passage of the Alaska Organic Act of additional power to build better and stronger in 1912 which created the Alaska Legislature, has preparation for Statehood, as was done in the pledged his constituents to support a “full territorial Territories in the West where great States were form of government” in Alaska, always led in that constructed on the same territorial “form” and promise so widely made, by that able old foundations that Alaska now has. Democratic wheel horse, Governor John W. Troy, Governor Troy was born and raised in the whose battle cry for a decade has ever been in Territory of Washington, and has resided in the favor of that provision. A “full territorial form of Territory of Alaska for forty years. His brothers government” in Alaska has always meant that grew up as legislators under the “full territorial form FORM of territorial government which was adopted of government” in Washington, similar to that now with the Constitution of the United States in 1787, in force in Alaska, and aided in creating a first by the Congress of the Confederation, in the sovereign State in the American Union on that creation of the first Territory northwest of the river foundation. Neither of them, nor the Governor, can Ohio; and, second, enacted later in the be quoted, to this date, as demanding the repeal of organization of the Territories of Indiana, Illinois, any basic part of the full territorial form of primary Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota, and thereafter government which each supported so loyally for in all the western and southern Territories since half a century, in two great Territories. For an that date, including the Territories of Washington increase in legislative power in aid of wider and Alaska. prosperity and greater human freedom, yea; but for Governor Troy well appreciates the wide mere political change in form without greater Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 apparent benefit to the people of the Territory, and house, the Senate and the lower branch, has the with their well considered favor and public request, same practical power of veto as that possessed by no! the Governor, though to be exercised at different If a mere change of form by abolishing the times and in different ways – all and each to bar Territorial Senate is urged as desirable, might not the enactment of vicious or unnecessary that idea be extended to repeal that clause of the legislation. Organic Act which gives the Governor power to Assuming, now, the adoption of the proposed veto a bill which he considers objectionable to the plan of abolishing the Territorial Senate as a proper public welfare? Why not? His veto power is means of securing freedom in legislative action, by equally a block, a barrier, and sometimes a the creation of a single House of twenty-four necessary hindrance to legislative freedom to pass members, what will happen? A bill could be the laws a group of fanatics may want enacted. Of enacted into law, if the Governor is retained with course, if the Governor’s veto power were veto power, by an affirmative vote of 13 members, absolute, it would, or might, make him an with the approval of the Governor. If the Governor autocratic obstacle to the enactment of proper objected and vetoed the bill, then by a two-thirds laws. To avoid that evil, it is provided in the vote of the single House of twenty-four members, Organic Act of Alaska that his veto of both Houses the Governor’s objection could be overcome by and the bill passed into a valid law, notwithstanding sixteen votes in favor of the passage of the bill, his objection. notwithstanding his objection! And what will Congress do if such a referendum Suppose, then, you have a single House of from the voters of Alaska is presented to it? It will twenty-four members as compactly agreed as the not be bound to act in compliance with any request lower House was in 1935; suppose they were of the people, or of the Legislature of Alaska. The politically grouped, as Communists or whole matter of reorganizing our Legislature will Conservatives? Within the same few hours that then be wide open to the powers or prejudices of the 1935 House occupied in considering the Congress. Where will it stop, and who can guide question of repeal involved there, those twenty-four it? What other changes may it make in our men acting together, with sixteen votes, by legislative body, and, if so, how? Will it add largely overriding the Governor’s veto, could remove every increased powers of taxation; will it add, as it may, Territorial official in disagreement, appoint his increased taxes or license fees on the output of successor and change the whole body of the Alaska gold or fisheries; will it limit those powers, Territorial government in Alaska in one day! Such or what not? Will it provide for the election of the a Legislature might run wild in raising taxes, in legislators by proportional provisions, or by the making excessive appropriations or in passing ratio of population, and repeal our elections by revolutionary laws, without consulting the people, divisional districts? The people of Alaska had for there would be no check on their unlimited better let well enough alone! powers. Each of the two branches of the Legislature has Good laws, after American forms and principles, the same power of veto that is given to the will not lose virility by a brief delay and the Governor. Before a bill can become a law, even protection by reasonable bars, blocks and barriers with the approval of the Governor, it must have in their passage. Bad laws in violation of long passed each branch with a majority affirmative established American forms ought never to be vote. If either refuses or fails to pass it with an allowed immunity from those obstacles suggested affirmative majority vote, it cannot become a law, as dangerous by our Constitution makers of 1787, even with the Governor’s approval. So each and renewed and preserved in very state constitution and Territorial Organic Act since that Where are the faces we greeted each day, date. The Senate has always been the With the familiar old greeting, “Are you still in the pay?” Jimmy Kerry’s, the Opera House, the old Northern Café, conservative and safe body in the Alaska Ralph Boyker, Lon Griffin and old Jim McKay . . . Legislatures. It will be dangerous to the continued Bill McPhee, Harry Spencer, the Frenchman Ladue, existence of our “full territorial form of government” “Spieler” Kelley, Hans Stark from around Caribou. to allow unthinking or designing men to destroy it. Stanley & Worden, Skiff Mitchell, Charlie Lamb, Dick Lowe of the Fraction just below Carmack’s dam. It is particularly a bad time, just now, to begin to tear down that “form” of government which has Remember the Butler boys, Richard and Bill, guided and protected our people for 150 years in Frank Gotch and Joe Carroll took ‘em both for a spill. the development of the greatest nation on earth. Tom Lippy, Joe Putrow, Charlie Anderson, John Lee, Pickett and Hall, the whistling Joe Nee. The Territorial House voted unanimously to destroy The Berry boys, Clarence, Fred, Henry and Frank, one of our legislative safeguards; the Territorial “Swiftwater” Willie and Somers – old Hank. Senate saved the situation by defeating the plan by The big Swede Andy Olson, John Martin the Greek, a vote of six against, and only two for it. The six John Nelson, Ray Stewart and young Billy Leek. Where’s Frank Phiscator, Bill Ligget, Jim York, senators who stood bravely for the American form Joe Lamie, Ike Jensen, Humbolt Gates and John Bourke? of government and principles are entitled to honor for so doing. Old Captain Constantine of the Mounted Police, Every citizen in the United States in Alaska, “Nigger” Jim Daugherty and Louis Langloise. every man and every woman who can vote, ought The Treasure boys, Benny and Jimmy –some team- Pete and Sid Wilson, prospectors supreme. to vote against the proposed destruction of the Billy Lloyd and his “rocker” song cheering the crowd, Territorial Senate when the question “as to whether Frank Buteau, Morency, Charlie Hill talking loud. a one-house Legislature shall be provided for the Bob English, whose whiskers were long and quite blond, Territory of Alaska” is submitted to the voters at the Peters the jeweler, and young Louis Pond- The A.C. employees, Jim Wert and Big Steve, general election in the year 1938. Smiling George Russell, with never a peeve. JAMES WICKERSHAM Juneau, Alaska Cap. Hansen, Charlie Debney, big-hearted John Raap, January, 1938 Bill Fairbanks, Mizener, Trenneman, Pop Lindsay, McGowan who knew the law’s kinks, Gold weigher Al Whistle; Bob Menzies, he winks [also clipping pasted on inside front cover:] At old Uncle Hoffman who loaned money galore, HOGGATT, WILFORD BACON, ’84. Died on At two per cent monthly, three balls o’er the door. February 26, 1938, after a prolonged illness at the Father Judge built the hospital and broke himself down, Nursing old timers and folks around town. U.S. Veterans’ Hospital in New York, N.Y. He was Bill and Ma Huson’s old Bank Café, Governor of Alaska from 1906 to 1909. Sam Bonnifield’s corner. Where’s Billy McRae? Diary 46, 1937 [next page] September [3 U.S.P.S. postage stamps with picture of Alaska And Henry Macaulay, Dawson City’s first mayor, Barney Sugrue, dear old Barney, and big Harry Hare. – Mt. McKinley in background, farm in foreground – Where’s young Gene LaPorte from up on Last Chance? 3 cent] Jack Eilbeck is kidding Duff Pattulo’s white pants. [1 U.S.P.S. postage stamp with picture of Stratford Billy Wright, Bert Parker, young Tommy McSmart, Hall and busts of Lee and Jackson – 4 cent] And dear Bert Collyear, the man with a heart. Lee Loomis and Manley, two clever young traders, Sold hay and oat burners for stages and graders. [clipping of poem:] Where’s Mushon Fred Jansa with his cute little can, Klondike Memories Peddling sandwiches, weinies, and where’s Pat Moran? Up in the Klondike under the Yukon’s spell, Diary 46, 1938 Mem’ries of places we all knew so well- September Bob Service, the bank clerk, the world’s famous poet, Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Br’ot fame to the Yukon, and gold to his pocket. Diary 46, 1938 October 1, 1937. Where’s Marchbank’s Del Monte, Joe Jourdan’s Bodega? October 1-2 The brief in the Femmer case has given me much Field’s Northern Annex and Sargent & Pinska? Where’s the old “M. & N.,” Dominion, Bonanza, trouble in research, but I am at last able to see the Monte Carlo, Savoy and Tom Chisholm’s Aurora. end of the theory of the case & hope to finish it as There was “Spare Rib” Jim Mackinson’s up at the Forks, soon as the printed Transcript reaches me from the George Noble’s Criterion, and the old soda pop works. clerks office in San Francisco. Recd. letter from “Snowy” and Billy Owens, Jim O’Neal, Jack Devine, Dan and Ed Anderson, and young Jakey Kline. Darrell – he and Jane are well and happy which Charlie Frey and Ben Davis, two upright young men, makes me so. Peddled cigars and tobacco, played solo and pan. -Oct. 2- Femmer case study as yesterday Where are the old steamboats, the Alice, May West, The Cudahy, Hannah, the lower river’s best? Bar Association today – just eating & the The upper river flagship-the Goddard, supreme, announcement that Faulkner would give the Made the historical first round trip upstream. Association the [?] 3 weeks from today as the The Ora, Nora and Flora, what a vanishing fleet, Norwegian Consul! Japan-China war fierce & The old Captains were men, though sometimes indiscreet. And where’s the sky pilots, Bishops Stringer and Rowe, bloody! Who spent useful lives visiting the humblest igloo. Diary 46, 1937 -Oct. 3- And dear old George Pringle of Klondike Creeks fame October 3-8 Sunday: worked in the office, but cannot do much And Rev. Hall Young-they worked in God’s name. on Femmer Brief till the printed Record Transcript

Gene Allen of the “Nugget,” Art Dever of the “News,” comes. Not arrived from Clerks office S.F. yet. Art George, and Buel-he loved to amuse Oct. 4-5-6-7. With his clever cartoons-a real Sourdough, Working on Femmer Brief etc. We wonder whatever became of Frank Lowe? Wrote long letter to Darrell. The gambling fraternity, on the whole a good bunch, th You could always win out if you had the right hunch. -8 - And what a wonderful country to grow healthy and wise, I am about finished with work on the Femmer Brief Where you caught a nice breakfast through a hole in the ice! – it has been a laborious task and I am glad to -“Griff.” approach the end. I cannot finish it because I have

not yet received the printed official transcript of Diary 46, 1937 1937 September 27- th Record from the Clerk of U.S. court at S.F. yet. September 27 th 30 Diary 46, 1937 -9 – Working on Brief in Femmer vs City of Juneau and th October 9-10 Same as usual – Femmer Brief. Sunday 10 but Northland Transportation Company, on appeal to worked in the office for I am scared on the tricks U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, San Francisco – a the defendants may play on us by a dismissal of longwinded case made by the City officials and the this contract – but we think we have them beaten if Northland Co. – which last defendant has an easy they stand up to the assignment & the U.S. Circuit contract and does not want a decision – especially Court of Appeals consider it fully. against it. th -10 - -28th – Finished Femmer brief & gave it to Roden to read. Same as yesterday on Femmer Brief. – its a hard He has not given me an hours assistance in its case & the Judges opinion makes it harder! preparation. I am disgusted with Roden – he wont -29th- help me draw the brief, but is voluble in criticising Same as yesterday in office. what and how I do. He is an obstacle and not an -30- aid, it is discouraging to work with him. Same as yesterday on Femmer Brief! Diary 46, 1937 -11th- Diary 46, 1937 -18th – October 11-15 In the office – trying to catch up with my October 18-19 Sent a copy of my Bibliography of Alaskan Lit. to correspondence. Jim. ONeill, S.F. also my correspondence with the -12- West Publishing Co. about Resume of courts & Nothing yet from Clerk U.S. Circuit Court of Laws in Alaska, to Darrell with a request to return Appeals in the way of Printed Record on Appeal. I them etc. when he has read them. Also letter am inclined to cut my brief down – its too long - & about divorce from an insane wife to Capt. LaGasa the cost of printing excessive. – now at Kodiak – she is insane – has been for 12 -13-14-15- years, at Northern Washington Hospitals, at Sedro Recd letter from Clerk U.S.C.C. at San Francisco Wooley – Supt. writes incurable! saying printed record in Femmer case forwarded -19th- but no record, yet. Same as usual in the office. I became impatient at the slow aid given to me by Received copy of Naval officers with Alaska Femmer’s private stenographer in copying my articles & beautiful photos from Erskine, written parts of the Brief in the case against Kodiak Diary 46, 1937 19 Diary 46, 1937 -16th - October 19-20 the City and asked them to return the Ms. to me – it October 16 Received a fine copy of Fontonell’s The Northern was good that I did for it was so badly done that I Worthiness, the lives of “Worthys” – Peter the am rewriting it. Nothing yet from the printed Great & Catherine 1st, London, 1730, 2nd Ed. An Transcript of the Record on Appeal in that case. English translation from the French. It is not much Attended a meeting of the Tuberculosis Assoc. of a book & seems to be material copied from the sending out letters all over the Territory to gather earlier English books by travelers & diplomats. funds for the cure of that disease & rules of Also Erskine, from Kodiak, sent me a copy of U.S. conduct etc. Naval Institute Proceedings July 1937. Alaska -20th - number – filled with articles by Naval officers. Also Working in the office as usual. Mrs. Mildred R. I received copy of a recent book “The Klondike Hermann, lady attorney has rented the room Nugget,” based on Genl Allen’s newspaper of that adjoining mine and starts off with enthusiasm to title established in Dawson in June 1898. No copy practice law. She has a husband who has a of the printed record in Femmer v City, received lucrative business in the Juneau Drug Store, and yet. will be sure of support anyway. Diary 46, 1937 -17th – Diary 46, 1937 -20th – October 17-18 Sunday – at home writing letters. October 20-22 The Methodist Aid Society met at our house today -18th - – Grace is very fond of Mrs. Kenan, the President Alaska Day – 70th Birthday of that society. Dolores is a member of that church Seventy years ago today the Russians formally also. As were the Vroomans – Graces parents. transferred Alaska – or Russian America, as they -21st – called it to Genl. Rousseau, U.S. Commissioner for In the office as usual – no printed record so far. the United States – the Czars flag was lowered and On application at the Post Office the clerk said that of Uncle Sam was raised to the top of the flag packages would be put out tomorrow – slow mail, pole on Baranov’s Castle hill, The school teacher but I cannot finish my brief until I get the Transcript at Douglas telephoned me to come over & talk – tomorrow – or whenever it is reached by the slow about it to the children – raining, blowing and sorry mail. I could not go. -22- Same as yesterday. Recd today Transcript in Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Femmer case from S.F. Diary 46, 1937 29 October 29 I am very much pleased with Mifs Bowdens work as copyist – she rather disappointed me in making Diary 46, 1937 -23rd – October 23-24 the charge for her work – she charged me only Attended setting of cases for trial in court this 00 $20 . When I offered to pay her more for her morning: my case of Bond vs Dyrdahl, et. al. will be really fine work, she refused to accept the increase tried when the jury cases – criminal & others are – which she was really entitled to – she earned a finished: Attended the Bar Association luncheon larger sum, and I will try to make it up hereafter! specially given by H.L. Faulkner, as Deputy Consul I must now read the Ms. and also take up for Denmark, lawyer, to the members of the bar Bremner’s story of the discovery & development of and a party of his friends – a fine luncheon and a the Yukon basin gold fields, by him and the Indians pleasant occasion. who first found gold on the Koyukuk, & at Rampart, -24th - Birch creek – these by John Minook, Pitka & Sunday: Working on Femmer Brief. The Printed Sorresco! Transcript enables work- & I must now get it th Diary 46, 1937 -30 – finished soon. October 30-31 Printing on Femmer Brief O.K. It is extending more Diary 46, 1937 -25- & farther, but I am having it our with the printers October 25-27 In the office as usual working on the final now. conclusion of the Femmer Brief. It has been a st -31 - nightmare, but I can now see the end – the tail end Sunday. Grace & I reread the Ms. Old Yukon of the animal! Trails today for comparison with the two type -26th – written copies, made at different times - & we find My Femmer Brief is done all but a final touch, when many small corrections & put in 14 hours doing so it will be ready to print – its not satisfactory, but still – I will send it – the best copy – to my I am convinced! correspondent L.S. Mercer, of the West Publishing -27- Co. for reading & on the suggestion that it is a Still “finishing” that damn Femmer Brief all done but biography of myself & my law reports - & the Co. table of cases. might print it for that reason! Roden has not given me an hour of assistance – st Diary 46, 1937 November 1 – 1937 has greatly hindered me with refusal!! November 1-2 Struggling with printers to get the Femmer Brief Diary 46, 1937 -28th – finished – it’s a job. Mrs. Dr. Shore came on the October 28-29 The Femmer brief is finally in the printers hands – boat today from Anchorage – Seward – Joe Kehoe, though I will yet have to prepare the Subject Index U.S. Attorney at Valdez has filed charges against with a proper arrangement of the authorities – but Dr. Shore for misconduct – unprofessional – as that cannot be done until the Mss. is set in type & physician at Anchorage – before the Territorial paged – any way work is done. th Medical board – set for hearing here in Juneau, -29 - th Dec. 15 1937. Advised her as to his defense, This day received from Mifs A. Bowden a very gave a letter to Lawyer Warren N Cuddy, competent typist the final copy of my Ms. on “the Anchorage $100. retainer. Alaska Gold Fields – Juneau and Treadwell” 98 -Nov. 2- pages – really a carefully prepared & typed story of Same as yesterday – in the office the early discovery and development of gold in rd Diary 46, 1937 3 S.E. Alaska (over) November 3-4 Femmer brief finished printing. Grace assisted me very much! Printers will deliver it tomorrow. It is not Congress. Fire broke out in Burford’s notion store satisfactory, but I could not get Henry Roden to – paper etc. tonight about 8 pm. – store in the assist me in its preparation. He was as Valentine Bldg. – immediately underneath my unsatisfactory as the brief! office, considerable damage to Burford – but did -Nov. 4th- not reach my office – put out by the Fire Appointed Notary Public today – expired Oct. 17 – department. last. Diary 46, 1937 -9th - Printers are slow in finishing the Brief in the November 9 Same as usual in the office. Femmer case, but no boat going south for three Cyril Zuboff, present[?] the President of the Alaska days! Mike Sullivans Yakataga oil case papers Native Brotherhood, called. He is going over to about concluded! Kake to attend the annual assembly of the Alaska Diary 46, 1937 -5th -6th - Native Brotherhood assembly tomorrow. He told November 5-6 Saturday – The Juneau Bar Assoc held its weekly me that Wm. L. Paul had been catching the official meeting out at Robertsons country club house – radio, telephone messages between Juneau and near Auke Bay – on the shore and beach today. Kake on his short wave radio and giving the Jack Mullen, Pres. Behrends Bank and Bob information (?) etc. to Mrs. Hermann. Mrs. H. also Coughlin, clerk of the District Court, provided the came in later & told me the same story! Mrs. M. is liquor, cigars & food – a big party – all the lawyers as busy as bee, these days, in trying Indian cases. except Grigsby & Faulkner attended. I went out I am told that she is working with Paul! on some with Banfield in his fine automobile – good dinner. basis! Heard the football game Huskies – U. of W & Diary 46, 1937 -10th - Berkeley Bears – over telephone – the “boys” who November 10 After talking the Indian land case over with Zuboff, enjoyed “red liquor” enjoyed to party. and thinking about it I sent the following telegram Diary 46, 1937 -7th – today. November 7-8 Sunday – Wrote letter etc. to Dr. Shore Anchorage “President Alaska Native Brotherhood Assembly, & Warren N. Cuddy, Atty. about charges preferred Kake, Alaska: If any further reference is made to against the Doctor by Juneau Medical Board. Joe my employment as an attorney for the recovery in Kehoe’s signature – giving my views on defense – the Tlingit and Haida Tribal land suit authorized by on Dec. 15th. the Act of Congress June 19, 1935, Public 152, say -8th - to the natives assembled at Kake that I will not Cleaning up papers etc. in Femmer case – Brief accept employment in that case stop Tribes have etc. gone to S.F. Asked Boyle, Auditor to send been so unjustly betrayed in Washington through copy of the Compiled Laws of Alaska, 1933, to the Collier amendments made at the last moment clerk of the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for their without notice to you that it is no longer honest or library – may be needed in the Femmer case. favorable to your interests and I will not mislead Have read the brief & it is not bad! The Tweet you with the promise that it will be beneficial to you Diary 46, 1937 8 or to them stop Any judgment obtained in that November 8 Mr. & Mrs. Tweet & children called at my office to case if any kindly pay their respects – they have lived for many Diary 46, 1937 10 years at Teller, on Port Clarence, above Nome – November 10-11 can be secured will be expended by the most they tell me mining in the region there is improving extravagant and selfish Bureau in the government – they are in mining, and taking the first trip outside service and your people will never receive payment in many years. I had much correspondence with for their ancestral lands fisheries homes and them & the head of the Tweet family when I was in property as they ought stop I fear that your tribes Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 will go to a poverty stricken old age while groups of First Alaska Stamp received. dishonest bureau officials will enjoy the (fruits) The new Alaska stamp is ordered by thousands of funds which are honestly yours and I do not intend philatelists – from the states. to be a party to the frauds against you. -Nov. 13th - James Wickersham The Alaska-Juneau Bar Association held its weekly Telegram sent by night radio telephone. lunch at the penthouse on top of the Juneau -11th - Electric Light & Power Co. new building, on Armistice day – a holiday – at home most of the invitation of Pullen day reading translation of Doroshin’s report Diary 46, 1937 13 (Russian) on prospecting for gold in Russian November 13 the local manager of that company. America (Alaska, after 1867). Mifs Francis Harland During the luncheon I sat at a small table with called – we went over her translation & typing of Henry Roden, born & educated in Germany, and Doroshin’s Russian report – she corrected same – Hugh J. Wade, a “New Deal” office holder, and looks O.K. & I think she is a competent translator – they brought up the subject of changing the 50 paid her $11 Organic Act of 1912, Alaska, by repealing that part Diary 46, 1937 -12th - of the Act providing for a Territorial Senate as part November 12 The new U.S. Alaska stamp is issued by U.S. of the Alaska Legislature. I promptly opposed the Postoffice this day. Grace bought 50 Alaska three project, and they both advocated it strongly! cent stamps – had Jack Hawkes get them after 12 Roden challenged me to put my argument in oclock last night. writing so that he could publicly oppose it! I Had a long conference with Chappell – who is returned that I was “an American” & strongly organizing the Alaska Genl. Ins. Co. but so far his believed in the American system of constitutional results are not satisfactory. Had talk with John checks & Reck, Pres. of the First Nat. Bank on Monday, 8th & Diary 46, 1937 13 he is not satisfied either & said he would not take November 13 balances” such as had been created by Franklin, any stock in the Co. I am about of same opinion – Monroe, Jefferson, Washington & the Fathers of not enough financial interest in the Territory – too our American Constitution & forms of government. much Chappell!! I Wade joined Roden in denouncing these great Diary 46, 1937 12 founders and I defended them and their work. The November 12 told Chappell that he must get business men of argument grew hot and I grew still hotter – and told established capital to act as Committees in Roden he was not an American etc. etc. I shall Fairbanks, Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, etc. so take a public part in denouncing Dimond, who as to make the proposed stockholders have introduced & secured a passage of a bill, act in confidence before they will pay up & put the project resolution in Congress permitting the people of in confidence with those who are asked to Alaska to vote on the matter at the next election! subscribe. Chappell told me he had deposited The “New Deal” is so powerful that it may persuade $10,000 subscriptions with Reck as trustee – Reck the people of Alaska to adopt the scheme, but I will told me two or three days ago that Chappell had fight it to the end of the struggle!! only deposited with him, as trustee, the sum of Diary 46, 1937 -14- $4,185.00!! I believe Reck, and I am sorry to be November 14-15 [clipping] obliged to to withdraw my confidence in Chappell. CYRIL ZUBOFF Diary 46, 1937 12 PRESIDENT OF November 12-13 [Envelope addressed to Wickersham with new BROTHERHOOD Alaska stamp on it] Mrs. Bessie Miller of Juneau Elected Head of Alaska queer mix up – maybe he will get Henry Roden to Native Sisterhood assist him – for Henry is a good attorney – though Cyril Zuboff of Juneau was elected President of a crazy communist! the Alaska Native Brotherhood for the third term at Received affidavits, etc. from Dr. W.B. Shore, the convention which closed in Kake Saturday, Anchorage in the case before the Medical Board to according to information received here. Other disbar him for abortion etc. Charges in that case officers elected were: are made by Kehoe, U.S. atty, and I assume that David Howard, Sitka, and David Morgan, Tatitlik, means that the Doctor will be indicted at Valdez for vice presidents; Frank Johnson, Kake, secretary; that crime. The Dr. & his nurse deny the charge!! Don Miller, Wrangell, treasurer, and Herbert Diary 46, 1937 -16th - Bradley, Wrangell, sergeant-at-arms. November 16 Busy in the office – getting ready to try the case of Mrs. Bessie Miller of Juneau was elected Bond v Green-Dyrdahl on the 26th – witnesses in president of the Alaska Native Sisterhood, and today. other officers chosen were: Poor Mrs. Walstein G. Smith died today – heart Mabel Willard, Wrangell, vice president; Mrs. disease! She was one of the close friends of both Anna Zuboff, Juneau, secretary; Mrs. Andrew Grace & myself – and a fine good woman. Wannamaker, Angoon treasurer, and Mrs. Evelyn Her husband was Territorial Treasurer for many Johnson, Kake, sergeant-at-arms. years – just appointed by Gov. Strong & elected by Klawock was voted as the next convention city the people of Alaska for other terms. He is now the and the convention went on record for abolition of V.P. of the First National Bank. intoxicating liquor from Alaska; asking a change in Wrote to Dr. Shore on this mornings boat – about the Enabling Act relative to land title by Thlinget his case in the Medical Bond, etc. to his Atty. Ellis. and Haida Indians; for a further campaign on Diary 46, 1937 -17th - tuberculosis among the natives of Alaska. November 17 Preparing a statement in re. the Act of Congress The convention authorized the organizing of dated Aug. 16th 1937, H.R. 6651, 75 Cong. 1st other divisions and officers for a tour of Southeast Sess. introduced by Dimond “To provide a Alaska in the spring. The Alaskan was named the referendum in the Territory of Alaska as to the official organ and Albert White the Brotherhood establishment of a one-house Legislature” etc. attorney. Among visitors were Mrs. C.W. Wade, of some one must oppose this attempt to emasculate Juneau, organizer for the W.C.T.U. Delegate the Legislature and no one else seems called coming the farthest distance was Max Italio of upon, and since I prepared the Organic Act of Aug. Yakutat. 24, 1912, containing the framework proposed to be destroyed I feel that I must defend it – hence my Sunday – as usual at home in library. work. It may be destroyed – but I hope not – for -15th - the New Deal has no regard for fundamental laws. The Indians seem to be in opposition to Paul – but Diary 46, 1937 -18th - they have been apparently controlled by Al. White November 18 I am just in receipt from Dawson’s Bookstore – – who is retained as their Attorney, which will not Book Shop, they call it – 627 So. Grand Ave. Los please the officials of the Indian Bureau. Al. is (1) Angeles, Cal. of a fine old copy of “Kwanki ibun” 16 a prominent Republican, and (2) is a very poor vols. in case. 1793, in Japanese cursive, with lawyer. I just colored pictures of what the Japanese sailors saw Diary 46, 1937 15 who were cast away on Unalaska Island, taken in November 15 wonder what the U.S. powers will do about having charge by the Russians & thence to St. Petersburg him represent the Indians in the land suit. It’s a around Cape Horn, and the Hawaiian Islands back Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 to Japan. “The Great Circumnavigation – the first Diary 46, 1937 26 journey made by the Japanese around the world. November 26 all day – a hard fought battle & we are much It is a valuable Alaska item – cost me $3000. pleased at the result. The court gave a fair verdict Diary 46, 1937 -20- – against us for %500.00 and costs, but it was November 20-21 Saturday – Juneau Atty Assoc. luncheon. Percys much less than I expected – or feared – and settles Café. George Grigsby read a letter from an Utah the case! We will not appeal! Bond had tendered Attorney – Wilson – which created much merriment $710200 & interest as settlement – the tender is in – it was in answer to one from George – who read court & will be used to pay the amount – judgment Wilsons letter with great humor. George ought to & costs. Bond wont get a cent for he owes have been an actor. Faulkner a large sum for former services where -21st - Bond was threatened with deportation for unlawful Working on statement in opposition to plan to entry from a foreign country. Dyrdahl is much repeal the Act of Congress establishing the pleased! Territorial Senate. – Joe Green’s memorial of res. Diary 46, 1937 -27th – 35, Dimonds referendum by H.R. 6651, June 21, November 27-28 Faulkner has this day presented his idea of 1936! a fool provision. Findings of Fact & Conclusions of Law & Diary 46, 1937 -22nd – Judgment, which he wants me to agree to & I November 22-24 Same as yesterday at the office. Bumner Copper object to his description of the ground in dispute – mines at night.[?] it does not describe the ground in litigation & 23rd enlarges the are in dispute, demands interest on Invited Juneau Bar Association to meet at my the judgment from the date of the agreement with home on Dec. 4th for luncheon. Working on Nelson, etc. etc. preparation of evidence etc. in the case of Bond vs -28th - Green Nelson. Dyrdahl set for trial before Judge Sunday. Spent the day in my library studying the Alexander, without jury on the 26th. Made Bremner prospecting trip from Sitka to Yakutat bay agreement with Faulkner to submit Femmer on in 1881-4, and preparing the facts for publication in briefs - waived oral argument. my proposed Ms. on Gold mining. -24th - Diary 46, 1937 -29th – 31st – Working on case of Bond v Green & Nelson – to be November 29- In the office studying my proposed objection to the December 2 tried on the 26th. judgment in the Bond case. Diary 46, 1937 -25th – -December 1, 1937- November 25-26 Thanksgiving Day! Have convinced Faulkner that he is wrong in his Worked in office getting ready for trial of Bond v Findings etc. in the Bond case, as to the Nelson & Green – tomorrow. The Hawkes will description of the land in dispute – the error is now have dinner with us today at my request the Forest corrected in his proposed Findings, but have yet Service gave Jack Hawkes a job –beginning the objection that he charges illegal interest. yesterday & he is very much pleased – it is an -2- inside job – in the Forest Service shops here in In the office engaged in preparing an article in town with a good salary – and may last all winter – opposition to the Act of Congress introduced by any way he is pleased – so that’s that. Grace & Delegate Dimond “To Mrs. H. are also delighted – so it ought to be a Diary 46, 1937 2 happy dinner for all concerned! December 2-3 provide for a Referendum in the Territory of Alaska -26- as to the establishment of a one-house Legislature”

Trial of Bond v Green & Nelson etc. to repeal the clause in the Organic Act of Aug. 24, 1912, to elect a Legislature with a Senate & a – Dyrdahl case. I prepared a copy of my bill House of Representatives.” against Mrs. D. showing a balance of $220.81 due -2nd continued. me & dictated a letter to her asking her attention Same as yesterday on objection to changing the before she leaves for California tonight. Mrs. form of Legislature. Wickersham typed the letter & I asked her to give it Prepared objections & exceptions to proposed to a taxi driver & ask him to deliver it. Findings of Fact, Con. of Land & Judgment in Bond Diary 46, 1937 6 v Green-Dyrdahl, Dist. Court. December 6-8 in about 20 minutes she returned & handed me 3rd Dyrdahls check for the correct amount – she had Same in the office. Dyrdahl in & demands that his gone in the taxi & delivered the letter herself & wife, now have an enlarged area of ground & Dyrdahl had promptly given her the check, & that’s Motion to be heard tomorrow – court that! Diary 46, 1937 -4th - -8th- December 4 Motion calendar called. When I attempted to argue Another one: Faulkner & Banfield who fought me my motion – Faulkner & Stabler opposed by calling in the Bond v Dyrdahl case – where I won on an up the matter of enlarging the area of lot 5-Blk. 15, accurate map made by Metcalf, C.E. had a case to be included in judgment in favor of my Dyrdahl for Charlie Wagner & made a sketch map – but got client. Stabler declared that Dyrdahl was entitled their directions wrong – went down one side & an to an extension of area – that he represented end - & then back on the same line – Judge Tverten[?] & Dyrdahl. Faulkner representing Bond. Alexander threw them out of course! I objected for the whole case was tried on Diary 46, 1937 -9th - description in contract between Green & Mrs. December 9 For two or three days I’ve been writing a political Green (now Dyrdahl) and was correct – but I article against the Bill for a referendum on the smiled, objected on the record & let the court do as attempt to abolish the Territorial Senate – House of Diary 46, 1937 4 Rep. U.S. No 6651, passed by Congress, which December 4 he thought best. Court overruled my motion to m[?] an election at the general date next fall. The strike interest & I do not yet know what he did Democrats have long declared in favor of a “full about enlarging area allowed Dyrdahl & shall make Territorial Form of government” – but now they are no further objection!! switching to a new declaration in favor of Bar Association met at my house today at 1230 for abolishing the Senate. Following Roosevelt they luncheon. Mrs. Wickersham & Mrs. Mildred are growing more & more in favor of the Hermann (Mrs. Herman is a member of the bar) dictatorship of the President the same as Italy & gave the luncheon. Every lawyer in Juneau, Germany – the First form of government – I except J.A. Hellenthal who was sick, attended & oppose! ladies gave them a fine luncheon!! Judge Diary 46, 1937 -10th – Alexander in attendance & it was really a December 10-12 Studying Green-Dimonds efforts to abolish the interesting & enjoyable luncheon. Territorial Senate & writing my objections! The Diary 46, 1937 -5th – more I thunk over the matter the more I am December 5-6 Bad day remained at home in my library copying opposed to it. John Bremners diary – out of Seton-Karr “Shores & -11th – Alps of Alaska,” 2204 Biblio. Sent a night letter last evening to Dr. Shore, -6th - Anchorage, inquiring if he is coming to defend In the office, but am taking on a cold. Have had a against charges. queer experience with my attorney fee in the Bond Bar Association, etc. met today. Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 -12th - Diary 46, 1937 -17- Sunday – at home. Received a telegram from Mrs. December 17 Dr. Wm B. Shore, Anchorage physician & Mifs Dr. Shore saying he & his chief witness are aboard Lucile Atkinson, his nurse witness in the case we the Alaska – coming to Juneau. tried yesterday, had diner with us this evening. Diary 46, 1937 -13th - Mrs. Wickersham and Mifs Atkinson went to the December 13 Mrs. Mildred Hermann just in to tell me that two of “movies”, while the Doctor & I sat in my library & the young fellows she unsuccessfully defended talked “books” & big game hunting & enjoyed both. attempted a “jail break” this morning. They beat up I formed a good opinion of both the Doctor & Mifs the guards in the jail, etc. – too bad, for they will Atkinson. probably go on trial now for that – and may get During the forenoon of the 16th – Jack Hawkes – years more in the penitentiary! the Hawkes family occupy the top floor of my Prepared a Demurrer & objections against – house – fell in the warehouse while at work for the Complaint filed by Kehoe against Dr. Wm B. Shore, Forest Service and some heavy freight fell on him physician of Anchorage, alleging abortion, etc. & broke two or three ribs – he is pretty badly hurt & Grace busy sending out Christmas presents to the will be laid in the hospital for a month or more – Dr. folks – go out on boat tomorrow. Dr. Shore coming Dawes thinks. on that boat. Diary 46, 1937 -18th - Diary 46, 1938 -14- December 18 In the office as usual. Judge Harry Pratt – from December 14-15 File demurrer & objections to the Charges against Fairbanks in town. He is the son of Judge Louis K. Dr. Wm B. Shore, with the Alaska Territorial Pratt. 3 Alaska Reports, p. 400, who gave me Medical Board. Dr. Dawes & Dr. Council present. much annoyance while I was on the bench at Also got them to agree to hear the matter & the Fairbanks – in Nov. 1907, etc. etc. Harry is a fine case on the 16th at 10 oclock on Thursday. Shore young man and is making a good record as U.S. is enroute from Seward on the boat – but it may not District Judge at Fairbanks – the “old man” – his get there tomorrow on account of storms & slow father – is yet active, vigorous, pugnacious, etc. boat. and runs his old law office in Fairbanks & fights -15th - Harry the same as he did me, when his son Dr. shore & his nurse arrived this morning – long decides a case against him his clients! Bar Assoc. conference – secured John Newman, court today! Judge Harry Pratt a guest spoke. stenographer, to take testimony tomorrow morning Diary 46, 1937 -19th – in Shore case. December 19-20 Sunday – in my library Diary 46, 1937 -16th - Jack Hawkes was pretty badly hurt – 4 ribs broken December 16 Trial of Dr. Shore before Territorial Medical Board – & general smash up but he seems to be recovering we won! They sustained my demurrer – that they satisfactorily. had no jurisdiction to try Shore for criminal abortion Studying Lt. Allen’s Exploration of the Copper River – that was to be done by the Dist. Court on – Bremner etc. indictment – jury trial etc. Held charge of betraying -20th - professional suit was trivial - & the charge of deceit Writing my views in opposition to Dimonds bill to & fraud not proven – but held it for consideration secure a referendum vote in favor of abolishing the next regular meeting next September!! A complete Territorial as part of our full Territorial form of vindication to date & Shore will go on with his government, which will be voted on at the professional work until next Sept. Dr. Shore very Territorial election next fall. I shall oppose the much pleased - & so I am also. Dr. Shore is a fine repeal of the Territorial Senate! man – a big game hunter & good company. Diary 46, 1937 -21st – sufficient money in my house and lot fronting on December 21-22 Same as yesterday in the office. Franklin St. between 4th and 5th if I can make a sale -22nd - –to keep me 2 years & do the book work besides & Same as yesterday – had a tooth extracted today – Grace is anxious to have it done as soon as the the first one I have had “pulled” – three others lost money is assured! to which I agree – consent. in years gone by, one by accident – two when the I sent copy of my objection to the Dimond Act Selby’s beat me up in Valdes, 10 years or more repealing the Alaska Senatorial clauses in the ago. Good teeth. organic act to the Ketchikan Chronicle editor with Shortest day of the year! letter, asking the prices of reprint from his type. Darrell sent me $10000 for Christmas present – Diary 46, 1937 -27- charged Dr. Shore $10000 additional - $200 in all December 27 Same as usual – Grace has bad cold. In the for defending him before the Medical Board on offices as usual. Working on Bremners journey charges made by Kehoe – we won the contest! into the Yukon – down the Tanana river with Lt. Diary 46, 1937 -23rd – Allen U.S.A. on epic ride, that down the Tanana December 23-24 As usual in the office. Grace is busy sending river – 5 white men on an unknown river – two of Christmas presents - & getting ready for our dinner the party suffering with scurvey tainted bodies – – she has invited Dr. & Mrs. Dawes & their neice, helpless, - party without supplies or guides, a Mifs Pariot(?), while Mr. Mike Sullivan & Woodrow raging river, over rapids, through dupts[?] – arrived Atkinson, are my guests. – last, and best, she has at Nuklukayot – Fort Adams, on June 26, 1885! invited Mifs Ann Coleman, who is the present City Allen was tall, strong, a born leader, and a hero! Librarian & a longtime friend of Graces. I like Ann His report says “In running down the Tanana river I very much too. was ten days without foot gear of any derivation -24th - and suffered no discomfort. This was true that he Same in the office. Christmas cards coming in – and his 3 work[?] men had to be ready at every and going out! Red paper, packages, Christmas moment to jump into the water cheer! Diary 46, 1937 27 Diary 46, 1937 Saturday, December 25, 1937. December 27-30 to keep the skin canoe from overturning and December 25 Christmas Day throwing the two sick into the water, where they Clear, cold, windy, no snow, fine! We had a fine would have quickly drowned! turkey dinner – and a pleasant visit with our -28- friends. Received a Christmas telegram from Ruth Bad Taku wind & snow storm. with Christmas greetings. Jack Hawes is getting along well. Grace made loaves of good home The “Alaska” and “Yukon” steamers tied up at bread – sent our neighbors loaves! Grace & Dr. anchor in safe harbors. Dawes took photographs. Mrs. Dawes repeated -29- her favorite poems, Ann Coleman told stories Fierce storm of wind & snow – boats still in harbors Woodrow Atkinson & Mifs Parrott, “spooned” – – I remained at home talked low & in love in the corner. I enjoyed myself -30th - and Grace looked after us all! Storms abating – the “Alaska” in Juneau last night Diary 46, 1937 -26th - Yukon coming in tonight. In the office today – December 26 Grace & I considered our finances & whether I nothing unusual – sent letter “air mail” to Darrell, could employ Mifs Frances Harland to assist in the S.F. so as to get there before he leaves (Jany 5) in final work on some of my historical notes about the trip to City of Numes[?] History of Alaska – Mining etc. etc. I have Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 [clipping] Same as usual in the office. Talked to Grover “I am sending this card to tell you, Winn & Faulkner – they are friendly to my That the New Deal has taken away, objections to Repeal of the Ter. Senate, & urge its The things that I really needed. being printed in numbers before Feb. 1st – before My workshop, my reindeer, my sleigh, Rep. Primaries etc. Now I’m making my rounds on a donkey, Diary 46, 1938 -6-7-8- He’s old and crippled and slow, January 6-9 Working to get my objections to the Dimond So you’ll know if I don’t see you Christmas, Referendum in shape for public use. That I’ll be out on my Ass in the snow!” Grace & I work every evening also in studying the Diary 46, 1937 -31st- Bibliograph of Alaska lists of books, etc. and fixing December 31- Better weather – everybody getting ready for proximate values of same for sale in case an offer January 2, 1938 further holiday pleasures. shall be received for the purchase of my Alaska -January 1, 1938- library. I have concluded to attend the Rep. Mass At home all day in library – studying John Bremner meeting next Saturday – 15th. & his trip up the Copper river, in 1884 & down the -9- Tanana – with Lieut. Henry T. Allen in 1885. It is Grace and I worked all day in library adding prices an interesting and romantic study. Our friends to books etc. in my library list in Bibliography – to Willman Holbrook’s open house and specially be ready to dispose of same to buyer of whole asked us over with other neighbors – we went & library – not singly – but in gross. enjoyed the party & the egg-nog! Diary 46, 1938 -10- -2- January 10-11 Much interest in my 10 page study of Objections to Sunday in the library as usual. Dimond Referendum to vote on abolishing Terry. Diary 46, 1938 -Jany 3rd- Senate. Frank Foster, Grover Winn, Faulkner & January 3 Sent copy of my objections to the repeal of the other lawyers examining it with regard to its careful Organic Act provisions establishing the Territorial comparison with constitutional questions involved. as advocated by Joe Green. Dimond & other “New The Democratic office holders are excited and will Deal” politicians to the Ketchikan Chronicle for oppose my ideas & support Dimonds Referendum. publication. It is my intention to conduct as strong -11th - a campaign against their scheme as I can, for it is Working in library in the evening with Grace on my a bad suggestion, and ought to be defeated in the books – fixing prices & in the office during day time interest of good government in Alaska. It is as usual. Also in correcting & arranging title to my Gave Frank Foster a copy of my objections to objections to the Dimond Referendum. repeal of Territorial Senate to read – and return! Diary 46, 1938 -12th – Diary 46, 1938 -4th – January 12-15 In the office as usual. Have prepared title page to January 4-5 Same as usual in the office. my Appeal to the Voters of Alaska in opposition to Finished up my correspondence. Dimonds Act for a Referendum to abolish the Gave stenographer Ms. of Bremner’s story to the Territorial Senate. the Yukon river: Mifs Bowden. -13th -14th – Gave Frank Foster copy of my statement objecting Same in office. Getting ready for Republican to the repeal of the Ter. Senate, & he intends to Territorial Convention. I am asked to become the take the matter up with the Al. White Republican Chairman of the Platform Committee – and I am crowd & get them to take my view in the doing what I can to pacify the warring factions - & Convention or Mass Meeting on Jany. 15th. succeeding in par at least! It now begins to look -5- like we can have a peaceful convention. -15th - was peaceful & conducted in a friendly orderly

The Territorial Republican Convention manner. Diary 46, 1938 January 15th 1938 Diary 46, 1938 15 January 15 met this morning in the Union Hall – the old Moose January 15-16 I was very much pleased today to get get a letter Hall. Al. White and his friends are in charge, but from the Washington Laro[?] book Company, a he, especially, has said to me that there could be subsidiary of the West Publishing Company, of St. an attempt to have order and peace in the Paul Minn. acknowledging the receipt of my Ms. proceedings, and that they expected it to be free of “The Old Yukon Trails,” saying “We are frankly quarreling and personalities which characterized interested in your manuscript and its possibilities.” the Republican convention at Douglas of two years Of course I am pleased & will accept their offer to ago. I have been requested to become the publish the Ms. chairman of the Committee on Platform & had a -16th fair committee with me. We prepared a Platform [clipping] after carefully reading the platforms of the 34 In Attendance Democrats, Republican of 2 years ago & the Union As Republicans Labor Party of this year. My deepest Open Convention Diary 46, 1938 15 {Press. 15th} January 15 interest in the platform was to have a plank in With a picture of C.I.O’s John L. Lewis hanging opposition to the Dimond Referendum, an Act of on the wall where Abraham Lincoln’s homely Congress introduced by Dimond – H.R. 6651 features might have been expected, Al White’s introduced on July 20, 1937, forcing the people of “Territorial Republican Convention” convened at Alaska to vote on “whether a one house 10”30 this morning in Labor Union Hall. Legislature shall be provided for the Territory of Thirty-four persons, who were required to Alaska,” etc. I have already prepared my views in register in order to gain admittance, were in writing in opposition to the abolishment of the attendance. Despite its “territorial” title, attendance Alaska Territorial Senate as it was created by the was limited to Juneau and Douglas residents. Organic Act of Aug. 24th 1912, which I drew - & I Among these were organization officials, reporters, wanted Republican Territorial Convention to recently-filed candidates and casual observers. No declare its opposition – so I introduced a plank in representation other than local was observed, the Platform although messages from Cordova, Nome, Tenakee Diary 46, 1938 15 and Ketchikan were read. January 15 to secure the result. The Committee readily The report of the Central Committee was approved that plank in our platform – we finished a accepted by the convention, thereby accepting tentative Platform & reported. The convention L.W. Kilburn, as suggested in the report, as adopted the Platform with some amendments, and chairman of the convention. Kilburn is mayor of the plank I was interested – after objections to Douglas ad precinct committeeman for the party. members of the Labor Union had be heard in A rough draft of the party platform was to be opposition. I took the burden of defending my presented to the convention late this afternoon for position in opposition to the Dimond Referendum & consideration. spoke probably 20 minutes. There was no speech Rev. O.L. Kendall, pastor of the Metropolitan in opposition, the Convention endorsed & adopted Methodist Church, opened the convention with an the plank unanimously. I did not attend the night invocation. session which began at 730 So far the Convention Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Diary 46, 1938 16 as being un-American and contrary to a January 16 [clipping continued] Democratic form of government. Definitely opposing a unicameral, or one-house Fisheries, Fur and Game legislature, and proposing a referendum on liquor The Territorial Legislature should have power to “to determine whether the people in Alaska favor legislate on the fisheries, fur and game animals of prohibition, Territorial control and Territorial liquor Alaska, and all needful subjects of legislation. stores, or the present local option laws,” the Statehood Republican Territorial Convention completed its We pledge the candidate of the Republican Party platform Saturday night and adjourned without for Delegate to Congress to advocate and work endorsing any candidates. Report was prevalent uncessingly for statehood for Alaska, and our today that Judge Clegg of Fairbanks was being members of the Legislature to adopt, all proper considered by all G.O.P. factions as the probable measures in aid thereof. Republican candidate for Delegate to Congress. Bonding the Territory The platform as adopted by the convention We express our unqualified opposition to any follows: proposal to bond the Territory of Alaska, feeling We advocate the return of our people to the that inasmuch as the present administration has principles of government established in the already saddled upon the nation an immense Constitution of the United States and in the indebtedness which the taxpayers must pay, of Republican Party as founded by Abraham Lincoln. which indebtedness the proportionate share of this We re-affirm our confidence in the Supreme Court Territory is more than twenty millions of dollars, of the United States as our greatest bulwark of any further burden, through bonding or otherwise, freedom and insist that it shall remain unhampered is oppressive and unnecessary. by political dictation. Mineral Leases We condemn the administration of Franklin D. We condemn the recommendation of the Roosevelt and of the New Deal as subversive of Secretary of the Interior to the effect that mineral constitutional principles, opposed to the liberties of lands of Alaska be withdrawn from entry and our citizens, and contrary to all those things which disposal and placed under a leasing system similar have guaranteed the freedom of our people and to that adopted with regard to coal and oil lands in promoted the greatness of our nation. the Territory. We condemn the administration of the affairs of Taxation the Territory of Alaska by the Democratic We pledge our legislators to vote for the repeal Legislature and officials, as inefficient and of the 3 percent gross tax on gold and other extravagant. precious minerals and to vote for the enactment of Territorial Government a measure which will place the burden of taxation We again recommend the establishment of a full on profits derived from operation. territorial form of government in Alaska. None are Hospitals so well qualified to determine policies of We advocate the establishment of marine government and direct it as people who live in the hospitals for the treatment of maritime workers Territory. They are familiar with conditions and wherever necessary in the Territory, and we further they are vitally interested in good government and advocate a sufficient number of hospitals in the territorial growth. Territory for the treatment of tuberculosis and other Unicameral Legislature communicable diseases. We oppose a unicameral, or one house Liquor legislature, as proposed in the Dimond referendum, We condemn the present liquor situation in Alaska and propose a referendum on the liquor There were several other planks to be question in the Territory to determine whether the considered by the convention. Among them were people who are voters in Alaska favor prohibition, proposals made by Chris Hennings, Chairman of Territorial control and Territorial liquor stores, or the Juneau Central Labor Committee. He the present local option laws. advocated the adoption of a unicameral legislature Workmen’s Compensation Law plan, just opposite to the plank brought in by the We advocate a change in the workmen’s platform committee. He said labor asked a six- compensation law of Al- hour law in the mining industry, change in the Diary 46, 1938 16 workmen’s compensation law to make it January 16 [clipping continued] compulsory; urged a bureau of mining inspection aska whereby silicosis, or miner’s consumption, be and repeal of the criminal syndicalism law. made a compensable injury. Marked by the absence of discord which Community Property disrupted the Douglas convention two years ago, We advocate the passage of a workable the convention this afternoon accepted the report community property law. of the credentials committee which seated the Women’s Home following delegates, all from Juneau unless We advocate the establishment of a home for otherwise noted: pioneer women. Delegates Federal Appointments Frank Foster, E.E. Engstrom, Douglas; Ronald We advocate the appointment of bona fide Lister, Cyril Zuboff, Albert White, L.W. Kilburn, Alaskans for all offices thoughout the Territory. Douglas, Henry Benson, John Holler, Mrs. C.W. Schools Wade, Margaret E. White, John Barrett, Royal We pledge our legislators to support and develop Shepard, Cash Cole, Grover C. Winn, James E. our public schools for the benefit of Alaskan Lyman, H.B. LeFevre, Mrs. Cyril Zuboff, Mrs. children and we oppose the centralization of William Wanamaker, Albert Brown, Douglas; M.S. authority over school districts, and believe that the Leath, C.J. Simmons, Thomas E. Hall, Mrs. Bessie Commissioner of Education should be elected by Miller, William Kunz, Ann M. Robertson, E.E. the people. Robertson, Jack Wilson, James Wickersham, Labor Mildred Hermann, Ed Garnick, Marvin Johnson, We advocate the passage of a law similar to that N.C. White, W.C. Dobbins, S.W. Jekill, Fred Lefton, of the State of Washington to prohibit the and D. Maniotis. It was announced that E.A. employment of non-residents in the fisheries of Rasmuson, National Committeeman, was Alaska. represented by proxy held by Albert White. Mine Inspection While awaiting report of the platform committee, We favor the establishment of an adequate mine the convention named a National Advisory inspection service thoughout the Territory, and the Committee with Howard Stabler as chairman and election by the people of the officials of that including Judge Wickersham and Henry Benson. It service. also voted to delegate the Central committee and Labor Relations Act three members to be appointed to see that a full We favor the enactment of a labor relations act in ticket is in the field by the time the filings close Alaska. February 1. * * * The convention was scheduled to continue in session this evening, completing its platform and Labor for Unicameral probably suggesting or endorsing candidates for Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 various offices. Judge Wickersham Takes Kilburn Chairman Opposite Views on L.W. Kilburn, Mayor of Douglas, was elected Legislature permanent chairman of the convention at its Before a large audience that jammed Union Hall opening session this morning without a dissenting last night at the mass meeting of the Juneau Labor vote, the recommendations of the Central Party, Senator Henry Roden took the Speaker’s committee being adopted in full. Henry Benson stand in a blistering condemnation of the bicameral was [end] legislature and offered the proposition of a unicameral legislature as cure. The Juneau Republican Press will not, apparently, “The single house, composed of 24 or less support the Republican platform or party ticket. Do members, would be more responsive to the public,” not know what is the matter! Roden said. Diary 46, 1938 -17th – “Further,” he continued, “it will eliminate ‘buck January 17-18 I am now preparing to accept the offer of the passing’ between two houses. The House passes Washington Law Book Co. of Washington, D.C. a a bill, perhaps unanimously, but the subsidiary of the West Publishing Co. of St. Paul, Representatives will turn around and beg the Minn. to publish my Ms. entitled “Old Yukon Trails,” Senators in private to defeat that legislation which etc. They do not like my title & propose a change, the House has just passed! which I am quite willing to accept. “Why is that done? Simply because a House full -18th - of Representatives have their respective ears to The Juneau Labor Union has this day invited me to the ground for the next election, and don’t believe speak before that body at the Union Hall, tomorrow that this sore of thing doesn’t go on. It does, and night – I consented to do so. Grace is helping me plenty of it, too!” to prepare my illustrations etc. to forward to the On the Spot Wash. Law Book Co. for publication in my Ms. “In the unicameral Legislature,” Roden Diary 46, 1938 -19th - continued, “each member knows his vote will January 19 Grace & I got all my illustrations for my book – “Old count. He is on the spot and must vote with the Yukon Trails,” etc. ready according to the request view in mind that what he votes for or against will of the Washington Book Co. – West Pub. Co. show up in the final analysis and cannot be subsidiary & sent them off today by mail to Mr. J.T. covered by alibi that his actions had been over- O’Neill, Sec. & agent. care of West Pub. Co. St. ruled by the Senate. Paul. He asked for certain data additional which I “It stands now, with the bicameral system, that a sent him – all asked for, & tat matter is closed as single Senator in the Senate, can defeat the entire far as I can go it until I hear from him or the Co. representation of a whole Division, four further. Representatives and one Senator, and can defeat Also I made the opening address tonight to a mass even a unanimous vote of the House. meeting called by the Labor Union’s political “Take for example should one Senator be ill. organization – hall crowded – subject Repeal of the That leaves seven active. Reason further that the Alaska Territorial Senate organic Law. bill in question requires a two-thirds vote for Diary 46, 1938 19 passage. One man exercises his right of privilege January 19 [clipping] and refuses to vote. Then one dissenting vote HENRY RODEN against the other five can defeat the whole thing. FLAYS DOUBLE Is that representative government?” HOUSE SYSTEM Find It Pays “Four out of six provinces in Canada now have “That is the full form of National, Territorial and one house Legislatures. They have found it pays. State Legislative government” Wickersham said. “Not only would the one house Legislature cut “It is the full American form of government! down expenses, but it would speed up legislation “It has occurred to a few unwise members of the and eliminate medicine balling. If a bill needs a lower House of the Alaska Legislature to destroy comma or a semi-colon in the Senate’s eyes, it such a form of government in Alaska. Those goes back to the House for amendment, and the stated themselves in favor of ‘full Territorial form of whole procedure saws back and forth while the government.’ poor man lobbyist finds himself forced to return “The unicameral Legislature is not full Territorial home before ultimate consideration of the bill for form of government! passage. He can’t see lengthy fights through. A Too Provincial big corporation lobbyist finds it easy. “A single body, with power to override the “A single house – a unicameral Legislature,” Governors’ veto would be singularly over-powerful. Roden finished, “is Alaska’s answer to a quest for A body of 24 men, with 16 votes could change the responsive legislative action.” whole body of the Territorial government in Alaska Wickersham Opposes in one day! Judge James Wickersham, former Delegate from “Such a legislature might run wild in raising Alaska to Congress, presented his appeal to the taxes, in making excessive appropriations, or in voting public of the Territory, at the mass meeting, passing revolutionary laws, without consulting the urging them not to accept the unicameral people, for there would be no check on their legislature, but to preserve the bicameral system. unlimited powers. “In 1935,” said Judge Wickersham, “the “Good laws, after American forms and principles Territorial House of Representatives voted will not loose virility by brief delay and the unanimously in favor of a single House Legislature protection by reasonable blocks, bars, and barriers memorial, but a vote of six to two in the Senate to their passage. defeated the measure. “It is a bad time now-it will be dangerous to the “Last summer, in Washington, Delegate Dimond continued existence of our full Territorial form of introduced a House Bill to provide for a referendum government to allow unthinking men to destroy it. in Alaska as to whether or not the Territory desires 20 a one-house legislature. [clipping] “Delegate Dimond,” Wickersham said, “knows Thursday, January 20 that a unicameral legislature of 24 members, as Wickersham And proposed, will cost exactly as much as, and no Roden Heard more than two houses, one of 16 members and the By 300 In Hall other of 8. He knows there will be no saving of {Juneau, Press} expense in abolishment of the Senate as stated in “Do not give up the constitutional provisions that the Dimond Referendum law.” insure your Territorial form of government!” was the Diary 46, 1938 19 warning which Judge James Wickersham voiced January 19-20 [clipping continued] before an estimated audience of 300 persons in Judge Wickersham pointed to the fact that 150 the Union Labor Hall. years ago, the United States set out with a Sponsored by the Alaska Labor Party, the mass President, a Senate, and a House of meeting was held to hear Judge Wickersham and Representatives. Senator Henry Roden discuss the merits and Full Form of Government disadvantages of the “one house” legislature, Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 which question will come before the voters of Wickersham warned. Alaska in the Territorial elections in September. Judge Wickersham, who was introduced by [clipping] Chairman E.R. Schultz, stressed his belief in ROADS, TRAILS, continuance of the present “two house” legislature. AIR SERVICE, He pointed our that the bicameral legislative FISH STRESSED system was founded by the writers of the United Regional Planning Forms States Constitution and that so long as the Backbone of Program- Congress is divided, unwise legislation will be NO Forced Development passed with difficulty, because the representatives FISHERIES PROTECTION and senators will consider seriously any problem INCLUDES JAP INVASION before voting lightly upon it when they know that Simplification of Territor- the other house may reject the problem if it is not ial Taxation System wise or beneficial. Recommended Senator Roden declared that a bicameral WASHINGTON, Jan. 20.-President Roosevelt legislature is too slow, too expensive, does not give today transmitted to Congress his program for a the rank and file of voters a chance to control their long range development of Alaska. Regional representatives and offers too much opportunity for planning formed the backbone of the plan which large interests to influence a small group of men. was drafted by the National Resources Committee “Last year, when the Territorial legislature was in at the request of Congress. session, those representatives would vote The recommendations included: unanimously for a bill -16 to 0- and then rush into Simplification of the Territorial government’s the Senate chambers and say, ‘Kill that bill we just taxation systems; constructed of roads and trials; passed!’” Senator Roden declared. “They knew expansion of the air service; protection of salmon that they could pass some bill which their fisheries and improvement of labor conditions. constituents favored and then blame it on the The committee held that regional planning was Senate when the bill failed to become a law! They essential to orderly development because it would knew they could hide behind the skirts of the Old be a “long time problem” and the “plan would have Lady of the Senate for protection.” to change suit changing social conditions.” Senator Roden did not explain why the Senate Against Forced Development offered such protection for the representatives. The committee report added that studies Diary 46, 1938 20 disclosed that national interest did not demand January 20 [clipping continued] forced development of Alaska nor was there Judge Wickersham stressed the danger in the imperative need for costly development programs. fact that the small group of men, which Roden said It said: would take the place of the present two-house “There is no pressure of population or lack of raw system, would be able to rule the entire Territory, materials or trade in the United States that demand making it comparatively simple for an interested exceptional measures.” group to control the destiny of all Alaska. At See No Agricultural present, the governor may veto a bill passed by The Committee also discounted the future of both houses, and it is doubtful whether the Alaska as an agricultural country, at least until Legislature will override the veto, but given a single more industries are developed. In the latter house under the control of unscrupulous powers, category the committee saw possibilities for pulp the governor’s veto power would be nil, and paper plants but did not recommend building of railroads or fist class highways “for the to the St. Paul agent to send it back to me!! anticipated future need prior to formulation of general plans for development of the Territory.” Diary 46, 1938 -22- In calling for preservation of the salmon fisheries January 22-25 I am just in possession of a copy of The and protection of “peculiar and important American Congressional Digest, published in Washington, interests therein,” the committee took notice of the D.C. by A.G. Robinson which contains much current dispute between Japan and the United interesting data on the subject of the Unicameral States over fishing rights in Bristol Bay. Legislature. Gave title & address to Roden & I will The committee recommends re-examination of also send for a copy. Nothing new. the “whole pattern of Territorial government” with a -23rd – view to elimination of “unfortunate results of the Sunday at home. Stormy – nothing except Grace geographic fact that Alaska is so distant from the & I are going over my books fixing selling prices. seat of government.” -24th –

Same as yesterday – nothing new. HEINTZLEMAN, GORDON -25th - ON ALASKA COMMITTEE Same as usual in the office. The report submitted by the President today is Diary 46, 1938 -26th – the result of work done by the Federal-Alaska January 26-28 committee recently in Portland on which the Working in the office every day as usual & at home Territory was represented by Regional Forester B. in the library every night fixing prices on my Alaska Frank Heint- books with Grace. Also getting my Ms. against the Dimond Referendum ready for publication by the Diary 46, 1938 20 Juneau Press & the Ketchikan Chronicle! January 20-21 [clipping continued] -27th – zleman, of the Alaska Planning Commission, and Same as yesterday – in the office and in the library Paul Gordon, in charge of Alaska affairs in the at home with Grace in fixing prices on my Alaska Division of the Territories and Island Possessions books. of the Interior Department. After this committee -28th - had drawn up the plan, it was transmitted to the Same as usual in office: Finished my attack on National Resources Committee which in turn Dimond Referendum & gave it to the Juneau Press submitted it to the President. The plan was drawn today for publication. up after a resolution was passed in Congress last Diary 46, 1938 -29th – year asking the President to offer a plan for Alaska January 29-30 development. Sunday: Grace & I spent the day in going through -Jany 21st - my Alaskana & pricing my books on hand, so that if Here is the outline of what Alaska must expect – a purchaser can be had the prices can be quickly not a mere abolishment of the Territorial Senate – added & a purchaser advised of the total amount we want for all we have on hand in the library. but a new Territorial Bureaucratic Government th instead. -30 - I finished gathering the data the Washington Book Same as usual in the office, & at the library in the Co. asked for and sent it on to their agent at St. evening. Grace & the Hawke’s are greatly excited Paul Minn. on last nights boat. In doing so, by a at the prospect of selling the mines located by mistake I included my private copy of the Hawkes, Louis Dyrdahl & wife & Capt Folstad & Bibliography, containing my prices for the sale of son, on Kuiu island, which D.B. Stewart & his my library of Alaska Historical books & had to write associate Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Diary 46, 1938 30 piano. January 30-31 Roahm, declared are valuable. Jack Hawkes will -3rd- leave here on Tuesdays boat to go to New York to Same as usual in the office & library meet prospective purchasers of the mines – -4th – Dyrdahl is to advance the expenses of the journey, Writing letter to British Columbia officials in regard on the advice of Stewart & Roahm. Grace has to the Estate of John A. Sargent, insane, confirmed been given a 2% interest by the Hawkes in in Essondale, B.C. Provincial Mental Hospital: consideration of a years rent of their apartment in Inspector of Municipalities, Victoria, B.C. asking our house & other considerations - & she is equally what we can do with Sargent – who has a as excited as Mrs. Hawkes. homestead on Public Lands of the United States, -31st - near Juneau. Jack Hawkes left on todays boat for New York as -5th - indicated in yesterdays writing. Writing on Same as usual in the office & library. Nothing new Cordilleran & Rocky Mt. Ms. about long paystreak to report. from Cape Horn to Point Barrow!! Diary 46, 1938 -6th – Diary 46, 1938 -February 1.- February 6-8 Sunday – worked at home in the Library – a bad February 1-2 Same as yesterday in office & library. Am Taku wind blowing. preparing a “talk” before the Pioneers meeting, -7th – including the Auxiliary or Womens branch of the In the office – when the wind and zero weather Pioneers, for tonight – also invited to Reception to permits. Bishop Crimont (Catholic) to be held at their Parish -8th - Hall. A bad taku wind blowing! Attended the Received a very pleasant letter from Mrs. J.T. meeting of the Alaska Pioneer’s Lodge & made a O’Neill, Treasurer of the Washington Law Book Co. short talk on Geography & History of Alaska, with Washington, D.C. from their offices with West Pub. special reference to H.W. Franklin, an early Juneau Co. St. Paul, Minn. confirming assurance of the businessman who built the “Franklin Hotel,” and publication of my “Ms. Old Yukon Trails,” etc. – after whom Franklin Street in Juneau was named. also a very kind letter from Mr. Mercer West Pub. Feb. 2. Co. along same lines & returning my Am. Express Recd from A.W. Winden, Tacoma with $500. on Co. check – money act. rents of ranch for 1937. Diary 46, 1938 8 Diary 46, 1938 2 February 8-10 order, to prepay the returns to me of the Ms. in February 2-5 Pioneers Hear case it was not accepted for publication with Judge Wickersham assurance that it would be published soon – as Speak on History soon as the “machinery” was set in motion etc. Judge James Wickersham, Alaskan historian Also fine letters from Darrell, who wrote from San and scholar, last evening addressed the Order of Francisco on his return from Mexico, - dated Jany Pioneers and the Pioneers’ Auxiliary on the history 31st. He also sent me checks for interest on the and geography of Alaska. The talk proved bonds his mother willed to him. interesting, for the speaker, during his years of -9th – experience as judge for the traveling court of the Same as usual in the office, & library second division, had ample opportunity to view the Working on matter of gold mining in the Yukon countours of Alaska first hand. -10- Following the talk, there was community singing, Wrote letter to O’Neill acknowledging receipt of his with Wesley Barrett accompanying the group at the letter about publication of “Old Yukon Trails” – also to Darrell. supporting my confirmation for Judge in contest, to Same as usual in the office & library. show him the power behind me in that matter – etc. Diary 46, 1938 -11th – Diary 46, 1938 -15- February 11-12 Wrote another letter to Darrell in answer to his nice February 15-17 The Taku windstorm which has been constant for a long description of his trip by automobile to Mexico. month have now abated. As usual in my office & -12- library. Grace is a great assistant and aid in Lincoln’s Birthday! reminds me that I lived in arranging my books – for sale if I get an offer – Springfield, Illinois, from May, 1877 to May 1883 – fixing the prices to be used therein! 6 years! and knew all the old members of the Bar -16th – that had known Lincoln = Hay, Greene, Hirudon, Same as usual in the office & library. Palmer, Logan, etc. passed his home almost every Working on study of production & history of gold in day – saw Mrs. Lincoln & her son Robert, as they the 40 mile, Birch & Minook creeks. visited the store of C.M. Smith who was married to -17th - Mr. Lincolns sister etc. & lived in the Lincoln Same as yesterday, Sending out copies of my atmosphere – for 6 yrs. Address against the Dimond Referendum on Diary 46, 1938 -Feb. 12, continued- abolishing the Territorial Senate – to Darrell & February 12-13 Received 200 copies of my “Appeal” to the people friends in interior Alaska of Alaska, to vote against the Dimond Referendum Diary 46, 1938 -18th – to abolish the Territorial Senate – which I will send February 18-19 Same as usual – a Taku wind & snow storm – Felix out to prevent the mutilation of the Organic Act of Gray, U.S. Commissioner, today gave me a Aug. 24, 1912, which I drew and worked through number of copies of the old Alaska Mining Record, Congress – I fear it may pass, but I will do what I 1895, also copies of the Juneau City Mining can to prevent that step. Record, 1891-4, for my Library. They are -13th - duplicates, probably from the old John G. Heid The Republican meeting held last night to collection – but very interesting & valuable, for their commemorate the birthday of Abraham Lincoln, Juneau & Territorial items. was a success. I did not attend for it was called to -19th - permit the candidates of the party to be seen and Same as usual in the office – I did not attend Bar heard – Stabler made a strong speech against the Assoc. today, Case vs Charles Waynor for Assault Dimond plan to destroy the Territorial Senate. etc. brought out some interesting facts. Diary 46, 1938 -14th - Diary 46, 1938 -20th – February 14 Valentines day – as usual in the office. I am February 20-21 Sunday – stormy, in the library all day with Grace distributing copies of my address against the fixing prices on my Alaska Historical Library – Dimond plan to abolish the Territorial Senate – Al interesting. White, the Republican candidate for Delegate -21st- called and I gave him a bundle of 50 of my address I have a dozen copies of different issues of the old for distribution. It seems as if it will be the principal Alaska Times – fall of 1869 – valuable & plank in the Republican platform & the most interesting, also an original copy given to me by important one at that. James Griffith Stevens (who married the daughter I sent Mr. J.T. O’Neill, who has the project of of Allen Francis, U.S. Counsel Genl from printing my Ms. “Old Yukon Trails” photographic Springfield, Illinois to Victoria, B.C.) Am having copies of letters from President Theodore George Simpson, Bookbinder, bind them. He tells Roosevelt, Atty. Genl Knox & Judge Day, me that Alaska books are greatly in demand – Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 prices high & he sells all he can secure at such New Deal. high prices! Diary 46, 1938 -22- Diary 46, 1938 -March 1st 1938.- February 22 In the office as usual – Received a letter form J.T. March 1-2 Working in the office as usual. Sent Summons etc. O’Neill, with two copies of Contract for Publication to U.S. Marshal, Seattle, for service in Salazar v of what he calls “Judge Wickersham’s Old Yukon,” Salazar. Letter to R.L. Lewis, 410 Mills Bldg. S.F. which he suggests as the title to my Ms. “Old asking for data in regard to Howard Franklin, who Yukon Trails.” I have signed the contracts & will discovered gold at Forty Mile. return him the copy on first boat. I am not quite -2nd - satisfied, yet, with the title, but maybe it will go The Tuberculosis Assoc. for Alaska made me the better than I think! He asks for my reaction! It Chairman of the sale of Seals this last year, and seems egotistic to me, but it will be understood by my name was widely used in all their my Alaska friends, but what of the newcomers? correspondence for sales: the returns now show Wrote a good letter to Darrell & sent him copies of that we are some $400. or more ahead of last year new publication of my address! in receipts – which gives me much satisfaction! Diary 46, 1938 -23rd – Also I paid February 23-24 Same as usual in the office. Working on arranging Diary 46, 1938 2 & binding newspapers. March 2 the bill to the Juneau Daily Press - $1500 for -24th - printing the Appeal to the people of Alaska in Same as usual – my eyes, however are giving me opposition to the Dimond Referendum to abolish much trouble with failing sight, and I am obliged to the Territorial Senate. The Ketchikan Chronicle give them rest and refrain from too close work. printed the same appeal & sent me 500. copies for Have returned the contract to Mr. J.T. O’Neill, St. distribution – without charge- using my Press copy Paul, Minn. who represents the publisher – the to print from. I blame Henry Roden for causing Joe Washington Law Book Co. closely associated with Green to start the project to abolish the Senate, & the West Pub. Co. at St. Paul. I understand the the foreign unions organized by Roden for adopting printing will be done at the office – shop of the it. Henry is a German Socialist, and dislikes our West Co. at St. Paul. I made no objection to the American Constitutional form of Government - & title suggested for the book ought to be defeated this fall for Territorial Senator Diary 46, 1938 -25th – – but may not be, for he is foxy & treacherous! February 25-28 Have secured bindings for the newspapers in my Diary 46, 1938 -Mch 3rd- library from Simpkins – most of my papers – March 3-4 In the office as usual. newspapers, are in the University of Washington, -4- Seattle, and have long ago been bound. I will bind Taru, a Japanese boy student came in to see my the remnants here & so arrange them that the few Japanese books relating to the shipwreck of his unbound ones I Seattle can be attached when people on Unalaska Island more than a century occasion permits. ago – he is an artist, etc. but would not read the -26th – text of the old book! I am now preparing a map of In the office: Bar Assoc. lunch. Alaska showing the places where I held court, etc. -27- during the years 1900-1908, and the Old Trails I Sunday – in the library at home. traveled in doing – for use in my Ms. Old Yukon -28th - Trails – provided the publication will use it! Making out my Income Tax Act. nothing due the Diary 46, 1938 -5th – Diary 46, 1938 -11th – March 5-7 Beautiful spring weather. I am also beginning on March 11-12 Same in the office, & in home library my chapter relating to the Discovery of Gold on the W.M. McMullen, deputy marshal from McGrath, on Klondike by George Carmack & Kate! I will not the Kuskokwim river in the office. He stopped over leave “Kate” out of the picture for she & “Skookum one boat going west to go to Sitka, Pioneers Jim” were more romantic & useful figures than Home, to procure a release of Bob Harts rights to George! who was generally called “Siwash placer claims on Candle creek – near McGrath. I George” owning to his long residence with Kate drew the papers for him. -He failed to get Hart to and the Tagish Indians. sign and left papers wit me saying Hart would call -6th – & consult me later. Sunday: Working in the library on fixing prices on -12th- my books & papers. Bar Assoc. luncheon: Judge Alexander present – -7th - returned two days ago from Washington, where he Same in office as usual. had gone to secure reappointment as Dist. Judge Diary 46, 1938 -8th – for this Division – successful! March 8-9 Westward steamer in today. My friends Grant Diary 46, 1938 -13th – Murdock, Fairbanks & W.M. McMullen, McGrath, March 13-15 Sunday: Grace & I put the whole day in the home called library, sorting, arranging & marking my Alaska Received nice letter from Darrell S.F. Cal. & wrote material fixing prices on same, so as to leave a him a like one. carefully prepared price list – in the event that I can -9th - get a sale for the same, and that if I should pass Sent ONeill, West Pub. Co. a good map of Alaska over the last divide in death the list can be used by showing the boundaries of Divisions 1, 2, & 3 as Grace or my heirs in their use of the same. they were while I was judge in Div. 3, marked with -14th – Alaska court towns where I presided from 1900 to Same as usual in my office: also making notes on 1907, for my “Old Yukon Trails” the Discovery of gold in the Klondike – and other My old sourdough friend Bill Richardson visited me Yukon mines. for 3 hours, talking the places we knew in the Early -15th - Days. my income taxes are prepared to date Diary 46, 1938 -10th - As usual in the office. March 10 In the office as usual. This afternoon Chappell, Diary 46, 1938 -16th - who is attempting to organize the Alaska General March 16 Some days ago I wrote a letter to Rev. H.C.M. Insurance Company had a meeting in my office Grant, Carcross, Yukon Ter. asking for information with Wallace George, John W. Jones, A.E. Karnes about Kate Carmack, Skookum Jim & Tagish and The proposed organization Charlie. Recd. letter today saying: was talked over for two hours – finally adjourned “Charles Tagish, known as Tagish Charlie place of upon George’s suggestion that Chappell prepare a death – Carcross –age 40 years. Prior to death 3 Prospectus of the matter, with a statement of its years helpless from spinal injury – date of funeral probable business and profits – and then call service November 14, 1905.-buried by Bishop another meeting with 25 business men & another Bompass. “talk” for their use & judgment, etc. Skookum Jim (Mason) – Date of death July 11th Earle Jamison called – he is Mrs. Roma Faulkner’s 1916 age about 60 years – cause of death – brother & a newspaperman. stricture of bladder several months. Buried by Archdeacon T.H. Carchawe[?] Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Diary 46, 1938 16 is sending 125 first pages for me to Autograph for March 16 Kate Carmacks – Date of death March 29, 1920 – inclusion in “Old Yukon, Tales, Trails & Trials,” as Age about 63 years – Wife of George Carmack. they have now concluded to entitle my book – says Cause of death – Pneumonia following influenza – it will be previewed & issued about June 6th. 10 days, buried by Rev. A. Grassett Smith, M.D.” (Letter from Darrell also) ONeill also approved my He informs me that this information “has been map of Alaska for the first pages – my own picture taken from from our Parish Registers” – and that to be used as frontispiece of Mt. McKinley to be he has referred my letter for further information sued for that purpose. Have gathered reports of about these three romantic figures who were so Territorial & Federal Reports in the Capital building prominent in the discovery of the Klondike gold in to bring that list down to date. 1896, to Mr. Mathew Watson – of Carcross. I send Diary 46, 1938 -23rd- Rev. Grant a copy of my Bibliography of Alaskan March 23-24 Received a letter from Bunnell, of the University of Literature, complimentary!! Alaska asking me to renew our original plan of Diary 46, 1938 -17th – Alaska History Research, with my library as the March 17-18 At the request of Chappell, who is organizing the basis. I shall not renew that task with him he did General Insurance Co. of Alaska, I went over & not keep his pledge before, but refuses to perform talked to H.L. Faulkner, and suggested that in the his obligations & left me in an embarrassing organization of the Company a new set of official situation, so I will not give him further attention. would have to be elected or appointed & that some -24th - of them wanted him to take part as attorney or Writing on 125 blank sheets of white paper the other officer, & pointed out the probability that the words “In memory of Gold Rush days on the Company might be a success, etc. He said he Yukon. James Wickersham, Mch 26, 1938,” for would talk to Goldstein and Wallace & would inclusion in the “Old Yukon Trails.” consider the idea! Chappell was greatly pleased Diary 46, 1938 -25th – with my doing as he requested. March 25-26 Same as usual in the office. -18th- -26th - Same as usual in the office. Wrote an answer to Bunnells saying that some Diary 46, 1938 -19th – months ago he had made an arrangement with me, March 19-21 Attended lunch Bar Assoc: present Attorney for and published his plans in the Juneau Empire to the Labor Relation Board (U.S.A.) and a Mr. use my library in his – or rather my plan Rockwell, assistant. Diary 46, 1938 26 Present also, Senator O.D. Cochran, from Nome, March 26 to prepare and publish a history of Alaska – in who addressed the meeting. He denounced the conjunction with the University – that he would Dimond Referendum to abolish the Territorial furnish funds to be obtained from Eastern funds, Senate, & declared it ought be & probably would etc. but that as soon as he had secured an be defeated – in the 2nd Division at Nome. appropriation of $17,000. from the Rockefeller -20th – Foundation – with my assistance he assumed to Sunday – working on arranging & pricing my pass me & my library by & employ a group of New Alaska books. York & other writes & leave em out of the picture – -21st - that he had purposely forgotten to keep his pledges Same in the office as usual. with me – that I had now made other arrangements Diary 46, 1938 -22nd - with people who would not forget – that I am no March 22 SS. Mail in form south this morning. Letter from longer interested in his plans etc. Am sending J.T. O’Neill, Mgr. West Pub. Co. St. Paul – says he copies of his letters & mine in answer to Dr. Diary 46, 1938 26 possibilities of the newly-acquainted land. March 26 [pamphlet advertising Wickersham’s book “Old Mrs. John McCormick, president of the American Yukon.” – original purchase price was $4.00] Legion Auxiliary, also participated in the schools’ Seward Day pro- Diary 46, 1938 26 Diary 46, 1938 30 March 26 Stevens, the agent of the Rockefeller Foundation – March 30 [clipping continued] to whom he – Bunnell – made similar pledges gram, presenting prizes to the winners of the which he also forgot when he had the money safely Auxiliary’s essay contest. in his hands, for his information. Prize winners in the high school on the subject, Also sent copies of both letters to Darrell. I have “What Constitutes National Defense for America?” not told Darrell about the West Publishing Co.’s were Mitchell Danilloff, first, and Richard Aikens, publishing my Ms. “Old Yukon Tales, Trails and second. In the seventh and eighth grades, writing Trials.” Latest from West Pub. Co. is that the book on the subject, “Obligations of Citizenship,” Shirley will be printed early in June. Sent the Co. 125 Davis took first prize and Doris Cahill, second. copies of sheets – pages- today with my legend “In memory of Gold Rush Days on the Yukon,” signed [clipping] by myself – for front page of that many copies of Seward Day Is the book. Observed Here Diary 46, 1938 -27th – Seventy-one years ago today Secretary of State March 27-30 Sunday – as usual in library William H. Seward and Baron Edward deStoeckel -28th – signed the treaty transferring ownership of Alaska In office as usual. to the United States. -29th – Today, in commemoration of the event, Juneau Invited to address the High School classes banks, Territorial offices and Federal offices were tomorrow on “Seward Day” on the life and services closed, while Judge J. Wickersham spoke at a of Wm H Seward, by Mr. Dunham, for Mr. Phillips & special Seward Day program at the Juneau Grade accepted to fill an absent orators’ failure to be School. present! 20 minutes! Grace copied a long list of the officers & -30- members of the Alaska Pioneers from the Report [clipping] for this year and sent it to O’Neill, publisher for Seward Is Subject West Pub. Co. of my Old Yukon Tales, etc. on the Of Talk By Judge boat last night, to be used by them in sending out When William H. Seward negotiated the treaty advertising prospectus’s, - they asked for it, & got with Russia for the purchase of Alaska in 1867, it it. Anyway, I enjoyed talking to the children about was with a keen realization of the value of the Seward & his days – for 30 minutes, yesterday, 10 Territory and with great foresight that he set about minutes over my allowance! the task, Judge J. Wickersham pointed out today in Diary 46, 1938 -31- a Seward Day address before Juneau grade and March 31 [clipping] high school pupils. ● “Old Yukon,” written by Judge James A. Seward felt a sincere interest in Alaska and was Wickersham, was reviewed by Ruth Coffin, the much more deeply informed on the subject than author’s niece, at a recent meeting of the Alaska most men of his day, Judge Wickersham pointed Yukon Pioneers Friday evening in the Alaskan Hall, out. In 1869, he visited the Territory, making a Seattle. Former residents of Cordova, Valdez, speech at Sitka in which he pointed out the vast Seward, Anchorage and Kodiak were special Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 guests. Pictures of the Yukon River country and Diary 46, 1938 4 dancing followed the meeting. April 4-5 copy of Ogilvie’s Guide – and a request to locate the names of the Packers – Indians, carrying his Same as usual in the office. Ruth Coffin sent me a packs over the Dyea-Chilkoot in his first beautiful hand decorated book in her hand writing, appearance on the Yukon in the “Cache” containing many pages of the copies -5th - of my writing – also D.A. Noonans alleged poetry, Chappell, organizer of the Alaska General etc. with her loving compliments. A beautiful Insurance Co. scheme is just back from Ketchikan, writing of early day material – she is deeply with a good report of success there – he is an interested in the romance and tales of my pioneer untiring worker and feels greatly encouraged. He work as judge, Delegate to Congress, etc. I am got better support than he even expected! much pleased with its contents, and form and am City Election Day – I voted for Krause, for Mayor, writing her a letter of thanks. Grace is much Wallace George, John Krugness and Curly Bayer pleased with the book! for city council & Scott, for school Director. Diary 46, 1938 April 1, 1938 Diary 46, 1938 -6th – April 1-3 Same as usual in the office. April 6-9 Grace had a party of 25 ladies at our house – in 2nd honor of the supposed advent of a baby to Mrs. Dr. Same as usual – gave papers in the John Sargent Pyle formerly a teacher in the schools – cards, and Hd. case into the care of Frank Boyle for his a present of bassinette to the expectant mother – attention, - he will prepare Final Proofs. they had a jolly function!! -3rd- -7th – Sunday. Jack Hawks is back home – but did not Harry Lucas Elected Mayor: with the aid of a group succeed in connecting with capital in New York of radicals; Scott, for school director, Harri, John with which to open his mining claims on Kuiu Is. McCormick & Beistline, members of the Council. He is indebted to me for $5000 monthly rent for Catching up with my correspondence! more than a year –and now has no money – no -8th – job. and begs me to get him work so that he may Same in office as usual. buy -9th - Diary 46, 1938 3 Same as usual. Congress defeated the Presidents April 3-4 food for his family – helpless! The situation is bad: Govt. Reorganization bill!! Good!! Judge Alexander gets $10,000. a year – his wife Diary 46, 1938 -9th continued has a governmental income (I do not know April 9 I wrote a Review and an approval of “The Story of amount) for teaching music, under some bureau – Alaska,” by C.L. Andrews, published by him & his daughter Jane is employed in government printed by The Caxton Printers, Ltd. Caldwell, office as a clerk, at $250.00 per month - $3000. a Idaho, 1938, and recommended that it be year, - while I cannot get Hawkes a job of any kind introduced at Territorial expense into every public for any amount – to pay his rent or feed his family! school in Alaska as the Standard History of Alaska. Yet they call it a “New deal”!! As soon as I can review my Review I shall ask the -4th - Juneau papers to publish it, & will make an effort to Monday – working in library with Grace, fixing Get Gov. Troy to assist in its introduction as prices on Alaskan books etc. in the evenings – as suggested. It is really a good book – the first usual in the office. Sent Dr. Grant, Carcross, letter History of the Territory yet published!! and a Diary 46, 1938 -10th – valuable articles describing incidents in Alaska’s April 10-11 Sunday – at home all day. history and its natural resources. One of his first -11th - writings, a description of Muir Glacier, was printed Hustling around trying to get Jack Hawkes a job – in the National Geographic Magazine in 1905. saw the Governor, Forest Service & finally the new Other magazine articles have described the Mayor – Harry Lucas, who is a personal friend of Copper River region, agricultural possibilities, and Hawk’s. He promised to use his influence with the other resources of the Territory. He was for some City Council to get Jack on as a foreman in a new years a regular contributor to the Alaska Yukon city work. I have prepared a Review of Andrews Magazine ad the Washington Historical Quarterly. “The Story of Alaska,” – a good History! I am He prepared and published an interesting approving it strongly & suggesting that it be biography of Baranof, the builder of the Russian adopted as a school book in the Territorial American Company, and in 1922 published an Schools!! illustrated “Story of Sitka,” picturing the Russian- Diary 46, 1938 -12th - American capital of the Territory of Alaska. His April 12 Closing up correspondence: Wrote to Darrell; to latest publication, “The Story of Alaska,” just now Leroy Sullivan, Nome to send me a list of off the press, is the best history of the Territory to Republicans in the Nome divisions that we might – cover the entire period from the earliest discovery send them political material; to Paul P. Obrien clerk by the Russians to the present day. U.S. Court of Appeals, to send notice of decision in Mr. Andrews accompanied the Italian party of the Femmer v City of Juneau by Night Letter, to Duke of Abbruzzi on its successful ascent of Mt. St. Faulkner only! Letter of recommendation to Mayor Elias in 1897. He was Deputy Collector of and City Council, to appoint him City Wharfinger or Customs in Alaska for twelve years, serving in Assistant; Empire & Press both a copy of my Skagway for seven years during the great Klondike review of C.L. Andrews new book “The Story of Stampede. For two years he engaged in the work Alaska,” recommending it as a good History of of the Bureau of Education at Wainright, near point Alaska – for all public schools in the Territory. Barrow. He dug for gold at Nome and lived on the Diary 46, 1938 -13- Yukon River for two years more. He resided at April 13 [clipping] Sitka when studying the Russian language, ALASKA HISTORY translating its historic books and writing his “Story IS WRITTEN BY of Alaska.” In general, he has had a wide and C.L. ANDREWS varied experience in many other parts of Alaska Judge James Wickersham during his forty years acquaintance with the Praises “Story of Al- Territory, its people, and its resources. aska” in Review Few men have had a wider experience or longer “The story of Alaska,” by Clarence L. Andrews. residence here than this modest student of Alaska With an introduction by Edmond S. Meany. 303 history, and none has produced a better and more pages. The Caxton Printers Ltd., Caldwell, Idaho, accurate story of the Territory. His “Story of 1938. $4.00. Alaska” has been written from a wide personal Clarence L. Andrews, the author of “The Story of knowledge of the country, its problems, and Alaska,” was born in Ohio but has spent practically background; its text is supported and amplified by all of his life on the Pacific Coast. He reached fifty pages of well-arranged notes of authorities and early manhood in Oregon, began newspaper work references; his accurate knowledge of Russian in 1892. During his forty years of official and publications has enabled him to give the history of historical work in Alaska he compiled numerous Russian period from Alaska’s discovery in 1741 to Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 the date of its transfer to the United States in 1867 and its preservation within the Territory with unusual clearness and accuracy. This volume being filled with interesting and Diary 46, 1938 -18th – important descriptive pictures, is particularly well April 18-19 Femmer consulted me about leasing his wharf adapted to supplementary school reading and will ground sufficient to enable an aviation company to doubtless be for many years the most authoritative use part of it for poles & wires for receiving radio & book on the history of the Territory. It will be an establishment of a hangar for landing airplanes to invaluable aid to teachers and students alike as carry the mails & passengers to & from Juneau and well as a general source book of information for all Fairbanks. I have promised to prepare a contract interested in the life and development of this with them. Territory. It is an outstanding book and I -19th - recommend that it be adopted by the Territorial Working on Femmers airplane project. authorities as the standard book of Alaska history -Grace will write it for me on the typewriter! Politics and that it be placed in all schools of the Territorial will be active this election – primary – on Tuesday at public expense.- James Wickersham. next. Much opposition among Republicans against

Al. White – but Al. will be nominated - & that is I sent copy of Review to Darrell & Andrews & what he wants. advised the latter to send copy of his book Diary 46, 1938 -20th - Diary 46, 1938 13 April 20 Judge LeFevre advised me that the lawyers at the April 13-15 to Gov. Troy & Karnes, Com. of Education. th Bar Association will do something to aid in buying -14 15- my Alaska Library – Grace & I are at work every I sent copies of the Review of Andrew’s History to night on an orderly listing & fixing prices. She is Nome, Fairbanks Anchorage – &3 extra copies of working at it diligently and doing a fine job – she is the Review to Andrews himself. Grover Winn of a fine mathematician and of a very great help to Juneau School Board told me he read my review & me. I could not do it alone – she is a jewel! I had o would put copies of the History in the Juneau advise Judge LeFevre that my book would be schools. I will call and get Karnes, School Com. for ready by June 1, & to wait until it appears. he will Alaska interested if possible. It will be a pleasure keep the Bar Association quiet until that time – to help Andrews! before they take action!! Received a very fine letter from O’Neill, publisher Diary 46, 1938 -21st – of my Old Yukon Trails, promising every assistance April 21-22 in the early publications - & advertising! Chappell who has worked long and industriously to th th organize the Alaska General Ins. Co. with Juneau Diary 46, 1938 -16 -17 - as its headquarters, is becoming discouraged & April 16-17 I have received a letter from J.T. O’Neill, officer of talks of locating at Ketchikan, where he says there West Publishing Company St. Paul Minn. assuring is greater interest in such a project. Juneau is not me that my Ms. Old Yukon Trail, etc. will be ready enthusiastic. for delivery about the first of June, and a very -22nd - flattering approval of the book! It made me feel Grace is working rigorously in preparing a price list happy, and he declared it was going to be a of my Alaska library! I give all the assistance my success. However, I realize that it is not a love poor eyesight will enable me to give her. She is story – and will not rise to a “best seller.” quick – a good statistician – mathematician, has The local Igloo of Alaska Pioneers appointed a knowledge of library work & a good view of Alaska Committee instructed to consult with me about History. buying my Alaska books, etc. by the Legislature Diary 46, 1938 -23rd - Territory, the 24th of August of each year as April 23 In the office as usual. Judge LeFevre came in & “Wickersham Day,” suggested that I was to be discussed at the And, Further, that the other bar associations, meeting of the Juneau Bar Assoc. meeting – that it commercial, civic and fraternal organizations might be as well for me to not attend. I did not! and throughout the Territory be hereby requested to here’s what took place!! likewise petition the Alaska Territorial Legislature. {Daily Empire} Diary 46, 1938 23 Wickersham Day April 23-24 [clipping continued] Is Proposed by Unanimously adopted by the Juneau Bar Bar Association Association this 23rd day of April, 1938. Juneau Legal Profession H.B. LE FEVRE Urges Setting Aside Aug- Attest: ust 24 to Honor Judge M.E. MONAGLE, Setting aside of August 24 of each year as Secretary. “Wickersham Day” was urged by the Juneau Bar -24- Association in a resolution adopted at today’s [clipping] luncheon meeting of the group in Percy’s Café, “in ALASKA DAILY PRESS recognition of Judge Wickersham’s patriotic ‘Wickersham Day’ services to the Territory.” Move Started By The resolution follows: Bar Association Whereas, Judge Wickersham’s most signal To express the esteem in which Judge James achievement, among many, on behalf of the Wickersham, former Alaskan delegate to Territory was the enactment by the Congress of the Congress, is held by the citizens of the Territory, United States of the “Alaska Organic Act” which the Juneau Bar Association today passed a was approved by President William H. Taft on resolution calling for the designation of August 24, August 12, 1912; and Judge Wickersham’s birthday, as “Wickersham Whereas, the 24th of August, is also the birth Day”. date of Judge Wickersham, he having been born The resolution will be presented to the Territorial on August 24, 1857; and Legislature when it convenes next year. Judge Whereas, it is eminently befitting that Alaska Wickersham will be 81 years old on August 24 of express, during Judge Wickersham’s lifetime, its this year. appreciation of his services to the Territory, which Following is the resolution adopted by the include not only the drafting of the “Alaska Organic association today. Act” but also the compiling of the Alaska Law “WHEREAS, the Territory of Alaska is greatly Reports, the collecting of an exhaustive indebted to the honorable James Wickersham for bibliography upon Alaska, many years of labor as many years of devoted service to its welfare and Judge of the Alaska District Court and as Delegate interest; and to Congress from Alaska, and other deeds too “WHEREAS, Judge Wickersham’s most signal numerous to recite herein: achievement, among many on behalf of the Therefore, Be It Resolved by the Juneau Bar Territory was the enactment by the Congress of the Association that the 1939 Alaska Territorial United States of the “Alaska Organic Act” which Legislature be hereby petitioned, upon its was approved by President William H. Taft on convening, to create and designate, in recognition August 24, 1912; and of Judge Wickersham’s patriotic services to the “WHEREAS, the 24th of August is also the birth Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 date of Judge Wickersham, he having been born Diary 46, 1938 -25th – on August 24, 1857; and April 25-27 The case of Femmer v City of Juneau, et. al. will be “WHEREAS, it is eminently befitting that Alaska up for hearing in the U.S. Circuit of Appeals in San express, during Judge Wickersham’s lifetime, its Francisco, today – on briefs of agreement for appreciation of his services to the Territory, which hearing signed by both sides – it will, of course, be include not only the drafting of the “Alaska Organic referred to some member of the court to write an Act” but also the compiling of the Alaska Law opinion – in a month or so, when we will be notified Reports, the collecting of an exhaustive of the result. bibliography upon Alaska, many years of labor as -26th – Judge of the Alaska District Court and as Delegate Primary Election Day. I voted the straight to Congress from Alaska, and other deeds too Republican ticket. numerous to recite herein: -27th - “THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Working in office drawing contracts & deeds for JUNEAU BAR ASSOCIATION that the 1939 Femmer. Light vote at the primaries yesterday. ALASKA TERRITORIAL LEGISLATURE be hereby Diary 46, 1938 -28th - petitioned, upon its convening, to create and April 28 The votes in each party are so nearly equal designate, in recognition of Judge Wickersham’s between the respective party candidates that it patriotic services to the Territory, the 24th of August may require an official count to tell which of them of each year as WICKERSHAM DAY”, are nominated – though the Democratic party leads “And, further, that the other bar associations, quite fairly over the Republicans. The returns for commercial, civic and Fraternal Organizations the Democratic Representative in this divisions throughout the Territory be hereby requested to indicate that Roden is getting the Communistic- likewise petition the Alaska Territorial Legislature. Radical crowd - the C.I.O. Unions while Mrs. Unanimously adopted by the Juneau Bar Jeruse[?] has the organized vote – and they are Association this 23rd day of April, 1938. nearly neck & neck! The vote for Frank Foster, H.B. LeFevre Mrs. Hermann & Cash Cole is so nearly equal that President. it will require the final returns to decide! Diary 46, 1938 -28th continued- I am surprised at this move of the Bar Assoc. it April 28 Grace has rented my house on Franklin St. to a Mr. seems to be very premature. Johnstone, $4500 per month. The Wilcox’s leave it Diary 46, 1938 -24th - Saturday & the new tenant moves in the same day! April 24 Evidently my friends think I am too old; they remind Hawks and Dyrdahl, for their Kuiu Is. Mining Co. me of the story of the negro mother who was being must do their assessment work on or before July 1, examined by the census taker. He said “Why, for 32 mining claims. They have everything Maudy, you report two children, one aged 4 years arranged except the food supplies & I have made old and another 2 years, and say your husband an arrangement with Hawkes & Dyrdahl to furnish died 6 years ago, how do you explain that?” – “Dat $30000 to buy that food today. They are to allow – needs no splenation,” she replied “for I aint dead sell – me 2% of the entire group – undivided – one- yet, if my husband is.” fiftieth – for that money I will make a short receipt Anyway the Bar Associations act was friendly, and & agreement when I give them the money I appreciate their feeling of friendship another tomorrow. attempt to honor me; though it is just a little Diary 46, 1938 -29th – embarrassing!! April 29-30 Same as usual in the office. Have finished deeds & contract for Femmer in the Bolm matters – sale & escrow with Stanwood Whitely etc. Mifs Harland is start the line – which does not persuade me, for too assisting Grace today at home in finishing lists of many fliers get killed, so I stay on the ground! Russian books etc. in our price fixing of Alaskana! -4th – 30th As usual in the office. Judge Gore called – is I attended the Attorneys lunch, said nothing about making a round trip to Sitka. the Resolution of last Saturday – passed the cigars -5th - paid for my lunch & returned to my office. No one My old Nome friend & political supporter Captain mentioned the Resolution – it was apparently Axel Olsen, called –“full as a tick” forgotten. Diary 46, 1938 -5th continued- Diary 46, 1938 -May 1st, 1938. May 5-6 Wrote letter to Darrell, he & Jane had called on May 1 A quiet May day. Paid bills etc. writing up my day Dolores in Los Angeles – and I asked him to see book of accounts. Have agreed with Jack Hawkes, Daniel next time! for the Kuiu Island owners of Zinc mining claims to -6th - Furnish him – them the sum of $300.00 with which Grace & I work every evening until nearly midnight to buy food supplies to keep his – their – labors on examining my library & fixing prices on the supplied while doing the Annual assessment work various items. The Pioneer committee is taking an on their Kuiu mines on east shore of island during interest in the purchase by the Territory of the May & June $10000 per claim of work, labor, library – called & urged me to finish the sum which supplies etc. for which & other services the group I will accept for it. agrees to pay me by the transport of two one I received a formal letter from the Sec. of the hundredths -2%- 1/50 of its property interest – Juneau Bar Assoc. today sending me a copy of the Hawks has charge in the Resolution of April 23rd favoring Wickersham Day” Diary 46, 1938 1 Diary 46, 1938 -7th – May 1-3 absence of Dyrdahl & wife in California. D- will May 7-8 Delegate Dimond has introduced a bill in Congress return in two or three weeks & will go to the mines to give a pension to retiring Territorial District – in the meantime Jack will act as agent for the Judges in Alaska. We do not know its contents yet owners of the group – but assume it only applies to the present judges Hawks & family occupy the top story of my house – & is not retroactive! We had a warm time – 7th & Seward – agreeing to pay $5000 per month – politically – at the Bar Association today – between but are delinquent in payment for about 14 months two disagreeing New Dealers! which we all & I am helping them out with cash for the group enjoyed! owners & trusting him for rent until he gets the -8th - money, probably out of the mines, probably never!! Sunday. Jack Hawks went down with Grace to Jim -2nd – Yorks cabin and asked him to come to the house As usual in the office. this evening & talk to me about the Hawks -3rd- Diary 46, 1938 8 Some excitement about establishment May 8 mine on Kuiu island – he came and we had an Diary 46, 1938 3 hours talk. Hawks offered to take Jim in on the May 3-5 of regular & permanent airline mail between project as powder man, and give him (Jim) a one Juneau and Fairbanks today. Mayor Nerland percent undivided interest in the mining property to (Andrew’s son) and Bob. Sheldon, postmaster at go with the proposed party next Saturday on Dr. Fairbanks, are here (Juneau) to represent that end Dawes boat the “Prince of Wales” to begin annual of the line - & a group of Juneau & postoffice assessment work on the property. York said he officials will represent this end – the airplane will could not accept the offer, and gave as his excuse Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 that he has a job looking after some rented Diary 46, 1938 8 property belonging to a friend, etc. that he would May 8 That Hawks enthusiastic praise of the ore to us be obliged to employ a man to take his place, did yesterday was not genuine – it was untrue. York not have the money to pay such said he had never seen the Kuiu zinc ore in place, Diary 46, 1938 8 but from Richelson’s very positive statements, after May 8 advances & still a better excuse that he was too old his examination of the same for Hawks, declares it & feeble to work, - in short he would not go!! to be his judgment that it is worthless. He said he Hawks has Mrs. Wickersham worked up to a state asked about Hawks acquaintance with Richelson of enthusiasm about the matter – she asked thinking he would tell about Richelson’s Woodrow Atkinson, a fine young miner who works examination of the mine and his adverse report on at the A.J. Mine to come at a different hour & talk its value. York says he listened to Hawks to her and Hawks, and they presented the same statements to us this evening about the sale of said matter to him. It impressed him very well and he ore as it is extracted from the agreed to go with the party and work a month on Diary 46, 1938 8 the same consideration. I encouraged Woodrow May 8-9 assessment & development tunnels to smelting by saying that I intended to furnish the food companies with astonishment – that they are supplies. But, misleading & that it will be impossible to sell the Diary 46, 1938 8 ore at any such prices – or at all, he thinks. May 8 while Jim York was with us a few hours mentioned -9- – some question about the Kennecott Mines came The foregoing statements by York put me in an up & York pointedly asked Hawks if he (Hawks) embarrassing fix – Luckily I have made no doubt knew Richelson, the mining expert and engineer about the truth of Yorks statements, and also for the Kennecott? Hawks answered “Yes,” that luckily I have been careful not to encourage any Richelson was an acquaintance – but said no more one to work or invest in the project. I am so far in about him, - neither did Hawks, nor York. Today, with Grace, however, that I may be obliged to pay however, York came to my office & recalled the for a months supplies – say $15000 – which I will inquiry & Hawkes answer, and told me that some do to save her from embarrassment – but further I months ago Richelson & his wife were in Juneau, will not go without more evidence of the value of at the Hotel and asked him (York) to come & have the contents of the mine. dinner with them. When York reached the Diary 46, 1938 -10th - Diary 46, 1938 8 May 10 In the office as usual, working on contract & deed May 8 hotel he found Hawkes in the lobby talking to from Lockie McKinnon & wife for town lot to the Richelson, who introduced Hawks to York, after Juneau Empire Company - $2000. cash. Also which York went to dinner with Richelsons: Some contract for lease of Femmer wharf space to time later Richelson told York that soon after that Marine Airways Co. Hangar, antenna poles, wires dinner he went to Kuiu island at Hawks request – etc. or that of some of the interested parties, to I wrote the outline of a letter to Hawks cautioning examine the mine upon Hawks statement that it him about taking up too many zinc mining claims was a great body many acres. The he did examine on Kuiu island – instead of a few and developing it carefully as a mining engineer and found it to be them fully, instead of wasting money, labor & time a large kidney or lump of complex zinc ore, of on the many – took it home & read it to Grace. worthless character, and so informed Hawks, and She became angry at my suggestions gave it no further attention. Diary 46, 1938 10 Diary 46, 1938 14 May 10-11 so I promised to give her the $300. and let her go May 14 Jim. York says the zinc ore has no value. Hawks into the project without me or my objections. It says it has great value. Grace is enthusiastic in may be an experience with her efforts & she will be the Hawks theory. I fear York is right – Thats that! satisfied – which she will not be if I carry out my Delivered letter to Judge Le Fevre this morning in ideas. re Resolution of Bar Assoc: -11th - “Juneau May 14, 1938 I gave Grace the $300. this morning in the Kuiu Hon. H.B. Le Fevre, President Juneau Bar mines project and she is spending it with the Association. Juneau, Alaska. Hawks. I have begun a letter to Le Fevre, Dear Sir: I am in receipt of a communication from President of Bar Association acknowledging the you under date of May 6 accompanied by a copy of making of the Resolution of appreciation of my a Resolution adopted by members of the Bar services as Delegate, etc. That will close that Association, commending my work while Delegate matter agreeably. to Congress, in securing favorable action by that th Diary 46, 1938 -12 – body May 12-13 Worked on matters connected with the estate of Diary 46, 1938 14 John A. Sargent – citizenship etc. and a letter to May 14 in the passage of the Organic Act, creating our Rodney Hamilton, his nephew at Ketchikan. present constitutional form of Legislative Femmer contract with Marine Airways finished. government, and approved by the President on Recd. bundle of old Dyea Trail papers from Rev. August 24, 1912. H.C.M. Grant Carcross. Naturally it pleased me greatly to hear the Bar -13th - Association express its public approval of the Preparing my letter acknowledging receipt of a provisions of this Act which has safeguarded our copy of the Resolution passed by the Bar liberties and directed the development of our Association commending my services as Delegate Territorial Government for more than a quarter of a and suggesting the establishment of Aug. 24th each century, although I was somewhat embarrassed at year as Wickersham Day – which I do not approve! the suggestion contained in the Resolution that the out of fair modesty! people of Alaska should feel indebted to me to Diary 46, 1938 -14th - such an extent that they should repay me by giving May 14 In spite of the stories I hear against the value of the my name Kuiu zinc properties the Hawkes party will leave for Diary 46, 1938 14 that locality tonight on Dr. Hawes “Prince of May 14 this great prominence in Alaskan history. Such an Wales,” boat to do the assessment work for this honor would indeed be payment much fuller than I year. Seven men including Hawks will stay their deserve for any services that it has been my six weeks to work on the claims to do both privilege to render to the Territory. assessment & development work. Grace is looking A greater tribute, however, would be mine, if I after our interest – I gave her $30000 with which could know that the citizens of Alaska, among Hawks purchased the food supplies at United Food whom I have labored for nearly forty years, would Co.s store – 2nd & Seward. Brown, manager. The always bravely defend those principles of men who go to work secure an agreement for constitutional government embodied in the Organic division of title to the property in compensation for Act, and give their best efforts to prevent their their labor. destruction or abandonment, in whole or in part. Praise for author of the Organic Act for the part he had in the creation of our present form Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Diary 46, 1938 14 ONeill, St. Paul, thanking him A Mrs. Noyes 85 May 14-15 of government, though personally deeply gratifying, years old fell down the stairs in Valentine Bldg. will be both futile and emply, if those who deem the Mrs. Wickersham & a reporter & taxi man took her work worthy of commendation do not use their best across the street to the Doctor Council clinic. efforts to prevent the destruction of the Sent Hector, Bookseller, Birmingham, England $650 constitutional principles upon which it was based. re payments for Cooks Voyages. Wrote letter & Please convey my thanks to the members of the sent lists potential buyers of “Old Yukon, Tales, Bar Association for this Resolution of appreciation, Trails and Trials to J.T. ONeill, St. Paul, Minn. for which I am deeply grateful. Diary 46, 1938 -19th - Sincerely Yours May 19 Made out W. deed & Contract of sale of Real James Wickersham Estate for DB. Femmer & wife and Whitely & wife, -15th - took acknowledgment, all parties signed & papers Working in library on price fixing it’s a big job. placed in Behrends bank. Holden of Marine Diary 46, 1938 -16th – Airways Co. refused to pay for my services in May 16-17 Recd letter dated May 6th from J.T. ONeill, West Femmer lease. I was employed by Femmer - & Publishing Co. St. Paul, sending with it copy of Holden says he did not promise Femmer to pay for announcement of issuing my “Old Yukon, Tales, all services in the matter – but only for his own Trails & Trials” on June 1st, ’38, also notice “To the attorney – Monagle! Femmer says he will pay me Trade” bookseller prices, discounts etc. and as he agreed with me to do. Working on case of boosting the Book highly. The contents gave me Howard v Warrack Workmens Compensation case! much satisfaction & shows the publishers are doing Diary 46, 1938 -20th – a fine job to get the volume to the public with a May 20-21 Dr. Dawes returned last night from Jack Hawks splendid advertising plan. mines on Kuiu islands. I called just after Jim York -17- saw him. Jim says the Doctor gave him a poor Jack Hawks is successful in securing miners on report – the Doctor gave me a good one! He says stock promises they landed everything, got up their tents, etc. and Diary 46, 1938 17 had good weather! May 17 I have given the money ($30000) to Grace and he Working on Howard v Warrack, case. Smith the and his associates are dealing with her to her dairy man came in to report that Medosweet satisfaction. Dr. Dawes has given them the use of [Meadowsweet] Dairy at Tacoma have incorrect his big boat “Prince of Wales,” and they will leave account – says he will bring me corrected one – Juneau tonight for the claims, loaded with supplies, which I will send to Gagliardi, their attorney. the Dr. in charge to go to the mines to do -21st - assessment & development work on all 32 claims – Bar Assoc. went to Lunch at the glacier road 6 weeks work with seven men. They got away house. I did not go. motion docket called in court, from her tonight late for the mines. They seem nothing. confident – and they seem to be a band of Diary 46, 1938 -22nd – competent miners & prospectors. I hope they will May 22-23 Sunday – working with Grace in the library on Price succeed as they hope for, too. Fixing on my Alaskana! Diary 46, 1938 -17th – 18th - -23rd - May 17-18 Recd. copy of “Cooks Third Voyage” from E. In the Office: Have just read a long address by Hector, 103 John Bright Street Birmingham, Delegate Dimond printed in the Congressional England, price one pound 5 shillings – about $600 Record of May 11th, but not spoken on the floor – it which I will add to my library. Writing letter to J.T. is to be used for “Home Consumption,” by Roden and the crowd of radicals which he organized here Diary 46, 1938 -29th – in Juneau, and their kind throughout the Territory. May 29-30 Sunday: mail from south. Received letters: J.T. It is an appeal to that kind and is both adroit and ONeil, manager West Pub. Co. in relation to the dangerous. publication of my “Old Yukon, Tales, Trails and Faulkner has it. Trials.” Also advertising matter about same & that Diary 46, 1938 -24th – 26th will send me copies next mail. Also letters from May 24-26 Yesterday I took Delegate Dimond’s speech, found Soliabakke & Mifs Lulu W. Fairbanks, Sec. Alaska in the Congressional Record dated March 11th, ’38, Weekly with checks (400) each for copies of the to Faulkner to read. Today he returned it to me book. All very satisfactory to me. saying that there was much opposition to it – also -30th - against his bonding bill & speech – and reports that “Memorial day.” Grace & I answering ONeills letter the people of Fairbanks & other interior places are – sent him both checks & letters form “Little Lulu” – preparing to oppose both at the September Fairbanks, request to send them each a copy of election. I shall not make any answer to the “Old Yukon.” “Unicameral bill,” speech for fear tat my further Diary 46, 1938 -31st- activity may cause Tony’s friends to urge the May 31- Received copy of “Jacket” for my “Old Yukon June 1 Democrats – The “New Dealers” – to support both Tales, Trails & Trials” from publisher, no colors but through a O.K. Young, Royal A. Gunnison, son of Judge Diary 46, 1938 26 Gunnison, declared tourist on SS “______” May 26 political argument. Dimond has announced his visiting Alaska, called at the office & gave them an abandonment of the Bonding Bill – which has autographed Jacket for my book: He (and probably weakened his support of the “Unicameral Bill.” The she) is -are- writing an Alaska book & promised to public seems to be slowly growing opposed to send me a copy. both, and I will not aggravate the matter by any June 1, 1938. further writing for those reasons. The people are Notices of publication of my “Yukon Trails.” fully advised of the danger in the Unicameral Bill – reached Juneau residents today. It is a good so I will “watch and wait,” and keep silent for the “Announcement! and present. My “Appeal” has gone to every part of the Diary 46, 1938 1 Territory and the public mind is aware of the June 1 seems to attract attention, as the publishers wish it danger. Tony is losing ground on both! to. But it does require subscribers to order from Diary 46, 1938 -27th – “Washington Law Book Co.” Washington D.C. May 27-28 Nothing new – the town is quiet and business at a when many seem to think they can order direct standstill. Boats are running regularly, but the from me in Juneau! Grace is greatly pleased, and Union Strikers threaten to cut the fish canning continues to send prospective purchasers names down considerable – a bad thing for Alaska for the to J.T. O’Neill, manager in St. Paul. The Territory depends on canning license taxes very Publishers announcement states that they are largely for its support. Wrote a short note to Ruth printing 6000 copies! The newspapers are writing at Seattle saying race & I might come down soon. up brief reviews. Both the Empire and the Press of Darrell has written saying he will meet us there – to this evening had good notices, and the President, let him know when! Mullen and Cashier, McNaughton, of Behrends -28th - bank sent in orders. Bar Assoc. luncheon – nothing new. Studying the Diary 46, 1938 1 facts in Howard v Warrack. et. al. Sitka June 1-2 [clipping] Compensation case. Alaska Volume Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Is Published Wickersham has nevertheless managed to weave By Wickersham throughout the book a delicate, sober touch of the {Juneau Press.} romance which has pulled Cheechacos and Gleaned from the memory-laden files of the man Sourdoughs again and again to the Northland. who was the first to establish law and order in the ‘Old Yukon” is published by the Washington Law Yukon during the days of ’98, a new history of Book Company, 810 13th St., N.W., Washington, Alaska today was offered to the public –“Old D.C. ($4.00, delivered) Yukon”, by Juneau’s own Judge James -June 2- Wickersham. Filed Motion for Default and proof of services by The 500-page volume varies in mood and scope Publication of Complaint in the Juneau Press, in as its subtitle, “Tales, Trails and Trials”, indicates. the case of Susie Salazar v Andrew Salazar in Told in the accurate detailed manner which has District Court. made the author the most famous of all Alaskan Diary 46, 1938 -3rd – 4th - attorneys, “Old Yukon” comes straight from the pen June 3-4 Received today (4th) letter form Mr. J.T. ONeill of experience. There are 30 chapters in the written May 26th) saying he has sent me copy of volume, each dealing with a different step in the “Old Yukon” by express and expressing some progress of the golden North. criticism of the frontispiece – my own picture - There are tales of the gold rush days, of Soapy saying it was not as good as he hoped because of Smith and the vigilantes, of the men who rose to poor paper in the original sent to him. At that it fortune and sank again to poverty in the Klondike. may look more like me that a better one would. The story of the first trip up Mount McKinley, Also letter from Allen, Fronde & Hilen, Grace’s descriptions of the agonies and suffering Seattle Attorneys regretting that her letter objecting encountered by the early pioneers, midwinter treks to the appointment of a Los Angeles Spanish by dog teams across icy wildernesses and lawyer as Daniels guardian. reminiscences of the Yukon winter trail – all these Diary 46, 1938 4 are embodied in Judge Wickersham’s smooth, June 4-6 I am afraid Dolores will get into the hands of a ample recollections of those days and people. smooth scamp who will lead her to loan Daniels There are stories of pioneer justice in “Old money to his friends & associates. The lawyer is a Yukon”. It was the author who meted out justice Catholic, who has secured a sentimental influence for eight years after President McKinley had etc. just what Grace’s brother feared and sought to appointed him to the position of U.S. district judge prevent!! in Alaska; it was he who guided the legal life of an -5th- area embracing 300,000 square mils. Judge Sunday – at home in the library. Wickersham held the first floating court in the -6th - Territory and was the one upon whom fell the Received a copy – the first one – from the burden of establishing law in the Yukon. publisher – by mail today. Were Judge Wickersham to count the “firsts” We – Grace & I – feel as proud as a new father & which have fallen to his lot, the task alone would mother over the advent of a new baby! It is take many hours of memory work. Instead, he has Diary 46, 1938 6 taken his experiences and knotted them together in June 6-7 a good looking book – well printed, beautifully a fascinating convincing pattern of early historical illustrated, and quite satisfactory as we had values. But not only to the historian will ‘Old anticipated. There seems to be considerable Yukon” appeal. Maintaining always a clear and interest among the pioneers about it! lucid picture, unembellished by fancy, Judge -7th - Book stores received packages of “Old Yukon,” Sunday: Charles E. Taylor and Andrew Nerland, and report prompt sales. Of course it will require Fairbanks arrived in Juneau by airplane – 5-1/2 some time to get advertising started! But I am hours called at house & took dinner with us at the interviewed by many friends who congratulate me Gastineau restaurant. – then to theater to see on the public interest apparent in the book. Have “Firefly.” Jeanette McDonald singer. read it and find it as good as I expected! Diary 46, 1938 -13th – Prepared Demurer to the Amended Complaint in June 13-15 Taylor & Nerland left on boat early this morning for case of Howard Seattle – sent Lucille, Charles daughter – my sister Diary 46, 1938 7 Mays also, by mail copy of “Old Yukon.” June 7-9 vs Warrack, et. al. #4207A, and will serve & file it -14th – tomorrow. C.L. Andrews in town. Gathering funds for my -8th – Seattle trip – start June 24th – sent telegram to Received 14 copies of “Old Yukon” books today Darrell tonight giving him my leaving time. Letter from publisher – Washington Book Company (West from J.T. O’Neill about good sale of “Old Yukon.” Publishing Company’s subsidiary). -15th - So that’s that! Grace reserved tickets etc. on “Northland” for 24th. Served demurrer in Howard vs. Warrack, et. al. & C.L. Andrews called – in amiable frame of mind. filed in court. Diary 46, 1938 -16- -9th - June 16 Grace &I attended dinner last night at home of Mrs. Sent copies of my “Old Yukon” to Darrell (S.F.) Arnold & son & son present Hawksworth, Bauer Ruth Coffin, Jim W. Wickersham, Patoka, Ill. Jim Mr. R.E. Robertson & Mrs. Robertson. It was a ONeill, 722 Seventh St. S.F. & to Hon. Frank good chicken dinner cooked by Mrs. Cone, a Bentley, Madison Wisconsin. famous Juneau cook. Diary 46, 1938 -10th - Received telegram from Hansen & Rowland, Ins. June 10 Sent a copy of my “Old Yukon” with my Agents, Tacoma in regard to case of Howard vs compliments to Phillip S. Smith, Geological Survey, Warrack, Warrack Construction Co. & London U.S. Washington D.C. Copies are selling here in Guarantee & Accident Co. instructing me special Juneau well, and new orders are going to the action for London Co.!!! Sent Tacoma Agent night publishers! Also sent copies of Amended letter – copy to Warrack – containing my answer to Complaint & Summons to Hansen & Rowland Night Letters! Genl. Agents of London Guarantee & Accident Co. Diary 46, 1938 -16th continued- Tacoma, Washington – told them in letter that I June 16-17 A telegraphic dispatch in the Juneau Empire this would be in Tacoma about July first for evening announces that the Femmer case v City of consultation. Sent Ruth Coffin, Darrell & Jim Juneau, was affirmed by the U.S. Circuit Court of Wickersham, Patoka, copies also. Sales are good Appeals in S.F. today – we lost! Of course, I am – hope they continue so. disappointed! but not for the first time. Diary 46, 1938 -11th – -17th - June 11-12 Luncheon with Juneau Bar Assoc. Faulkner – his wife & son left Juneau this morning Grace is copying from Alaska Telephone books on the Canadian boat for a journey to Europe via from Ketchikan to Fairbanks the names of his old home in Nova Scotia! prospective buyers of Old Yukon & sending to J.T. The “Old Yukon” seems going O.K. ONeill, West Pub. Co. St. Paul, etc. busy as a bird -18th- dog in quail meadow. The world goes along calmly as usual -12th - C.L. Andrews attended Bar Assoc. Luncheon Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Diary 46, 1938 -19th – Diary 46, 1938 23 June 19-21 Sunday – Worked with Grace in the library – she June 23 in Petersburg early this morning when I first saw on making cards for listing Alaskana received since Petersburg – in July 1900 a salmon cannery was in publication of “Bibliography” – for supplemented process of construction there by Peter Buschman, catalogue! Our friend C.L. Andrews came to a vigorous fisherman from Seattle. It was locally dinner - Mrs. Helen Hawkes, also called Peters cannery” – thence “Peters town,” & -20th – finally “Petersburg.” The name was this named In the office as usual. Getting ready to go to after old “Peter” – the canneryman & had nothing in Seattle with Grace on the “Northland,” tomorrow common with “Petersburg” of Russia. This evening. information, came from Mr. H.S. Finch, fish buyer, C.L. Andrews gave me a copy of his “The Pioneers who was agent for Peter Bushman, the & Nuggets of Verse.” canneryman at that time - & Finch was first Mayor -21st - – named all the streets – surveyed the town etc. Middle of the Solar Year: Storm ended. Finch also told me of finding an old moss covered Ready to go to Seattle on Northland! cedar board on the Diary 46, 1938 -21 continued- Diary 46, 1938 23 June 21-22 Editor Atwood, Anchorage Times called with June 23-25 divide been[?] Port Conclusion & Port Alexander a copy of the Old Yukon which I autographed. Also reciting the presence in Port Conclusion of a letter from E.A Brinmstool, of Hollywood, Cal. Vancouver’s H.M.S. vessels in 1793. Will call this came saying he was a schoolmate friend of Dr. Will fact to the attention of Forest Service at Juneau! H. Chase, & wanted a copy of my autograph for his -25th- copy of Old Yukon, wrote and sent it with pleasure. Landed at Prince Rupert B.C. this morning & We boarded the Northland at the dock tonight unloaded many tierces of salmon for shipment via expecting her to go soon – but she was delayed. Canadian Northern Railway to New York – for -22nd - Finch, fishbuyer. All day reading Irving Stone’s The steamer remained at the Juneau dock all night chapters in Saturday Evening Post, about Jack and only got going this morning late. Met friends London – “Sailor on Horseback”- of his biography & when we landed at Hoonah – Comstock – a friend travels - Life & Alaska writings. Continued south of Geo. Kerin Stewart from Trou[?] toward Seattle. Diary 46, 1938 22 Diary 46, 1938 -26- June 22-23 who had a son at Fairbanks. also met Henry June 26-28 Grace is arranging cards & data on my Moser, fur trader Miscellaneous list of library & type writing same. Inspected Hoonah water front. My old friends She is a worker! This misc. list will include all Steve Kane & others not in sight – beautiful sunset. books not noted in my Biographical 1924, list & -23rd- Through Seymour Narrows. Through beautiful Peril Straits & arrived at Sitka in -27th – forenoon. Grace & I and others walked out to Passed though Active Pass. into Puget Sound, Indian river – examined the totem poles, stopped at reached Seattle, this evening at 5 p.m. Darrell & the Sheldon Jackson Memorial School – examined Ruth waiting for us on Dock 5 – went to Frye Hotel. its interesting exhibit of books, curios, etc. Met -28th - Mrs. Condit – he had gone out early to fish & did Darrell & I went to call on Dr. Bentley – oculist. He not return while we were there. We met tow examined my eyes carefully – said my vision is interesting half breed – Eskimo – Indian. impaired by cataract growing on lens in my left eye – the Diary 46, 1938 28 today for Grace. June 28 lens in my right eye was removed by an operation about 15 years ago by Dr. Wilmer, Washington, Diary 46, 1938 Sunday 3rd- D.C. & that I will be blind in my left eye by the July [clipping] cataract, but I can be furnished with good sight in Law, ‘As Was,’ in Far North; the right eye by the use of a special glass which Wickersham, Here, Reflects will act as a lense instead of the natural lens in the {Seattle Times, July 3.} eye which was removed by Dr. Wilmer, years ago! It’s been thirty-eight years since Judge James That this renewed sight will cure the blindness and Wickersham took the law to the North Country, badly impaired vision in both eyes. I attended the since he rented a log cabin to use as a federal Herbert Hoover banquet, accompanied by Ruth courthouse in Eagle City, Alaska, and assumed Coffin! The ex president met me kindly & jurisdiction over an expanse of wilderness, remembered me instantly. Ruth & I also attended mountains and rivers as big as Ohio, Indiana and the speaking & banquet & enjoyed the evening. th Illinois. Diary 46, 1938 -29 – Ever since that day he has been writing a book. June 29-30 Grace started to Los Angeles early this morning by For many years-all during the time he served as a through stage line to bring Daniel Vrooman judge and during the decade and a half he was a (Vroman) back – he will go to Alaska for this delegate from Alaska to Congress-it was a series summer vacation with us on our return. Of course of diaries. In 1928, believing his book was to be a a stage trip to Los Angeles is a long hard trip, but history, he published a bibliography of Alaskan she is active, well & does not shrink from such trips literature. He has a library of 10,000 volumes in – enjoyed them. th many languages devoted entirely to the North. -30 - Half History, Half Personal Darrell, Jane & I went to Buckley today in Darrells But much of the early history of Alaska is printed fine automobile – saw Harry, Minnie France & in Russian. Wickersham, refusing to use material family, Maude & Nellie – then to Enumclaw, had gained second-hand from these works, changed dinner with Harold, Dorothy, Helen McGovern his plans for his book. It became half history and (Harold’s sister from Los Angeles) & their children half personal experience, and covered only the (Harold 2 boys, Helen 2 boys). Then to Seattle. years since 1900. Diary 46, 1938 July 1, 1938 It was published a few weeks ago, under the title July 1-2 Visited office of “Alaska Weekly, saw Knight, “Old Yukon.” Editor, Pat Colter & Lulu Fairbanks, assistants. Judge Wickersham, visiting in Seattle yesterday, “Little Lulu,” accompanied Ruth, Darrell & me to talked about the book and some of the memories lunch & then for a ride around the parks in Darrells of early days in the North which it brings to life. automobile. The editor & his cheerful assistants “There wasn’t any law of any description in al the are all friendly to me and give the “Old Yukon” territory along the Yukon River in 1900, when I good notices in reviews, etc. To Puyallup dairy went there,” he said. “There was a judge in ranch with Darrell Jane & Ruth Juneau who handled the whole of Alaska – or was -2- supposed to – but his influence didn’t penetrate Received my new eye glasses today – as usual very far inland. they are strange, awkward & unsatisfactory, but I “Eagle City was just a wild mining camp when I can see that they are according to the ocultist’s got there. I had authority to collect money for prescription & will work satisfactorily in time. 15 licenses and also to build a courthouse and jail – copies of “Old Yukon” book arrived from St Paul Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 but no expenses from Washington, D.C. Seattle at midnight, on July 3rd. Darrell & Jane left “So I collected a thousand dollars apiece from for S.F. at 7 a.m. before Grace could see them! saloons for licenses and, in my capacity as judge, sent men out to get logs for buildings. There was a little mill at the Army post nearby. while the logs were cut and sawed and the buildings constructed, I held court in a log cabin. “My first case concerned a dog and I didn’t open a law book. A big Indian chief came down the river a hundred and fifty miles with a lot of braves all armed to the teeth. An Indian named Jack had Diary 46, 1938 3 stolen his dog and had come to Eagle City. After a July 3-4 Grace brought back with her a letter written by lot of inquiring the chief decided I was Big White Darrell to Mrs. Miles, with whom Dolores & Daniel Chief and spent a half day describing the god and boarded in Los Angeles, giving his reasons for his its theft. refusal to bring Daniel north to Seattle at Graces “After that I went down to a saloon where I knew friendly request!!! I would find one of the deputy marshals, told him to -July 4th 1938. get the dog away from Jack and then went out with Up early with Grace & Daniel, hoping to see Darrell the chief and sat on a stump. After a while the & Jane before they left Seattle – they were gone an deputy brought the dog back, the chief led him hour or more!! away and I went home. It was a fine 4th of July parade – Daniel carried an “But trials concerning gold claims were American flag which he waned[?] from the something else again. Everybody in town and sidewalk. Dinner with Shel Wettach, sourdough – most of the people for miles around would attend. Autographed 8 copies of “Old Yukon” for him to Then the miners concerned would start testifying. send back to his friends Carrollton, Ohio! There was more lying and more profanity in those Diary 46, 1938 -July 5th - trials than in any other courtroom I ever saw. I July 5 Grace Daniel & I visited Tacoma. Consulted with never wore my robes and learned a new technique Winden. Told him to sell my C. St. House & 66-2/3 in administering the law.” feet lots for not less than $400000. He paid me Judge Wickersham, who is 81 years old, and check for $25000 on collections. Called up Mave lives in Juneau plans to keep on writing about Olds who met us at the Winthrop Hotel – invited us Alaska “as long as I’m alive.” He will visit in Seattle to visit with her on Saturday. Gave her an for two weeks. autographed copy of “Old Yukon.” Diary 46, 1938 Sunday. -3rd- Called & consulted with Hansen & Rowland, July 3 Ruth, Darrel & I visited Greenlake Park – a good Insurance agents – about case of Levi Howard v trip which we all enjoyed. Lunch with Ruths Warrack, Ins. Co. et. al. Back to Seattle to dinner mother, all three. Ruth had dinner with Darrell & at the Seattle Athletic Club with Shel Wettach & Jane & me at the Frye – where the Los Angeles Lulu Fairbanks – a fine dinner! stage came in bringing Grace and Daniel! Grace “Old Yukon “ books selling well! left Seattle on June 29th –early in the morning, rode Diary 46, 1938 -6th - day & night 29th & 30th when she landed in Los July 6 Called to see Judge A.J. Balliet – whom I Angeles early on the morning of July 1st. passed appointed U.S. Commissioner [?] at Rampart July 1st in Los Angeles, leaving there on the Stage Alaska to get a line on the litigation over George July 2, early, rode day & night arrived back in W. Carmack’s litigation with “Kate” his Tagish Indian wife. He gave me some of his legal briefs government loans, and he doesn’t mince words. on the law facts in that case. And suggested that I Wants Sound Growth call on Frank E. Hammond the attorney for Kate for “Put a beggar on horseback and he’s going to what he might have saved in the case. I called on run a race,” he quoted. “With the government Hammond who was in the law offices of Fred scattering this largness in our midst – money we Wettrick, who told me that Hammond had moved don’t need – we’re going to grow too fast and not the day before to a new office in the L.C. Smith soundly. tower building. I did so to be informed by “Our country must necessarily have a slow Hammond that he growth and we always grow soundly. Now, the Diary 46, 1938 6 government is scattering around up there for things July 6 given most of his Carmack papers to Wettrick only we don’t need – for the promotion of private “yesterday.” Called up Wettrick again who said he schemes. If we’re honest, we’re going to have to had the Carmack papers, pictures, etc. & would pay that money back some day. bring them down to my hotel in an hour and give “Another thing, we resent being put on the poor them to me! He did so, and I received a mass in list. We have given the United States two and one- that way. Hammond had just thrown a big bundle half billion dollars in trade in excess of what the of letters written by Carmack, Kate & their daughter government paid to buy Alaska. We have the into the waste basket. He rummaged in the waste undeveloped resources as they are needed to basket, yet standing open in his office & rescued a support Alaskans. And we should leave a healthy large bundle of the letters, dated about 1900, and situation like that alone.” gave them to me. In this way I received a Judge Wickersham conceded that some of the complete record of dates, facts, etc. relating to government money has been well spent – for roads Carmack & his troubles. and things like that. Diary 46, 1938 6th continued He favors opening up the Alaskan airways in July 6-7 Grace, Daniel & I went out to Kent and called on preference to spending millions for what he termed Mr. & Mrs. Faucher. Grace’s sister Ida, & spent an a “spectacular international highway that could only hour with them. be kept open six months each year.” -7th - First District Judge A “Star newspaper reporter & photographer called “We need that road from the northwest – but we – get a picture. don’t need it badly yet and its usefulness wouldn’t cover the tremendous cost. Airplanes are the [clipping] answer for a country geographically situated as Take away the government’s “pump priming” ours – and the money we save by holding off on money before it ruins Alaska – a country that has that international highway might well be invested in always paid its own way and supported its own developing smaller roads into the interior.” citizens and always will! Judge Wickersham, first district judge ever That was the plea today of Judge James appointed to the territory by the government, has Wickersham, noted Alaskan jurist and author, who spent 40 years developing the country’s judiciary was in Seattle for his brief annual “pilgrimage” to machinery – and has written several books in this the states-a journey he has made each year for the field. The latest, “Old Yukon,” a bibliography of past 40. Alaska and Alaskan jurisprudence, is just off the The 81-year-old jurist, a walking advertisement press. for the healthy climate of a country he has played a He spent eight years on the bench, 12 in vital part in building, has very definite views on congress, and the balance “just trying to make Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Alaska build itself into the country it can be.” Davis & all points on the plains where I used to live “If folks will just let us alone, we’ll be all right,” he & gather in votes in the fall. finished, with a decisive snap of his firm jaw. Diary 46, 1938 9

July 9-10 She has now a copy of both my books – the This page Bibliography & Old Yukon. she used to keep a little (over) school for the children who lived on “C” street near Diary 46, 1938 8 her including my son Howard, Dolph McClain, etc. July 8 [clipping continued] etc. and both Debbie & I greatly admired her - & I ‘Leave Alaska Alone do yet. Allen has given me an invitation on the part {Seattle Star July 8, 1938} of the Seattle Com. Chamber of Commerce to [photo of Wickersham lighting a cigar] have dinner with them on next Thursday. Judge James Wickersham, noted Alaskan jurist -10- and author visiting in Seattle, says too much Resting my eyes and getting them accustomed to government ‘pump priming’ money will spoil the change in glasses. Grace, Daniel & I went to Alaska’s independence and stability. theatre to see Snow White – a pen drawn childrens ‘Pump Prime’ Alaska? picture – very fine No, Says Wickersham; Diary 46, 1938 -11th – She’ll Prosper Alone July 11-13 th After more Carmack material today. Grace & Ruth Diary 46, 1938 -7 (including above) getting copies on the Alaska boats! July 7-8 Judge Balliets partners, Mr. Steffens arranged for -12th – me to meet Mrs. Marguarite Carmack – Geo. W Accepted my friend Allens invitation to attend Carmacks second wife – today. We had a long Chamber of Commerce dinner – luncheon – on and interesting conversation in which she told me Thursday. much of her experiences with Geo. and gave me -13th - some more printed data, including a copy of her was nursemaid today for Daniel while Grace & pamphlet - & pictures of Kate & her daughter by Ruth went to the Washington University to examine George. th my collection of Alaska newspapers. -8 - It was a big job and they could not finish it. I am Grace & Ruth arranging sales of “Old Yukon” on anxious to get a complete list for my list of papers Alaska boats, good. Consulted Dr. Bentleys since printing Bibliography partners – oculist who advises patience & constant Diary 46, 1938 -14th – use of glasses – says I will become July 14-15 sent autographed copies of my “Old Yukon” to Mrs. Diary 46, 1938 8 Sarah McPatton, Hoquiam, and Mrs. Dorothy July 8-9 used to them in good time. Hanson and Mrs. Helen McGovern, Enumclaw. Graces Juneau friend Mifs Miller, government Harolds sister & wife, Enumclaw. nurse called with Ruth to get an autographed copy Also copy to Mrs. Minnie Lake, my cousin, Buckley. of “Old Yukon.” Grace is looking up reservations Mrs. Lizzie Wickersham, my brother Edgars widow on the American boats going to Alaska, finds it & her sister Pearl called & had dinner with us. almost impossible to get one & we may be obliged Gave Lizzie autographed copy of “Old Yukon.” to go Canadian. All copies of “Old Yukon” sold out. -15th - -9- O.W. Peterson, manager of proposed dedication of Mave Olds and her aunt from Tacoma come over Alaska way on Seattle Waterfront called. He is son to Seattle this morning & Ruth & I went with them of my old friend Olaf Peterson who lived on Muck to visit my old town of Tacoma. We visited Fort n Creek near Roy Pierce Co. Wash she gets around, aye, that she does. Visiting old friends here for a few weeks, Mrs. Harrington, who during most of the year is a self Diary 46, 1938 15th continued respecting housewife in the Berkshire Hills of July 15-17 Mrs. Maloney called – lunch. Massachusetts, has very definite ideas about her George E. Dilley, 39 South La Salle Chicago, sent next Alaska book. copy of Old Yukon for autographing – Fairbanks There will be no pictures of sourdoughs looking family – signed & returned book to him. like ants crawling up the Chilkoot and Dyea trails. -16th – “Every book I ever saw on Alaska has some picture We left Seattle on Princess Kathleen at 9 a.m. via like that,” Mrs. Harrington said. “It’s getting to be a Victoria, P.M. General Farley left same hour on chestnut.” SS. Aleutian for Alaska. We changed at Chestnut, according to Webster, means a stale Vancouver B.C. on the Princess Charlotte – joke east of the Hudson-which is something we Saturday evening. didn’t know before.) -17th - On her current trip to Alaska, her fourth, Mrs. Daniel was registered by mistake as Daniel Harrington will explore the Chilkoot River a bit, then Wickersham. Over 225 tourists on board our head down the Yukon in a steamboat for a voyage vessel. up the Porcupine. She will probably choose this Diary 46, 1938 th 18 = little-traveled river as the theme of her next book. July 18-20 at Alert Bay th A deeply-interested friend of Alaska, Mrs. July 19 Harrington recently published “Cinderella Takes a Reached Prince Rupert, landed for much trouble in Holiday in the Northland”, in which she narrates her landing at Alert Bay & Prince Rupert. Left Prince experiences on the Yukon in naïve and interesting Rupert early landed at Ketchikan 7 p.m. Called on fashion. And when she returns to Adams-the town Hunt & others. Passed Wrangell & Petersburg in wher Samuel Adams made his incendiary the night. th speeches and talked a few peaceful farmers into 20 starting a revolution over a tax – we trust she will Boat visited Taku glacier this evening for the give us an other pleasant glimpse into her tourists, and Juneau reached about 430 p.m. & northland. Home. Jack Hawkes met us at the dock with st Diary 46, 1938 July 21 – 1938 Dyrdahl’s automobile. Mrs. Hawkes had a good July 21-24 Much mail – at office early. Attending to belated supper ready for us. We are all tired and glad to matters. U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reported get home again. decided case of Femmer against me, but no copy

of the decision reached me yet. [clipping] Daniel Vrooman renewing his hearty – loud – DAILY PRESS, JUN. playing with Jackie Hawkes. Minor Mills et. al. Rebie Harrington To nd -22 – Sail Up Porcupine Same as usual in the office. Write Alaska Tome rd -23 – {July 20, 1938} Grace’s Birthday. Daniel sleeps with Jackie Rebie Harrington doesn’t think much of your Hawkes. Grace received birthday present by mail airplanes, your dog-sleds or your open riverboats. from Ruth. I gave her a remembrance also. She doesn’t move very far off the beaten line of District Court in session. travel, not even when she comes to Alaska. But -24- Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Sunday, at home – writing up my diary. It never was trampled so hard on before. So you men and you ladies may all go to Hades, - I’ll never set foot in this house any more.” Diary 46, 1938 [inside back cover] [Another copy of advertisement pamphlet for It’s all botheration, this civilization, Wickersham’s book “Old Yukon”] That’s killin’ the camp while it’s makin’ the town; Though the styles may be finer, whenever a miner, [also poem:] Comes down for a smile, he is met with a frown. THE SQUAW DANCE AT PADDY MCCOSH’S. They may rob me of pleasures, still memory treasures The Ball at McCosh’s when Danny went down. From the Alaska News, Nov. 8, 1894. It is ages since Juneau, as I know and you know, ..J.S.B. (Judge J.S. Bugby) Has had a squaw dance, like the one I relate; Diary 46, 1938 20 July 20-25 ‘Twas at Paddy McCosh’s, when the female siwashes [clipping again] Arrayed in gay calico, gathered in state. DAILY PRESS, JUN. Rebie Harrington To I was down from the basin, and just took a look in; Sail Up Porcupine I dropped in quite early so’s not to be late. Write Alaska Tome Sammy Bohen was callin’ the figures, ‘till bawlin’ {July 20, 1938} Had made him as hoarse as a raven could be. Rebie Harrington doesn’t think much of your And Big Diller, the Daisy, who fiddled so aisy, Was whoopin’ ‘em up to the top nochest key; airplanes, your dog-sleds or your open riverboats. And besides ‘em was Peter the Greek, a world beater, She doesn’t move very far off the beaten line of For settin’ up whiskey, as if it was free. travel, not even when she comes to Alaska. But she gets around, aye, that she does. There was Chicken Ridge Fanny, Black Em and Black Visiting old friends here for a few weeks, Mrs. Annie, Harrington, who during most of the year is a self And Salmon Creek Kit, and more ladies I knew; respecting housewife in the Berkshire Hills of All a ‘twistin’ and ‘twirlin’, chasse-sayin’ and Whirlin’ Massachusetts, has very definite ideas about her ‘Twas like they’d been swiggin’ Old Yank’s hoochinoo- next Alaska book. Amongst the whole outfit was never a shoe. There will be no pictures of sourdoughs looking We were runnin’ ahead well ‘till twelve by the Treadwell, like ants crawling up the Chilkoot and Dyea trails. When Danny the Watchman, came in feelin’ fine; “Every book I ever saw on Alaska has some picture Sez he, “Boys, I am sorry to break up your sworry, like that,” Mrs. Harrington said. “It’s getting to be a But squaws cannot stay in the town after nine; chestnut.” So it’s quick you’ll be clearin’ the house, for I’m fearin’ Chestnut, according to Webster, means a stale Your klooches are getting too full of your wine.” joke east of the Hudson-which is something we didn’t know before.) And wid that Crazy Sally, like girls in a bally, On her current trip to Alaska, her fourth, Mrs. Raised up her bare foot and just kicked off his hat. Then Slim Sarah and Lilly soon had him knocked silly, Harrington will explore the Chilkoot River a bit, then And traveled all over him just like a mat. head down the Yukon in a steamboat for a voyage We were all so near dyin’ wid laughin’ an cryin’ up the Porcupine. She will probably choose this Before we could stop them they’d trod him out flat. little-traveled river as the theme of her next book. A deeply-interested friend of Alaska, Mrs. When at last out of pity, we induced ‘em to quit, he Harrington recently published “Cinderella Takes a rose up and remarked, as he ateered for the door;- Holiday in the Northland”, in which she narrates her “All my power is ended; the law you’ve offended, experiences on the Yukon in naïve and interesting fashion. And when she returns to Adams-the town Diary 46, 1938 -26- wher Samuel Adams made his incendiary July 26 The General Insurance Company being organized speeches and talked a few peaceful farmers into by John M. Chappell and associates of Juneau, starting a revolution over a tax – we trust she will has held me out as its proposed President for a give us an other pleasant glimpse into her year and more as its first President, but I have northland. positively refused to permit my name to appear in its corporate papers now being prepared for filing. [clipping] (1) because I do not have the necessary capital to Judge Wickersham invest, and (2) do not wish to assume the burden of Returns to Juneau carrying on the work for which I am so little {July 20, 1938} qualified. The organization have been so informed, If a man is no older than he feels, Judge James and have consented to supply another more Wickersham, author of “Old Yukon”, is right in his competent official and release me. prime. The former delegate to Congress returned Diary 46, 1938 26 to Juneau yesterday afternoon from Seattle where July 26-27 They will replace me with – probably – Mike he underwent successful optical treatment. Hennegan from Ketchikan, to my relief, and have Accompanied by Mrs. Wickersham, Judge also engaged R.E. Robertson, as their attorney Wickersham spent most of the time in Seattle and instead of Henry Roden. The papers will be so renewed acquaintances with many old friends. amended and filed this week, as I am informed and Ten days ago Judge Wickersham was honored at approve. a dinner given by the Alaska committee of the -27th - Seattle Chamber of Commerce. He was the main Same as usual in the office. speaker of the evening. Gathering data for the Study of Catherine First, July 20, 1938 second wife of Peter the Great. Have sorted my I see very poorly! books relating to both of these Russians who Monday July 25, 38 organized the Bering Expedition in search for the The S.S. Aleutian was in this morning early. Lulu American coasts, with the expectation of writing a Fairbanks party of tourists on board going south. volume about Catherine I, & her interest in the They called us with loud ringing of the telephone & Bering – Cherikov voyages. got us out of bed. Diary 46, 1938 -28th - Diary 46, 1938 July 25, continued July 28 Working out my list of Russian books – English July 25 Lulu brought about 20 up to the house – in 2 volumes – on Catherine I, and preparing the list of busses – we received them & they occupied the characters who were important in Catherines Life library for about 20 minutes – Froeessell(?) Judge as Godmother for Alaska. of N.Y. Supreme Court & others had copies of the Ruth – Graces neice is engaged in Seattle in “Old Yukon” to autograph. I did autographing while spreading “Old Yukon,” for sale has promised the Aleutian’s last whistle blew loudly for their purchases to furnish autographic copies to all immediate return to that vessel. I enjoyed their purchasers. Grace sent her a telegram last night visit and the complimentary remarks they made to sign my autograph to the books – for it would about my book & library - & they rushed away to cost too much to send a thousand – or any number their boat. P.M. Genl. Farley returned on the to me for my signature – so she must do the Aleutian but went on into Fairbanks with Dimond – signing of my name for the Alaska function taking on politics tent! place there. Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Diary 46, 1938 -29th- Diary 46, 1938 -30th continued. July 29 In the office as usual. July 30 Bar Association at the Inn – on the circle road Recd. letter from Sandy Smith from Atlin, B.C. with around Auk Lake – near the rifle range & C.C.C. Four ($400) dollars for a copy of “Old Yukon,” boys camp a beautiful day – glorious mountain Stopped in Hayes Store to autograph remaining (3) views. Rode with Frank Boyle in his fine copies of Old Yukon at Hayes request. Mrs. automobile. Visited the home of Mr. & Mrs. Drake Wickersham is expecting more copies on first boat. – a beautiful spot – with wonderful water views in Spent some hours discussing the parentage etc. of front of old Auke camp sites. Catherine 1st. Invited to attend Bar Association at “The Inn,” on [clipping] the road to Mendenhall glacier tomorrow – dinner IMMORTALIZED by Felix Gray, Commissioner & Robert Coughlin[?] SAM M’GEE IS court clerk to ride out with Banfield to attend the ENROUTE YUKON

feast with him. Accepted Famous Character of Rob- Diary 46, 1938 -30th - ert Service’s Poem July 30 While in Seattle the attorneys for the appellant Heads “Home” Marguerite Carmack, Messrs C.H. Steffen and The famous Sam M’Gee of Robert Service’s Andrew J. Balliet, and the attorney for Hermon S. “cremation” was in Juneau last night on the Prince Frye, Admr. of the Estate of George W. Carmack Rupert on his way back to the Yukon, surrounded deceased, and Frank E. Hammond, Esq. and J.J. by admiring feminine friends, a rotund, white haired Sullivan, attorney for Rose Curtis, sister and and jolly individual who in real life “never minded Graphie Grace Lafteg, married daughter of George the cold a bit,” is “very much alive” and “never even McCarmack, dcd. in the matter of said Estate, saw Tennessee.” informed me of the suit over said Estate, carried to ‘The Northern Lights have seen the Supreme Court of the State of Washington. I queer sights, wrote to the Clerk of said Court and asked for But the queerest they ever did copies of Brief & Record of facts, etc. and received see the first papers this day! Was the night on the marge of Diary 46, 1938 July 30th, continued Lake Lebarge July 30 The attorneys & Mrs. Marguerite Carmack gave me I cremated Sam McGee.” a series of letters written by George W. Carmack, Though the character was real, Robert W. about his affairs to parties before his death, and Service drew largely upon his imagination for the many letters by other people about George & his story of the picturesque Yukon miner from Estate, & the Copies of pictures, etc. etc. The Tennessee, who is now on his way back to his old Clerk of the Supreme Court under date of July haunts in the Yukon Territory after an absence of 1938, wrote me a long and important letter about 29 years, having been back for a few weeks twenty the suit and sent me the briefs & copies of the years ago. Facts prepared by the attorneys for both sides – It is no wonder that Robert Service chose this and I now have an important and accurate account man to immortalize in his national known poem and & record of Carmack’s life, death & particularly of if he were to see him today he would find him the his mining experiences in the Klondike as the material for more than one poem, using his own Discoverer of that great Gold Field. words, he is “seventy years young,” and is going back to the Yukon not the hard way which he knew in his younger days but in the new Diary 46, 1938 30 Wickersham very obligingly fulfilled. When tourists July 30-31 revolutionizing way of boat and plane. discovered that the very aristocratic looking “Yes, I knew Service,” Sam stated, “that poem was gentleman conversing with Sam McGee was the published in 1907 but it was written sometime author of one of Alaska’s most outstanding and before that. At that time, he was a teller for the recently published books, the sale of “Old Yukon” Canadian Bank of Commerce at Whitehorse and reached its peak in a very few minutes, and Judge before that , he was at Dawson.” Wickersham’s pen was dry in no time at all. In Whitehorse in front if his cabin which he built McGee also autographed, for many tourists, many with his own hands in 1900, is a sign, “Have a cup of the books of Service’s poems. of tea with the ghost of Sam McGee.” Few who -July 31st - read Service’s poem believe that Sam McGee is Sunday – writing letters to correspondents – still living, but Sam is proving to be a very material acknowledged receipt of records, briefs etc. from ghost and should anyone believe him not to be the clerk Supreme Court of Washington in matter of original, he carries with him the valedictory address Estate of Geo. W. Carmack & presented when he left the Yukon in 1907. He is Diary 46, 1938 31 still looking forward to a great reunion with his old July 31- sent for[to] the court – copies of my Bibliography of August 3 friends in the Yukon who still survive. Alaska Literature & copy of “Old Yukon Tales, Dick Corless, the “flying prospector,” the pioneer Trails & Trials,” – complimentary. of the gold prospecting by air in the Yukon is August 1st 1938. accompanying Mr. McGee. Mr. Corless and his In the office as usual. No mail & nothing new. son Tom, who is the pilot, have been operating Daniel Vrooman rules Grace – who loves him like a airplanes from Fort George since 1928, real mother! He is bright & active child whose mind prospecting soely by air. Corless and McGee will runs like a dynamo – always thinking & doing be partners in a gold mining venture at the something far ahead of his years. headwaters of the Liard River, near Pelly River. In -August 2.- the old days it was impossible to mine that area as Same as usual – but find it almost impossible to it took three months to walk in and that left no time see well enough to read. to work if the prospector were to get back before -3rd- the freeze up. “Now we can make it in one hour I have just learned that Andrew and twenty minutes,” Corless said. Diary 46, 1938 3rd continued August 3 Nerland some days ago wrote to Faulkner [clipping] requesting the letter to collect from the Judge Wickersham Republicans the sum of $100. or more and send to Boosts Sale of him (Nerland) to aid in printing an argument or Latest Novel advertisement to be published in the newspapers Autograph hunters were in luck last evening with against the Unicameral Scheme of abolishing the both Sam McGee, famed character in the Robert Alaska Senate! Of course I favor the fight against W. Service book, and Judge James Wickersham, the Unicameral Plan – and would pay my share of author of “Old Yukon,” in town. Both, very the publication of objections to its enactment. But obligingly put their “John Henry’s” on books. if the opposition is organized in Faulkners office, & It all started when “Sam” walked into one of the he collects the sinews of war against it – The Labor local Curio shops, purchased one of Judge Party, Wickersham’s books, and expressed a wish to obtain the author’s signature, which wish Judge Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Diary 46, 1938 -3rd continued intervening 42 years have established a lasting August 3 which favors the unicameral Plan, - & the New “Empire” in this golden Northland. Deal crowd headed by A.J. Dimond, Delegate, will Diary 46, 1938 5 declare the money & influence both originate with August 5 [clipping continued] the Cannery group, and the result will be great To review the great drama as enacted by its prejudice against our fight to prevent the adoption earliest men and women and put it in form of a of the Unicameral scheme. The Faulkner is in volume that is both an invaluable historic record Europe & Banfield has called a meeting of and a fascinating chronicle of adventure is no small Republicans & others to meet in his office today to task. Only one who has been a participant and has take action in collecting the money. I am not observed the subsequent developments could favorable to the Unicameral scheme. I am much undertake the task with any measure of accuracy opposed to it, but considering it very bad politics to and satisfaction. do so I will not not attend the meeting – but I will This has been done with remarkable success by pay my share to oppose the Unicameral scheme. th Judge Wickersham, outstanding Alaskan in his Diary 46, 1938 -4 - recently issued volume of 500 pages entitled “Old August 4 In the office – nothing much doing. Yukon.” Jack Hawkes recently refused to accept Written at this period, 40 years after he came employment from the Forest Service because it into the country and helped establish the first was not agreeable work – it was work on the courts, participating in the founding of many of its overseeing laborers building a new trail on Nugget outstanding towns ands communities, has lent to Creek on the north side of Mendenhall Glacier – 00 the writer advantage of perspective that would not the pay was $140. per month – and he wanted an have been possible by a writer of an earlier day. office job – which they promised to give him later – The judge’s long experience in the territory as a he refused the job & prefers to loaf!! Both Grace & pioneer jurist, 14 years a delegate to congress, and I urged him to accept the job – for he owes me for author of many legal and other works gained for a years rent – over $600. and I need the money – him a knowledge possessed by possibly no other hence relations are just now strained between us!! living Alaskan. Diary 46, 1938 -5th - A vast collection of many books, records and August 5 I received a very flattering editorial review of “Old innumerable photographs touching the days of Yukon” from my friend Charles R. Settlemier, editor which he has written were an invaluable aid in his of the Fairbanks News Miner. He was formerly book. editor on the Dawson papers. I will write my In “Old Yukon” Judge Wickersham has appreciations! I am pleased to get many others! presented 30 fascinating chapters, with scores of

pioneer Alaskan and Yukon pictures, a veritable [clipping] treasure that he has made available to all. {From Chas. R. Settlemier – Ed. Am mailing some The symposium includes the stories of the papers also C.R.S.} founding of the cities of Skagway, Whitehorse, FAIRBANKS DAILY NEWS MINER Dawson, Fairbanks, Nome – the discoveries and WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 1938 development of the great gold camps of the realm Discovery Day and “Old Yukon” – vigilante days in these frontier towns and The near approach of August 17 – Discovery communities, sagas of the days of fur barons who Day of the great Klondike – revives in the minds of ante-dated the gold seekers – an amazing vanishing Pioneers of Yukon and Alaska the panorama of fact and reminiscences, embellished colorful trail-blazing days of those who in the with many a tale of pleasantry, revelation of ancient Diary 46, 1938 -11th- plots and strategems - and on the whole a August 11 Arranging chap. on Von Roseus plans to secure permanent contribution of priceless value possession of Martha. respecting the opening of the great commonwealths of Yukon and Alaska. [clipping Yukon and Alaska are fortunate to have had one {S.F. Chronicle, Aug. 1938.} of the tireless energy, the ability and the urge to do A Bookman’s to have risen to the occasion and given to the Notebook present generation and to posterity such a splendid By JOSEPH HENRY JACKSON work of lasting value. OLD YUKON. By Hon. James Wickersham. Those who now come as visitors to Alaska and Washington Law Book Co.; $4.00. those who in future years will constitute the JUDGE JAMES WICKERSHAM served, under endless procession of tourists and the future appointment of President McKinley, as U.S. District population that will make the Northland a land of Judge in Alaska from 1900 to 1908, with a district homes and permanent occupation are sure to prize embracing something like 300,000 square miles. and often refer to this volume –“Old Yukon”- as one He has served in six Congresses, has edited the of authority and rare charm – an historic institution Alaska Territory Law Reports, compiled a and achievement. bibliography of Alaskan Literature, which is Diary 46, 1938 -7th – {Maltby} [written in Red Pencil] practically a list of the 10,000 or so items August 7-8 Sunday: The “McKinley” came in today – comprising his own library, and been a frequent Secretary Ickes & his red headed bride were contributor to magazines, always on the subject of aboard. Mr. Willard Maltby, Daniels teacher last the Alaska he knows so well. winter came and will stay with us & visit Daniel for Plainly, the recollections of such a man are a short time. certain to give the reader an inside view of Alaska, -8th - {Maltby} [written in Red Pencil] a personal and intimate picture of that country, Same as usual in the office. We are getting form pioneer days on, which few men could draw. acquainted with Mr. Maltby & Daniel seems happy This volume does just that, in the rambling and to see him. Sunday evening neighbor Heisel took informal style of a man remembering a great past. dinner with us & met Maltby. This afternoon & Lovers of Alaska and those interested in Alaska’s evening the “hiked” up Gold Creek & had a fine past will find in it much to interest them. view of the mountains around its basin * * * * Diary 46, 1938 -9- The AUTHOR, of course is not an anthropologist August 9-10 I am recopying the first pages of my story about or ethnologist, but a man of the law. Yet he has an Catherines mother, and hope to get the story observing eye and a good memory for detail. outlined soon. I am disappointed not to have Because this is so he gives his readers many vivid received the Russian book from the Los Angeles accounts of the life of the Indian, his religious book store. I think Grace asked them to ship it in ceremonies, his funerals, weddings, dances and time to reach me on my birthday – Aug. 24, and legends. In 1903 he and four companions climbed that it will not reach me before that date! Mt. McKinley, called by the Indians Denali, or “The August 10, 1938. High Thing,” and on that trip discovered and Am greatly delighted today to receive by express located the first gold mining claims in the Kantishna the Russian book on the Genealogy of the Russian mining district. Czars and their families which Grace purchased for Here, too, are tales of great dog team men, of me from great dogs, of Carmack’s discovery of gold on the Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Klondike. Her is the saga of Jefferson Randolph secretly to inspect them & give someone – Smith, better known as “Soapy,” one of the early unknown – a report of their values. They are much day racketeers who had learned his tricks in the perturbed – and intend to have Satbler [Stabler],

wild days of Denver and went on up to Skagway to their attorney go with them to find out who and why practice them. And here – perhaps the best Diary 46, 1938 -12th - Americana in the whole book – are all kinds of August 12 Some time about a year ago the West Pub. Co. St. yarns and tall tales told by the old – timers who Paul, announced its intention to issue an Alaska liked to stretch ‘em out and know no limits but Digest of all the Alaska cases deeded and those of their own imaginations. published in the Alaska Reports, 8 vols. the Diary 46, 1938 11 Federal Cases, 2nd issue, and the Supreme Court August 11 [clipping continued] of the U.S! it has been published & copies (5 vols) As a sample, there is, for instance, Dick sent to the District Court Library, Juneau, but Clark Willoughby’s story of the speed with which the big Lewis informed me today that Judge Alexander bears of the region around Glacier Bay could said “it was not worth a woof,” and sent it back to move. Dick, so he said, looked out of his cabin the publishers! On inquiry I find, however that it door one morning to see a huge bear coming has been purchased by Stabler, etc. who praises it straight toward him. He reached up and got his highly as a good book buffalo gun, the same one he had carried on the Diary 46, 1938 12 plains, and waited for the bear to come a little August 12-13 invaluable in An Alaska law library closer. At about fifty yards the bear suddenly saw The court library will not contain it – but the Alaska him and stopped mouth open. Dick fired at that lawyers must do so! instant, his bullet striking the bear along the top of -13th- his tongue and ranging down along his backbone. Jack Hawkes is complaining bitterly that the Alaska Then, as Dick put it, “That b’ar was so almighty Mining Bureau sent its assistant, Rhoam, to inspect quick turning round that when the bullet came out it his Keku claims, secretly – by air-plane last week split the doorjamb within three inches of my face! for some undisclosed mining party or corporation – I’ve always been grateful that he was an old b’ar so at the expense of the Territory – or some one - & lively as he had been, else that bullet would’ve refused to give him or his associates any caught me square in the eye.” information about the matter. His complaint was * * * * made to Lee Griffin – who promised to look into the Like its honored author, this volume of matter & report to the Atty Genl. U.S.A. reminiscences, made up from his diaries and notes Diary 46, 1938 13th continued. over more than a quarter century, will remain a August 13-14 It may result in Stewarts getting an official permanent part of that incredible Alaska he saw reprimand – or not!! and knew. In spite of the fact that the book suffers Attended the Juneau Bar Association at Percy’s a bit from lack of proper editing and is not too well restaurant – a good dinner & nothing else of value. printed, it will be a source volume for many years -14th - for all who want to study the epic story of Alaska, Sunday: Mr. Gerald Fitzgerald, prominent scientist its minerals and its men. in the Geological Survey, U.S. spent two hours in our library today discussing books – he seemed Jack Hawkes & wife, Louis Dyrdahl are much pleased with my “Old Yukon,” a copy of which he excited because they have learned that Stewart, brought along for my autograph. We showed him Ter. Mine inspector etc. and Roahm, his assistant our recent acquisition – the history of the Russian sent a boat to the Keku Mining claims last week Czars – particularly the beautiful colored photographs. Diary 46, 1938 17 August 17-18 Grace, Miss Holbrook & I attended a musical function – publicly given by Mifs Matilda Holtz, a Diary 46, 1938 14, continued young Juneau girl, half breed Indian, who was one August 14 He was also much interested in my recent of the scholars in her classes when Grace taught collection of original letters and other data school (public) in Juneau some few years ago, and belonging to George W. Carmack & his Indian wife enjoyed her songs. She has spent a year last past “Kate” Carmack, a sister of “Skookum Jim” Mason, as the protégé of a famous Italian singer, at Milan & “Kates” daughters. Graphic – Gracie Carmack, Italy, and musical critics declare she has improved who was married off to the brother of Georges in voice culture & singing greatly and may become other wife, Marguerite, who married (?) George a famous singer herself. soon after he had located the rich Klondike gold th -18 - mines in Sept. 1896-8 etc. Marguerite was a Same as usual in the office. natural adventuress having traded with a Writing preliminary Chapter about Catherine. gentleman friend in various parts of the Americas & Diary 46, 1938 18 Australia – as the records show I August 18-19 The “Aleutian,” with a group of tourists came in this Diary 46, 1938 -15th – August 15-16 morning and my former acquaintance in Congress As usual in the office. Femmer came in – friendly, m rd th St. Louis, Mr. W L. Igoe – 63 66 Cong. tourist not to badly disappointed – asked me to cure a called, with his wife & spent a few minutes – defect in his will be rewriting it. Working on Ms. renewing acquaintance between us men. Sec. of about Catherine 1st preliminary chapters, etc. Int. Harold L. Ickes, is in S.E. Alaska and will be in Cards from Dr. Chase, Rep. candidate for Ter. Juneau soon. I do not remember ever to have met Treas. Answered friendly. th him. -16 - th -19 - I have this day examined vol 1, of the West Nothing new, I am writing a letter to Lulu Fairbanks Publishing Cos. Digest of Alaska law decisions, to be read at the sourdough Reunion at Portland and find that it contains a full copy of the “A Brief Sept. 1-3, to excuse my absence. Sold a copy of Resource of the Judicial System and Courts of 00 my Bibliography to the U.S. “Spencer” - $4 Alaska Territory” which the Company asked me to th Diary 46, 1938 -20 - prepare by their August 20 Many purchasers of “Old Yukon” come in to have Diary 46, 1938 16 me autograph their books – which I do gladly. Mr. August 16-17 letter dated June 10, 1938. It is printed just as I Maltby and Daniel Vrooman will leave for the south wrote it and is signed by my name at the and home on Monday morning early. conclusion, an the front pages of Vol. 1 It may be Luckily Grace gave Daniel and his boy friends a that is the reason Judge Alexander refused to buy farewell party yesterday – at 5 oclock. p.m. Daniel it for the Court Library!! He would. Copies of the is expostulating about having to leave Aunt Grace’s Digest are in the libraries of Stabler, Faulkner & to go to California which of course pleases her. other attorneys but not in the court library. She grieves at his going as much as he does at the -17th - necessity which compels him to go with Mr. Maltby, 52 years ago today George W. Carmack, Skookum whom he loves too. Jim and Tagish Charley, discovered gold in st Diary 46, 1938 -21 - quantity on the Bonanza Creek, one of the south August 21-2 Daniel and his tutor Mr. Maltby left on the midnight forks of the Klondike river and started the greatest (4 oclock this morning) for California where he will Stampede in the North. go to School near his mother in Los Angeles. Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 When he, Grace & Dolores left for the same place the meeting of the Int. Reunion of Yukon two years ago I had a hard chill that night & the Sourdoughs at Portland, Oregon on Sept. 1-3. I same thing occurred yesterday & last night. My wrote a letter to Loomis, President – also regretting friends said it was a nervous chill resulting from etc. and introducing Ruth – as an Alaskan Pioneer sympathy – that he had to go. They were & piano virtuoso a la Ed Mathews of the old Flora mistaken, my arggnosis [prognosis] was – Smoking Dora Days too much! too many Cigars! Diary 46, 1938 -25th - -22nd- August 25 Same as usual in the office. Nothing. Finished my silly letters to Lulu Fairbanks Sent a copy of Old Yukon “To the University of to the Int. Roughneck Reunion. Alaska, with my compliments,” at the special Diary 46, 1938 -22- request of Mifs Meals, the Secretary of that August 22 Received a letter and a package of old institution – written, of course, at the command of newspapers, which I bought from Rev. James Prof. Bunnell – who did not sign the letter Condit, in charge of the Sheldon Jackson Museum Studying Catherine 1. and find it interesting. I am at Sitka. He sent me 110 copies of the old Alaskan outlining the preliminary chapters – for they are – 1885 & some later issues of the Review from fictional – but I think clearly based on facts: Juneau of about 1894 – charged me 10 cents an Historical data will follow – in large part through, as issue – they are duplicates of the original files the in an history must must be assumed. I think it is museum has left but I needed them to complete my interesting proof of the earliest history relating to slim files. I sent him the price he agreed on & the discovery of Russ. Am. offered to buy all his duplicates at the same price. Diary 46, 1938 -26- He has some good duplicates which I need. August 26-27 A Mr. & Mrs. Henning – he is related to Allens law Diary 46, 1938 -23rd- firm – and had some part in settling the Est. of August 23-24 My old friend Mike Sullivan coma in to see me Graces brother Henry – Daniels father is in town. I yesterday. He had just come in from Yakataga asked them to dinner etc. at home tonight. beach where he has long – since 1919, been, Warrack advised compromise with Eli Howard working on his oil claims. Says the Companies claim for $2000.00 have had their experts there for several weeks and -27th - that they approve the value!! Much mail about “Old Yukon” coming in – a fine August 24th – 1938. letter from my publisher J.T. ONeill, Mgr. West My 81st Birthday. Pub. Co. with a check for $427- royalty for June! A beautiful summer day: Letters, papers, etc. from Also letter from Winden, my agent at Tacoma with Ruth, who has been having the time of her young an offer for my old home on C. St. life with “Old Yukon.” She sent us a copy of the Diary 46, 1938 27 Tacoma paper with a August 27-28 low but satisfactory for the Tax is amount – Diary 46, 1938 24 delinquent for about $4400! – I think I will sell – a August 24 her sitting in a chair with her shapely legs most balance to me of about $2000 – though the place prominent in the foreground. The looked nice, of cost me $10,000 - 40 years ago! ONeill also sent course, but she seemed to think not – also some a group of friendly reviews & We – Grace & I, - copies of a fine advertising card she had made to have caught up with correspondence. Henning be posted in places where “Old Yukon” could be (lawyer from Seattle) & wife had dinner with us last purchased for $400 etc etc. night Grace & I spent the evening in writing letters to Bar association dinner – quiet. Ruth, Lulu, Chas. Settlemier, ONeill, etc etc. about -28th - Sunday – answering letters, & writing preliminary Diary 46, 1938 1 chapters on Catherine I – in which I am much September 1 Recd telegram from AW Wadley[?], Tacoma, interested – working out Serfdom. saying, “Secured reduction of interest on taxes you Diary 46, 1938 29th will receive eighteen hundred dollars less forty August 29 I am growing very impatient about Graces control dollars abstracting one hundred fifty commission of my income! She demands money to pay the terms three hundred cash, twenty dollars monthly Expenses of her management of Daniels Estate. I interest six per cent purchased (?) to pay taxes paid her $300. out of the note we jointly made to seems very cheap but buildings in bad condition the Behrends Bank for $500. & she paid it to Jack what shall we do.” Hawkes on his mining scheme at Keku, against my I answered saying “When will Washington tax judgment & written protest! The other $200, she laws bar and end my title to Broadway lots and took to pay her expenses to Los Angeles & return house stop answer night letter collect.” I seems with Daniel, her nephew. Darrell sent me $150, “cheap” to me also, and I want more information! which I used to pay my expenses to Seattle & Diary 46, 1938 -2nd- back. I paid her way out of it to Seattle & she paid September 2-3 Same as usual in the office. my way back Studying serfdom in Esthonia and Livonia – Russia Diary 46, 1938 29 – Reading “Livonia” London, 1701 – printed for August 29 out of her funds, & the collections from the sale of Peter Buck bookseller – 1701. Check for $1000 “Old Yukon,” etc. Today she demanded & took a payable to BM Behrends Bank. on Note. check from me of $5600 because she said I was -3rd- indebted to her in that amount for payment of oil bill Bar Assoc. luncheon. Nothing new. for our home and an equal amount for interest on Same as yesterday. Grover C. Winn asks me to mortgage on my house back of the Presbyterian write short rejoinder to Tony Dimonds Answer to church, which she collected. my appeal against Unicameral Legislative She then twitted me with having paid my expenses Referendum!! I think the more one beats the dead back from Seattle – which Darrell sent me the carcass of an animal money to pay and 250, I collected from Winden. Diary 46, 1938 3 Hereafter I will pay the bills against the House September 3 the more offensive it smells. Hon. Earnest expense & keep my own accounts - & let her deep Gruening was at my house calling for an hour & he her accounts with the Bishop Apartments. Darrell says after a months touring the Territory that in his is disgusted with me! for giving up so easy judgment the “Unicameral Referendum will be Diary 46, 1938 -30th – defeated – that even the prominent Democrats are August 30-31 Working in the office as usual not favorable to it! So I think I will not write any Nothing new. I am still angry, but there is little I response to Dimonds speech in its support!! In my can do about it. talk with Gruening I found him interested in the Autographed “Old Yukon” copy for Mrs. Marie Lincoln totem pole on Tongass island – also said Drake and bought a copy of her new book” he would ask Zimmerman U.S. Ind Affairs to call Recd. a box of cigars from Joe. Wartl[?] with a &let me talk to him about Indian land case & liquor birthday card. He is in Skagway. Writing a last of laws!! my preliminary chapters on “Martha,” Catherine 1.” Diary 46, 1938 -4th – -31st September 4-6 Mrs. Tupper, Graces friend – old school teacher at Finished my preliminary sketch of Betrothal of Juneau – now in Fairbanks, took dinner with us & Martha – birth of her child – death of C. for just then they - Grace & Mrs. T. went to the theatre. I reading did not go on account of my eyes. Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 -5th – about these matters – but will probably be elected Labor Day – nobody at work. notwithstanding!! They are all in favor of Parade & a tune by the band!! Roosevelts Appropriations – which is holding them In the office as usual. Studying Catherine I, etc. together – they divide on principles but agree on -6th - appropriations! We will see tomorrow (Election Paid ½ my city taxes today $112.90 Day) which is the winning horse! Of course I will “ $10000 on Note for 500. at Behrends Bank vote the straight Republican ticket – for principles Recd. copies of Juneau, newspapers from Condit against – appropriations, - the latter will win from Sitka. Offered $2000. compromise case though, I fear. Warrack v Howard. Winn will submit to defendant. Diary 46, 1938 -11th 12th Diary 46, 1938 7th September 11- Sunday – writing letters. Grace does the reading & 12 September 7-9 In the office as usual – offered to compromise the writing. I only articulate, for my sight is growing case of Eli Howard vs Warrack & Ins Co. for dimmer – I fear I must quit smoking cigars! I will $200000 Winn & Roden agreed to write to Howard consult Dr. Dawes tomorrow. at Sitka for his approval. -12th - -8th – Mr. D.A. Rockne (spell it ) of the US. Same as usual in the office. Dept. of Agri. called and gave me an interesting Studying Russian authorities – books, about Diary (Record book) kept for the season of 1914 by Catherine 1. the captain of the fishing vessel called – I think – -9th - Unimak, belonging to the Kasilof Cannery – found Nothing new, except additional correspondence it on the site of the abandoned cannery. My visitor about “ Old Yukon.” Autographing books. – No is a sensible man and acquainted with the court no business – politics growing warm. Matanuska farming camp, says it is a “dust bowl”. Dimonds speech tonight small crowd – dull Diary 46, 1938 13th meeting. September 13- Election Day. I am very much interested in 14 Diary 46, 1938 10th President Roosevelts fight to defeat Senator September 10 Dimond meeting last night reported poor. The Tydings, of Maryland & Senator George of “Empire” giving him but light support. He went to Georgia, because they will not yield their judgment Skagway on days boat to hold a meeting there. to his in his “New Deal” ideas. Hope they beat the Republicans doing but little. Al. White nothing! President’s purge! Tame campaign. We Alaskans are interested in our local election. Bar Assoc. luncheon today: quiet. I can look on quietly, for I am not a contestant. “Jack” Hellenthal, Chairman Democratic meeting -14th - last night made the principal address - & today Tydings, Senator from Maryland seems to have spoke at the Luncheon against the adoption of the won his contest by President Roosevelt who fought adoption of the Civil Code, approved by the U.S. his primary endorsement, because the Senator Sup. Court for Alaska, at his meeting last night would not support some of his wild Dimond approved the Unicameral Scheme, & Diary 46, 1938 14 declared in September 14 ideas set forth in the “New Deal” craze. The Diary 46, 1938 10 Democrats seem to have won their entire ticket in September 10 favor of Abolishing fish traps. Capt. Davis, Alaska at yesterdays election. Too much public candidate for Legislature on ticket with Dimond money spent for “relief” – a new form of bribery of spoke against Unicameral bill & in favor of fish the voters!! However the “Unicameral Referendum traps! The Democrats are divided & quarreling put out by Tony Dimond was defeated. Its purpose was to abolish the Territorial Senate and leave us the appropriation made by the Legislature. The with a single House in the Legislature. I think my returns of election show a Democratic – New Deal “Appeal” pamphlet to the voters printed & widely victory. Happily the Unicameral Referendum was spread over the Territory had force in the result! defeated! I am glad of that. Dr. Jenney’s funeral today. Diary 46, 1938 -19th – Diary 46, 1938 15th September 19- In the office as usual. Grover C. Winn offers to 20 September 15 Wrote an autograph in Mrs. Mary C. Godders “Old compromise the case of Howard vs Warrack & Ins. Yukon,” and a letter to the County Clerk of Oconto Co. – Workmans Compensation case, for $2200: County, Wis. inquiring for the relatives of Jack, – Warrack offers $2000.- I will submit compromise to John, A. Sargent! Hanson & Rowland, Ins. Agents Tacoma by Senators Tydings, of Maryland, & Senator George, telegraph tonight! asking instructions. of Georgia, seem to have defeated the “Purge” of -20th - President Roosevelt and were reelected Answer from Hansen & Rowland, Tacoma, about notwithstanding his denunciation of both as case of Howard vs Warrack & Ins. Co. inquiring “traitors” to his “New Deal” policies. “Advise when Howard v Warrack will be tried” I also look upon the Defeat of the “Dimond answer “after next November 15th” & S[?] Referendum” to abolish the Territorial Senate in Letter from Dr. Chase, Cordova, saying Alaska as a personal victory based upon my Diary 46, 1938 20 “Appeal” against it! dated Jany 1938. September 20 citizens there want my opinion about what to do Diary 46, 1938 -16th – about notice by Copper River & N.W. Ry. Co. September 16- Letter to Chas. T. Peterson, Tacoma about value of abandonment of that railroad Octo. 15th Have 17 my Tacoma House looked into the question carefully and have written Telegram from Harrison & Rowland, Tacoma, Chase to await my next letter in which I will advise asking for 3 copies of Alaska Insurance law – sent them fully to appeal to the President, Sec. Interior, them last night by mail. Atty Genl. Gov. Troy, Delegate Dimond etc. to Made out papers for my old Fairbanks friend, purchase the railroad and rehabilitate it for future Charlie Sparm, to enable him to get a pension as use by U.S. Govt etc etc. I think a scheme of that an Alaska pioneer! He was one of the first kind can be worked out successfully and I will prospectors on Dome Creek, when it was first prepare a petition covering the plan – which may staked. attract the Kennecott Copper Co. & I will undertake -17th - it!! Constitution Day! Attended the Bar Association Diary 46, 1938 -Sept 20th – day! Dimond was there & was treated friendly. I September 20- Earl Knight & wife in town. I have invited them to 21 asked about Mrs. Dimond & sent Mrs. W’s lunch tomorrow – they want to examine my library! compliments, etc. which were reciprocated. which I am anxious to have them do. Diary 46, 1938 -18th - -21st- September 18 Sunday. In library as usual. Letter from Ruth with Long, fine letter from Ruth giving me the story of many clippings from papers about the proceedings her trip to the Pioneer meeting at Portland, - with a of the Pioneer’s meeting at Portland. picture of “Skiff Mitchell, Ruth on his right and Lulu Grace reads the magazines to me. Fairbanks on his left. Telegram from Darrell Juneau Territorial Fair lasted 3 days – nothing but advising me to sell my old Tacoma home for $3000 buying tickets for automobile, & many lesser – less taxes & expenses – net about $1900! I will objects – no fruits or vegetables – no cultural do so for the Taxes etc will take it if I do not! exhibits – just a fake exhibition by which to spend Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Diary 46, 1938 21st continued Diary 46, 1938 27 September 21- Earl Knight & wife lunch with us at our home & September 27- call at his office this afternoon on that subject. 22 28 inspect my library! They spent the afternoon with Later, Governor says he has no satisfactory us talking books, examining & inspecting rare answer to the C.R. & N.W. Ry problem. Had a talk books, old papers, etc. They are both very with Hesse, Ter. Road Supt. who wants something pleasant & we enjoyed the visit very much. done at once, but does not know what can be -22nd done! In the office as usual. Reading many histories of -28th - Peter the Great for data about Catherine 1st Writing a Brief on the Right of the Kennecott Finished Peter the Great by Voltaire by Smallette Copper Corporation to abandon its Copper River & which is the best authority of its kind on that N.W. railroad & abandon that country. I think it is particular subject. not lawful for them to do so and Roden agrees with Letter to Theo. Kettleson – Sitka about Warrack me in that judgment. The people of Cordova are case by Howard. excited about the matter & ask my advice & Diary 46, 1938 22d-continued assistance. September 22- Sent telegram last night to Winden, Tacoma, Diary 46, 1938 -29th – 25 accepting offer of Windens client to buy my old September 29- In the office as usual – working on Cordova Ry. October 1 Tacoma home for terms suggested in letter to inquiry! Darrell! -30th – -23rd- Same as yesterday – on Cordova C.R. & N.W. Ry Same as usual in the office. Nothing by telegram Co. plan to abandon the Railway. Preparing from Winden about sale of house. Letter about History of the origin, building, operating, by the Vaith[?], Tacoma will. Kennecott Copper Corporation. -24th- October 1. In the office: Judge Alexander rendered 3 opinions Same as yesterday. Dan Kennedy my old packer in court friend from Fairbanks came to Juneau, today, to Juneau Bar Assoc. luncheon Percy’s. consult me about recovering compensation for his -25th- land at McKinley Park Entrance Have known Dan Sunday. Reading etc. Catherine 1. 25 vols – for 30 years & know his land location, etc. Am arranging data. consulting Diary 46, 1938 -26th – Diary 46, 1938 1 September 26- In the office as usual. Arranging Account with October 1-4 with him at my office tonight. He has a patent for 27 Femmer Case. the land taken into the Park by Act of Congress, -27th - same as Stubbs. Femmer will not consult with or talk about my 2-3. interest in the city case – he is broke & cant pay Working on Cordova Railroad matter. Dan me the fees for printing Records, etc. in case. Am Kennedy took dinner with us last night & is coming gathering data about the proposed abandonment this evening to look at my Yukon pictures. by the Kennecott Copper Company of its C.R & -4th - N.W. railroad from Cordova to Kennecott. I will call Completed the Cordova Ry Rate & Abandonment on Gov Troy & talk with him about the U.S. taking matter, to the close of the Kennecott Copper over – buying the abandoned line – bridges etc. Corporation Annual Reports close their records and probably rehabilitating it as a wagon vs with turning their Alaska Ry & Copper reports into a railroad for public use. Am to Contraction with the Braden & Utah Copper Co. Diary 46, 1938 4 Diary 46, 1938 6 October 4 at the conclusion of their Annual for 1920. I October 6-7 to the President, Congress, Sec. of the Interior, suggested a continuation of the Cordova case to Attorney General, Delegate Dimond, Interstate cover the abandonment of the Richardson Commerce Commission & Governor Troy, etc. Highway, and the connection with the Alaska -7th - Railroad and McKinley National Park transportation Wannamaker, Indian minister from Angoon, Dick, a etc. but Roden, who has copied & corrected my big fine looking Indian and two other Indians with Ms. to 1920, thinks it is immaterial to do so – them came in to talk about bringing a suit against probably it is but it is exceeding interesting as the U.S. for injuries to these people in October showing the interests of Birch in the Alaska SS. 1882, by turning the Indian town of Hutchinoo Co. and the C.B. & Q Ry & the Northern Pacific “Bears Fort,” by Captain Merriman & with the Alaska Ry & the McKinley Park Diary 46, 1938 7 Transportation to Fairbanks – and their control of October 7-8 U.S. soldiers – Marines etc. in 1882. I told them I all freight & passenger rates in the Fairbanks would not take charge of the case but would assist region! Henry Roden, whom they employed as their Diary 46, 1938 -5th - attorney in my presence and at my suggestion. October 5 Concluded examination of all papers and They told him information as given to them by their statements made and delivered to me by Dan L. old people who were present at the attack on the Kennedy in relation to his claim for inquiry on the village where all their boats - cairns – winter food United States in taking into the Mount McKinley supplies, etc. were burned. Roden will talk the National Park of his land – 5 acres - & refusing to matters over with Dimond, the delegate to allow him to do business there as he had arranged congress & write to them what he says. to do etc. -8th - Also finished my statement in relation to the In the office – doing nothing! Reading Americana proposed abandonment by the U.S. Interstate catalogues: about prices on Alaskana books Commerce Commission on the application of the Diary 46, 1938 -9th – Copper River & Northwestern Ry Co. with letter October 9-11 Sunday – working in library. mentioning Roden as assistant & send him Brief & 10th the letter today. It has been In the office as usual – working on a letter to Dr. Diary 46, 1938 5 Gruening, Director in Interior Department on October 5-6 a weeks hard job – and I am glad to have it ended Territorial matters – about Cordova River & N.W. and off my mind. I have used my file of the Annual Ry abandonment & connection of Alaska SS. Co. Reports of the Kennecott Copper Corporation in officials & Kennecott Copper Corporation influence the preparation of the Statement of Facts 1915- over Alaska Ry. Mt. McKinley National Park etc. 1926, & information from Parks[?] Manual on -11th- Industrials & Railroads – 1936. Secretary of Hanson & Rowland, Tacoma Agent -6th - Ins. Co.’s in the case of Howard v Warrack, et. al. Finished the Supplemental Brief in the Copper called – went to consult with Warracks River & Northwestern Ry Co. brief in opposition to Diary 46, 1938 -12th- its application to abandon the road, and sent it with October 12 Mr. Zimmerman, Claude M. Hirst, & a letter to Dr. Will H. Chase, Cordova asking them secretary called. Talked over Indian Affairs – to get it signed by the officials of the Chamber of Liquor question. Gruening & Totem poles etc. Commerce by protocol and printed copies sent Friendly call – nothing else. C.W. Jamieson, agent of Hansen & Rowland, Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Insurance Agents Tacoma, Wash. is here in N.P.R. Alaska SS. Co. & Great Northern Ry – conference with John W. Chappell, organizer of the security for loan of $25,000. & exploration?!! Alaska General Insurance Co. conferring about Diary 46, 1938 16th continued. mutual relations between the Alaska Co. & English October 16-18 Letter to Arthur G. Thompson, Anchorage, asking Co. for reinsurance of Alaska Insurance Co. for data about Ohtson, Supt. Alaska Govt, Railroad business. I was able to bring them together – to blocking street to prevent Cook Inlet Tr. Co. from talk about their mutual interests. th landing freight from Seattle via Independent S.S. Diary 46, 1938 -13 - line for Anchorage merchants. October 13 Chappell & Jamieson are yet talking in my office -17th – about their matters. The latter is also engaged in Working on Cordova matter. an effort to compromise the case of Howard vs -18th - Warrack and the Ins. Co which Jamieson Alaska Purchase Day, 1867. Working on Cordova represents. matter. Collector Connors gave me the amt. of Invited Jamieson and the Mr. & Mrs. Chappell to Copper shipped from Alaska to end of 1937 - dinner. Jamieson is a student of History $245,116,715. Cost or Selling Prices?? specializes on Aaron Burr & is a book collector on Diary 46, 1938 -19th - that line. The Chappells & Jamiesons had dinner October 19 Same as yesterday. Talked with Ike Taylor about with us & spent the evening in the library. The men rates over Richardson Highway. Les Rox & Jack talked over reinsurance etc & we enjoyed the visit. th Lang, union men came in – they are opposed to Diary 46, 1938 14 - the C.I.O. radical gang!! October 14 In the office – conference with Jamieson in re case Jack Hawkes, George Kerin & their guide, of Howard vs Warrack & Ins. Co. Jamieson sought an Indian who lives at Douglas, returned from a to secure compromise & settlement of above case moose hunt to the Taku (Alaska) flats, this – but did not. He advises me to settle – not more afternoon, having been detained there for two than $1500 – less if possible & in case no weeks by storms, etc. without finding moose or any settlement that Robertson, who has long been the game – they had a bad time –and glad to be home local agent for the Ins. Co. will try the case before again. jury etc. Jamieson will leave for home (Tacoma) Diary 46, 1938 -20- on boat this evening. I am studying letter to October 20-22 In office as usual. Working on Cordova C.R. & Gruening about abandonment of C.R. & NW Ry & N.W. Ry. Co abandonment, etc. Connors Collector other wagon roads of whole. Customs assisting me with data about Copper Diary 46, 1938 -15- output from Kennecott Mines. Ike Taylor gave me October 15-16 In the office – Hon. Bill Hesse Ter. Road data, maps etc. same. Commissioner came in to talk Cordova Ry matter -21st- over he examined the copy of a statement written Studying import[?] and Joint[?] of the case of Keku by him at Fairbanks some years ago, showing Nor. Mining Case, reading authorities & find it Pac. Ry. Co. Great Northern & Alaska S.S. Co. had interesting. secured a chattel mortgage for $25,000 loaned to c -22- the Mt. M Kinley Park Trans. Co. Galen etc. for Same as yesterday. Conference with Hawkes – stock in that Co. he said he had written the data! I will get me a copy of Hosfords notice posted on will write to Charles E. Taylor for copy etc. th Keku claims. -16 - Diary 46, 1938 Oct. 23rd 1938. Sunday. Wrote letters to Chas. E. Taylor, October 23-24 Sunday. Worked in home library with Grace Fairbanks, for copy of Chattel Mortgage for of studying my Alaska Library – prices of books, etc. settle this one without controversy. Recd. copy of for sale to buyer! papers from Forest Service Bureau in matter of the Jack Hawkes gave me copy of Capt. Hofstad & claim of Jack Hawks, for injuries in his accident a sons Notice of Non-Liability posted on Keku claims year ago. He is pre- – dated Nov. 13, 1937, posted on claims. Diary 46, 1938 27 Oct 24, 1938. October 27 paring affidavits for presentation to Dimond for use Called R.E. Robertson about Howard v Warrack in making a claim to Congress, etc. etc. He promises to call and confer about his My old friend E.W. Griffin the Sec. of the appearance in case with me for defendants. Territory, and just now, the Acting Governor, in the Diary 46, 1938 -24-continued absence of Gov. Troy to spend a month or more in October 24-26 Turned the papers in Howard vs Warrack v Ins. Co. California, spent an hour in the office talking over over to R.E. Robertson, for further work. “old times” on the Yukon. Griffin was years ago a -25th- big man, as round as a barrel, as big as a Called on Wellman Holbrook, U.S. Forest Service hogshead. He is now in his old age a small man – office in regard to the injury of Jack Hawkes, and but a happy, friendly spirit, and beloved, as he was claim, copies of records, advice, etc. He will make on the Yukon by all who know him! a fine character copies of original papers for me. Dr. Dawes I am very fond of him - he is a splendid character. reports that his lungs adhering to his ribs – great Diary 46, 1938 -Oct. 27th continued- loss of weight – etc Will ask for medical October 27 Assisting in preparation of affidavits in John C.B. examination soon. Hawks case – applying for damages in Congress -26th- for injury while working for Forest Service Same in the office, also Dentist Good teeth, but need filling with [clipping] Diary 46, 1938 26 OFFICIAL POLL October 26 concrete once in a while. Talked with Dr. Dawes SHOWS BIG VOTE today – said he would confer with Dr. Coffee, about ON SEPTEMBER 13 the case & make affidavit that Hawkes has Sullivan, Republican, Beats permanent injuries resulting form his accident while Laiblin in Second by employed by the Forest Service! Hope to get the 24-Vote Margin matter before Hon. A.J. Dimond, Delegate when he A total of 12,581 votes were cast in the general arrives in Juneau this week. election this year as compared with 13,702 two Grace & I had dinner with Mr. & Mrs. H.L. Faulkner years ago, a presidential year, according to the last night. Present Mr. & Mrs. Bowen & Mr. & Mrs. official canvass completed by the canvassing Trevor Davis – good dinner & singing by Mrs. board today. Bowen who has a fine voice & a pleasant manner. There was no change in the results as Diary 46, 1938 -27th - announced in the previous unofficial returns. October 27 Same as usual in the office. I prepared and mailed Closest race was in the Second Division where to D.B. Femmer today a compromise offer to settle Leroy George Laiblin, Democrat, for a seat in the our accounts on a payment to me of $111. try Senate by 24 votes. Sullivan was the only bring a partial payment to me of the sums I Republican elected. advanced at his request as cost of appeal in the Results for Territorial candidates were: For case of Femmer vs. City of Juneau, et. al. cannot Delegate-Dimond, Democrat, 8,406; Grigsby, get him to meet me with the papers, books etc. and Independent, 2,160; White, Republican, 1,722; since I may never bring another case I want to Treasurer-Chase, Republican, 3,618; Olson, Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Democrat, 7,846. Supp. List of Alaskana books in my library First Division For Divisional officers, the official results show: Diary 46, 1938 -30th – First Division-Roden, Democrat, elected to Senate, October 30- Sunday. Grace & I worked all day on List of Alaska 2,568; Stabler, 2,079, for House, Anderson, November 1 books & prices since publication of Bibliography in elected, 2,369; Barnes, 1,909; Davis, elected, 1924. We find some rare old books in our lists of 2,406; Foster, 1,802; McCall, 346; McCormick, Wash. Or & Cal. elected, 2,728; Price, 1,615; Walker, elected, Attended Movie Theater & heard Grace Moore sing 2,111; Wasvick 568; Westfall, 479; Wilson, 1,519. & play her fine work: She is a beautiful girl & a Second Division sweet singer. Second: Senate-Laiblin, 546; Sullivan, elected, -31st- 570; House-Anderson, 198, Bloomquist, 88; L.C. Hess from Fairbanks called – we spent a Cremer, 414; Dowd, elected, 584; Lyng, elected, pleasant hour or two talking over early days in 749; Martin, elected, 711; Porter, elected, 546; Fairbanks. Seidenverg, 225; Taggert, 498. November 1, 1938. Third Division In the office as usual. Jack Hawks Third: Senate – Bingle, 1,288; Hofman, elected, Diary 46, 1938 1 2,160; House – Andressen, 1,070; Burleigh, 954; November 1 Carlson, 826; Coffey, elected, 2,098; Drager, papers – copies of statement about his injuries elected, 1,702; Elvig, 707; McCutcheon, elected, while working for the Forest Service – all returned 1,751; Nafsted, 845; Smith, elected, 1,811; by me – with Jacks approval – to Wellman Snodgrass, 1,052. Holbrook, asst. in Service. Jack reports that Fourth Division Brown, of United Foods Co. trying to borrow from Fourth: Senate-Joy, 1,021; LaBoyteaux, Behrends Bank sum of $1000.00 of his expenses elected,1,568; House-Colbert, 1,072; Fowler, 812; to and from New York, in relation to Keku Mines – Gordon, elected, 1,502; Johnston, 1,102; Knuppe, will let him know tomorrow morning!! 920; Lander, elected, 1,321; Rogge, elected, Preparing affidavits for Dr Dawes signature as to 1,521; Spencer, elected, 1,304. Hawks injuries, etc. The one-house referendum was defeated over Mr. John H. Chappell, who is organizing the the Territory by a vote of 6,517 to 4,931, losing in General Ins. Co. of Alaska came in – reports just all Divisions, except the Third, where it carried arrived from Tacoma, in conference with Jamieson 1,686 to 1,633 is confident of early success! Diary 46, 1938 Diary 46, 1938 th Nov. 1, 1938 -28 – November 1 October 28-29 Busy in the office. Prepared list & prices of U.S. Working to get Dr. L.P. Dawes to sign affidavit Stat. L. from 1789 to 1931, for my supp. List of supporting Jack Hawks application for Alaskana – also lists & prices of Session Laws. Congressional relief for injuries by Forest Service Senate Journals & House Journals for the same accident in last December. Grace & I work 3 hours use. Grace will insert them in her lists which she is every night after dinner on Supp. Alaska books etc. now preparing. – descriptions & prices. Same old grind in the -29th - office. Same as usual in office. She is getting a dinner ready for Luther Hess, W.E. Lawyer Luncheon. Prepared list of Charters, Griffin & his sister, & Mrs. Judge Paine of Paine Constitutions & Organization Laws – 7 vols. and Fox Farm, near Keku island Mines for tomorrow Digest of International Law (Alaska) 8 vols for evening! Diary 46, 1938 -2nd – Diary 46, 1938 -8th - November 2-3 Jack Hawkes & his son “Jacky,” leave Juneau on November 8 Election Day – in the States. the SS. North Sea,” enroute O.J. Hatland – Killisnoo Herring oil & Guano plant, -3rd- Samuel G. Johnson, Angoon headman, came They did not leave. The bank refused to loan yesterday – today- to consider sale of plant to Brown – United Food Executive – the $1000. Johnson & Angoon natives. Hatland owns plant: necessary to pay the expenses of the trip to S.F. Johnson & Angoon Indians want to purchase. I N.Y. & return. Brown then undertook to borrow it have advised conferences with Hirst, head of from Mrs. Perelle – who first promised Brown the Bureau of Ind. Affairs & Hawksworth, assistant – loan, but at the last moment changed her mind, so Date of meeting arranged for 2 oclock p.m. today. – they did not leave!! Conference with Hirst, Johnson, & Bureau of Indian A good dinner – good company – Governor Griffin, Affairs – they say they must wait for Special Agent his sister Senator Hess, Mrs. Paine & ourselves Hoggerty to return form Montana, and his action Diary 46, 1938 -4th – Diary 46, 1938 8 November 4-5 Grace’s dinner last night went off successfully – it November 8-9 in organizing the Angoon Corporation, under U.S. was a friendly party of old friends & long laws. Hatland made contract in writing to pay me acquaintances & enjoyable 10% My eyes are growing dim – but I am not to be blind -9th - – my right eye is without a lens, but oct has General election throughout the U.S. shows many provided a lens with a good glass. gains for the Republican party – discouragement [Wickersham’s writing is getting more difficult to for the Roosevelt – New Deal. It is a set back – not read probably because he cannot see to write.] a defeat for President Roosevelt. He deserved the -5th - set back – and it will cause him to be more careful Saturday – Bar Luncheon. Arnold, Hess & Archie – it may be the forerunner of defeat in 1940! The Shiels attended. people are not satisfied with his terrific Court calendar called this morning. expenditures & leaning toward Socialism. nothing new. The American Federal Union & the Diary 46, 1938 9 C.I.O. radical group striking – fighting each other, November 9 Some of his ideas and laws are good – his and giving much trouble to people building houses. administration bad! He is a clever and fair Gross, Krause, etc. other builders statesman – his politics and politicians – a failure. Diary 46, 1938 -6th – Hon A.J. Dimond called in my office and I talked November 6-7 Sunday – working at home in library. about the bill permitting Dan Kennedy to bring a -7- suit in the Court of Claims for damages in including My client O.J. Hatland from Kilisnoo came to Dans tract of 5 acres of patented land in the Mt. consult me about sale of his oil & Herring meal McKinley National Park. He agreed to introduce a plant at Kilisnoo to Sam Young & other Indian bill to enable Dan to bring his suit in damages for associates through the Bureau of Indian Affairs – his land and other losses and will send me a copy will call tomorrow morning at 10 am. of the Duke Stubbs case as guide for Dans case Consultation with Mike Monagle about further Diary 46, 1938 -10-12.- consultation with Hon. A.J. Dimond – on SS November 10-14 Working in the office every day. tonight. Wrote memo, for Dimond to be delivered 11th was Armistice day – holiday by Monagle – about Dan Kennedys land in Mt I worked in the library. McKinley National Park -13th- Attended Attorneys Luncheon. Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 Much interest in proposed new Civil procedure for all my work & expenses in the case against the Rules prepared by the Sup. Ct. of the U.S. city. It was accepted as a settlement – not as fair Attorneys do not agree about adopting them & compensation for services & money, which I Judge Alexander has written to the other District expended in the case. Judges – Meeting of Attorneys agreed on when Still working on the C.R & N.W. Application for the Legislature meets in Juneau about Jany 1st. abandonment of that Ry. right of way! -14th - Diary 46, 1938 -19th – I am busy in studying the matter November 19-20 Saturday. Luncheon at the Juneau Bar Assoc. Diary 46, 1938 14 crowded by the 3 new lawyers just admitted November 14-16 of the Application of the C.R & N.W. Ry Co. to Nothing new – just talking and good time. Am abandon its Copper River Ry Route & abandon its finishing up my letter to Gruening Director line – it will be a bad blow to that region from Territories in Dept of the Interior. Cordova to Kennecott and throw 2000 miners, Jack Hawks & son Jackie left last night for N.Y. in railroad men & Cordovans out of work and drive re the Keku Island mines. them to paupers relief. I am writing the outline of -20th - the facts to Hon. Ernest H. Gruening Director of Sunday. Spent the day in my office studying the Division of Territories in the Department of Interior. C.R & NW Ry case – it gives me trouble on -15th – account of the $25,000. which was given or loaned Same as yesterday – to Gruening. to the offices of the Mt McKinley Park -16- Transportation Same study of Copper River Ry matter. Diary 46, 1938 20 Much trouble with my eyes, but stay on the job November 20 Co. case by the Northern Pacific Ry – by the Great longer hours. Northern Ry & the Alaska SS. Co. presumably by Diary 46, 1938 -17th - Stephen Birch, director for each of those November 17 Same as yesterday Jack Hawks & son have companies – in 1929 & represented by preferred arranged to go to New York, father to present Keku stock which the Companies accepted later – but I mining claims to Zinc promoters young Jack to cannot find out the whole facts – who – why & what consult physician about some bodily ailment. for – I lack proof but have plenty of suspicions – When father was hurt a year ago in falling from same in prior cases – where poor Captain Jarvis, Forest Service crates & boxes on the Pacific Coast who committed suicide in Seattle after being – Alaska SS. Co dock he received 4 broken ribs – indicted for a Kennecott-Alaska Syndicate offense. when injury healed the casing of his lungs grew I am not satisfied that another crime is not hidden attached to a broken rib & he is left in a dangerous behind this Railroad matter of $25,000. but no condition & must go to a surgeon for advice. Dr. proof is at hand – though I have a suspicion. I Dawes says his injury is permanent & dangerous. think I will write what I know to Dr. Ernest L. Forest Service officials fear the same. Gruening, Director of the Dept. of the Interior & let Diary 46, 1938 -18th – him work out the facts. My eye sight is so bad that November 18 Letter of abandonment of the CR & NW Ry is a I cannot follow the lines in this record – nor write fraud – gives me much concern – for that reason. the above mentioned story clearly. Am working on letter of explanation to Gruening, Diary 46, 1938 -21st – Director Territories, in the Dept. of Interior – but November 21-24 At work in the office as usual. dout action. -22 & 23rd- -18th - Same old work, but completed my letter about D.B. Femmer came in and paid me $70.84 in full Copper River & N.W. Rate matter at Cordova & Fairbanks today. Letter directed, with enclosures office at work as usual. Invited to a Thanksgiving to Hon. Ernest H. Gruening, Asst. Sec. Interior dinner by someone. Grace has the name – Ive today. 30 pages must be typed by Grace. It is forgotten long – but I fear no good from it. -25th – Nov. 24, Thanksgiving Day. Renewed Russian America for gold. Grace is typing my letter to Director Gruening. I -26th - hope it will attract his interest and secure his Same as yesterday. Juneau Bar Association. The attention to the matters mentioned – the court trying criminal cases. I do not attend – not abandonment of the C.R. & N.W. Ry – the interested in such cases. monopoly and greed of the Birch-Kennecott mines The AFU & C.I.O. quarreling & the monopoly of the same interests in their Diary 46, 1938 -26 continued Diary 46, 1938 24 November 26 The A. Fed. L. & C.I.O. labor unions fighting each November 24 costing of the Richardson Highway & $25,000 other – have stopped all work on Baranoff Hotel & investment by the N.P. & Great Northern & Alaska other building in their quarrels. No trouble with the S.S. Co in the Mt McKinley National Park & Gold Employees – but fear the quarrels among fields of Fairbanks, etc. etc. I remember the gun themselves. Their internecine quarrels have assault by the Birch crowd on the Home Railway stopped all building operation in Juneau – it’s a laborers in the Valdez canyon – the shooting of the question which Union shall control the Graft – laborers – the trial of Hazy – their gunman for that Great damage to building without, so far, any good crime – the expenditure of Thousands of dollars to to either Union. The Unions will hold an election prevent his conviction – the suicide of poor Jarvis on Dec. 2, to settle their jurisdictional contest – in to escape trial on indictment for perjury in the the meantime work is stopped – both sides Nome Coal frauds, the Congressional Committees picketing the other. The people do not act to investigation of the Alaska Syndicate for Coal protect the public interest!! Frauds, etc. and have Diary 46, 1938 -27th – Diary 46, 1938 24 November 27-28 Sunday – working on Letter to Gruening & Ickes – November 24 no confidence in the Birch-Kennecott honesty or C.R. & N.W. Ry Grace is typing it for mailing. honor where their interests are at stake. I still think -28th - they are now attempting to get control of the My eyesight is gradually growing weaker & I have Alaska Ry, the Fairbanks-McKinley Tourist trade – to depend on Grace to aid me in letter writing. Am the Fairbanks gold or at least a monopoly on the trying to finish my writing of the story of the Golden Steamship & Alaska Ry rates there such as they Paystreak from Cape Horn to Point Barrow – but its have long had on the C.R & N.W. Ry rates from dull work on account of bad eyes. Cordova to Kennecott & on the Alaska SS. Co. line I ate lunch today at the Café alongside of Acting from Cordova to Seattle. I hope to induce Governor Griffin – he told me that Delegate Gruening & Ickes to investigate their (Birch & Co.) Dimond had expressed the belief that Mooney present efforts to carry out the similar felonies in [Thomas J. Mooney], convicted 20 years ago – or the Seward-Fairbanks country & to prevent its thereabouts for murder at the parade in S.F. was success. But? not guilty & ought to be made free!! Diary 46, 1938 November 24th 1938. Diary 46, 1938 -29th – November 24 Having now concluded by letter of warning to November 29-30 Same as yesterday. Gruening I am getting out my Ms. ready for -30th - continuing the story of the American Golden Letter from Darrell saying he is very sick – the Paystreak from Cape Horn to Point Barrow! In the doctor advises him he has a lung trouble like Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 tuberculosis and has ordered him to bed for 3 was drunk & attempted to open the trial of Smith months. He writes he is very sick and seems much for murder – Court had to appoint Roden to have troubled about his condition. Have written him to charge of the defense! obey the instructions & to write to me daily about -3rd- his condition an if he cannot to have Jane do it, Cash Cole came in & told me he was having and if he grows worse to telegraph me his trouble with the Citizen Com. of which he is condition & symptoms & a gr[great] distress to me! chairman: that he had arranged to have Quist, the Some time ago he wrote (over) contractor on the Hotel Building fill his want of Diary 46, 1938 30 laborers filled with C.I.O.s – sufficient to keep work November 30 saying the doctor said he had the lungs of an old going – but Glass the Presbyterian blocked the man & I fear they are growing slowly worse – dry matters & I advised him to go ahead & do it and hard. anyway – otherwise the work – take the bull by its Have finished my letter to Hon. Ernest H. horns - & go ahead. Dont know what he may do – Gruening, Director Dept. of Interior – with think Faulkner manages Glass – we want the work enclosures – about the Abandonment of the done!! Copper River & NW. Ry. Kennecott Copper Diary 46, 1938 -4th – Corporation, with maps, etc. urging Senator Ickes December 4-5 Sunday – remained at home all day to oppose the plan – also about the payment of I am now interested in studying the feeble efforts of $25,000, to the Mt. McKinley Transportation Road Soroshin, the Russian mining engineer who matters – to the officials of the Roads in the Park passed so much time & Russian roubles – 1848- by the N.P. Ry. the Great Northern Ry. & the 1858, in convincing the Russian America fur Alaska steamship Co. Payment probably by Company that there were no profitable gold mines Stephen Birch – representative Director for said 3 in Alaska – Russian America. I have read a Corporations! translation of his Reports and studied his writings & Diary 46, 1938 December 1, 1938. am at a loss to understand how he could impress December 1-2 A fierce contest is being waged between Am. Fed. the Russians with his imbecile work & talk – he Labor organization & the new one, the C.I.O. as to was more of a fool than an engineer engaged in a which one shall be director in Union affairs – it is a serious problem. jurisdictional contest – but both have called -5th - “strikes,” to prevent their members from working – Glass & another member of the Citizens laboring – on the new Hotel & other buildings – Committee to aid in the settlement of the both claim the right to exclusive right to work – but Diary 46, 1938 5 will not do so in company with the members of the December 5-6 telephoned asking me to attend a meeting of 100 other – and work is stopped & riots are feared. So Juneau business men tonight to secure a long, however, as they fight each other it is not so settlement of the Strikes by the AF.L. & C.I.O. bad – we hope the disease does not spread! Unions -2nd - I will not attend – the official Conciliator sent out by Union troubles quieter but still ready for battle – the Government will arrive in Juneau on the Letter about C.R. & N.W. Ry. evidence sent to steamship tomorrow and I advised that they wait Gruening! Finished chapter on Russian – America until he reaches here before acting in the matter: – Doroshin! They may do more harm than good by trying to Diary 46, 1938 -Dec. 2- force a compromise before his arrival. December 2-3 Mrs. Mildred Hermann, lady lawyer told me her -6th - difficulties with Judge Alexander – George Grigsby The Citizens numbering more than 100 met in the Masonic Hall tonight – talked – talked & did nothing -14th – else. Robertson had prepared a City Ordinance to In the office as usual. prevent picketing but the City Council refused to 15th pass it - So In the office as usual. Diary 46, 1938 -7th – -16th - December 7-9 Received letter from Lingo, Receiver U.S. Land Friss letters from Charlie Taylor and my letter with Office – saying he had information that the Jack $1000 to Harry G. McCain – per Harry P. Shepherd Sargent Hd. was clear – the official investigator Diary 46, 1938 -17th – had approved the case for final proofs, etc. I had December 17-20 Sent Taylors letter of yesterday by midnight boat already written a letter to George Hamilton, with letter of instructions & $1000 check to Harry G. Ketchikan, asking for his evidence that Jack was a McCain by Harry P Shepherd. citizen & I will wait till I get his reply. Letter also -18th – from Chas. E. Taylor, Fairbanks about the Friss Sunday – Grace & I sending Christmas greetings Estate – but have written for more information to friends! about that! -19th – -8-9th - In the office as usual. Studies about American Same as usual in the office. Paystreak – writing. Nothing new in the Strike of the Unions Chapt. mammals & man. I find it hard to read or prepare data in the matter of -20th - mining material – one cannot think when cannot Same as usual in the office. Grace busy sending read. out Christmas cards & some “Old Yukon.” Diary 46, 1938 -10th – Diary 46, 1938 -21st- December 10-12 Good attendance at the Juneau Bar Assoc: December 21 Received letter & check for $26649 balance due on Banfield delivered a very interesting talk about the sales of “Old Yukon” from ONeill on todays mail Bull Fight he and Curtis Shattuck attended at Also telegram from McCain attorney, Ketchikan, Mexico City. Arthur C. Thomas, old sourdough saying Commissioner Austin, refuses to transfer sent a form to answer in support of a increase of Estate matter of Bernard Friss, resident of pension – I cannot remember him & wrote a note Fairbanks, from Ketchikan to Fairbanks in asking him to call to renew my memory about compliance with petition, motion, objections etc. him!~ sent to him by Shepherd on Saturday night boat. -11th Sunday- Will telegraph Taylor, Fairbanks, for further At home assisting Grace to write letters to the instructions! Advise McCain of my action by pioneers who attended the September Reunion telegraph. etc. Diary 46, 1938 -21st- -12th - December 21-23 Grace is busy with Christmas cards, packages, etc. In the office as usual. “Old Yukon” is selling well. I autographed many Diary 46, 1938 -13th – copies for persons who give them to friends. December 13-16 Received a Christmas Card from R.R. Geoghegan -22nd – (Dick) todays mail! to my surprise – for I heard he Same as usual in office had passed on!! Writing notes on American Gold Prospecting on the Grace sent him a copy of my “Old Yukon,” by mail Pacific Coast Also letter by Airmail! -23rd- I am glad to hear Dick still lives! Same as yesterday. Grace has winter cold – sick Working in the office! spell. Telegram from McCain – says King verified Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 fact that Friss, from Fairbanks was an inhabitant of myself to prepare Resolutions. Ketchikan when he died on Canadian boat. – false Gov Troy is in Seattle - coming and fraudulent statement. th Diary 46, 1938 31 Diary 46, 1938 -24 – December 31 home on todays boat from Seattle. December 24-25 Saturday. Bar Association Luncheon. Judge Le

Fevre furnished the cocktails & the luncheon was [clipping] abundant & good. In Memoriam Jack Hellenthal reported sick. th A RESOLUTION -25 - WHEREAS, the Juneau Bar Association, and the Christmas day – stormy and we remained quietly at people of Alaska generally, have heard with home The Heisels – father Mother & Edwin had profound sorrow of the death of the Honorable dinner with us – also Woody Atkinson, one of our Edward W. Griffin, Secretary of Alaska, and Acting miners – a few callers a little “Tom & Jerry” – the Governor of the Territory, which occurred at Hermann’s called – a pleasant hour – Grace read a Juneau, Alaska, on Friday, the 30th day of new Book this evening. The Shining Mountains – December, 1938; Adventure by AND WHEREAS, the Association well knew and Diary 46, 1938 -26th – appreciated the high character of Mr. Griffin, his December 26-29 Monday – windy – cold, but not excessively so. In conscientiousness in all the ways of his life, his the office all day devotion to duty and his friendliness with all his -27th – fellows; Wind – Taku – calming down. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that as At the office all day – writing on The appearance of a particular mark of our respect for the deceased, Ancient Asiatic Mammals in America – particularly and in recognition of his distinguished public at Rancho le Brea tax[tar] pools at Los Angeles, services, this Association desires to go upon Cal. Mr. D.J. Conway of Portland Oregon called record in appreciation of the same. spent an hour talking about the W.U. Tel. Co. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Secretary Russian extension – sold him copy of my of this Bar Association transmit a copy of this Bibliography – he will call at my home tomorrow Resolution to the family of the deceased, to the evening to continue conversation! principal newspapers of the Territory, and that, -28-29- further, he spread a copy of this Resolution upon Same as every other day – work. the minutes of the Bar Association meeting of Diary 46, 1938 -30th – December 30-31 December 31, 1938. Mr. J.W. Conway, from Portland spent the evening JAMES WICKERSHAM with us at home. We talked books –Books & more GEORGE F. ALEXANDER Books. he is particularly interested in Books GEORGE W. FOLTA, relating to Oregon & gains much information about Members of the Committee them – he enjoyed our N.W. books & is a pleasant gentleman. st Edward Wellington Griffin, Secretary of Alaska -31 - and currently Acting Governor during the absence Edward W. Griffin, Sec. of Alaska & Acting of Governor John W. Troy, died suddenly of a heart Governor died suddenly last night at a banquet attack at 10:25 o’clock last night immediately prior given to the Philippine citizens – Grace called on to his scheduled address as guest of honor before his sister. The Juneau Bar Association appointed a banquet of the Juneau Filipino community. a Committee – Judge Alexander, Geo. W. Folta & Slipping from his seat into the arms of another copper interests in Butte, Montana. guest, Mayor Harry I. Lucas, the Acting-Governor With Ralph H. Miller, now nationally influential as died almost instantly. Although hurried to St. Ann’s a paper manufacturer, he purchased the Chena Hospital for emergency treatment, he failed to station of the N.A.T. and T. company in 1906, and revive, according to Dr. W.W. Council, Director of later assumed control alone as E.W. Griffin and the Territorial Department of Health. Company. Fortuitously, Secretary Griffin’s death came on For approximately 10 years, then, he followed the eve of Governor Troy’s return from the States. the great stampedes as a trader, operating on the With his daughter, Helen Troy Bender, the fabulous creeks of the Interior, at Ophir, Kantish- Territory’s Chief Executive, recently recovering In the years between 1914 and 1917, with ill- from a period of ill health, sailed today from Seattle health overtaking him, Griffin commenced to sell on the Alaska Steamship Company’s Baranof. out his interests, mainly to the Northern As a consequence, Griffin’s offices will remain Commercial Company. suspended and unoccupied pending the In 1917, he went Outside for a year and upon his Governor’s arrival early next week, according to return launched a new ventures at Seldovia and Harry Watson, close friend of the Griffin family and later at Kodiak in herring and salmon packing. secretary to Governor Troy. Then, 10 years later, his health failed again and Griffin, widely-known throughout Alaska since he returned to the Outside. But he rebounded to the inception of his career as a trader shortly after Alaska again in 1929, and with W.J. Erskine the Klondike gold stampede, passed away at the became active again in packing at Kodiak. Mrs. age of 70, bringing to the close the story of a man Griffin died August 21, 1930 at Seward and was who had known 20th century Alaska as intimately buried there. perhaps as few other men have understood it. Friends have arranged that he will be buried Present near his as he died was the friend who beside her, as was his desire. had been close to him since his earliest days in the In 1930 and 1931, Griffin’s health forced him Territory, Senator from the Fourth Division C.H. again to quit the North, and he did not return until “Alabam” La Boyteaux, who was in Juneau his recess appointment as Secretary of Alaska in preparatory to the convening of the Territorial June, 1933. Legislature on January 9. In the recess appointment, Griffin continued until And La Boyteaux said this morning of his January, 1934, and at the expiration of the period comrade of the great stampedes: was requested to stay at the post for another four- Diary 46, 1938 31 year term. He was again reappointed in January, December 31 [clipping continued] 1938. “As far as I knew the man, he was not religious in Griffin fell with his heart attack last night just as the formal sense. His religion was the golden rule the toastmaster, M.G. Rayela, was preparing to and he practiced it ardently.” introduce him as the principal speaker of the The instances of Griffin’s kindnesses are many, evening. but conferred so modestly that few even of his What his message might have will never be closest associates have know of them. known, but the colorful content of Griffin’s past is He first appeared in Alaska, arriving in the legend to the old timers. Interior Gold towns via Dawson, about 1901. Griffin financed the Tom Lloyd expedition’s climb During the succeeding few years he became up Mount McKinley, first party to reach the summit general auditor for the North America Trading and of the peak, later claims notwithstanding. The Transportation Company following association with Lloyd group topped the mountain, according to Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 newspaper dispatches of that day, at 3:45 o’clock music. I cannot see playors on the Radio pictures in the afternoon of April 3, 1910, and among the satisfactory. party were Charley McGonigle, Peter Anderson, Diary 46, 1939 -5th - William R. Taylor and reportedly Hary Carstens, January 5 Arnold, Atty. from Ketchikan – called – lobbyist for known also as the “Seventy-Mile Kid”, who later Cannerymen, called - says his people want to be became the first superintendent of Mount McKinley allowed to live in peace – to be “let alone” – etc. National Park. District Court in session, trying criminal cases. Griffin is survived by his sister Helen Griffin of Nothing important – jury cases. I am getting Juneau, and two brothers, William V. Griffin of weaker in eyesight. Chicago, and Frank Griffin, of Orlando, Florida. Can hardly read. He was a member of the B.P.O.E. and an early My old friend John Hyducovich whom I knew at the moving spirit in the growth of the Pioneers of McCarty or Big Delta in about 1906, came in to see Alaska. me. I was very glad to see him again – we talked The body is at the Charles W. Carter Mortuary. about Big Delta & Clearwater – when he took me Juneau Elks will hold special services Monday fishing there the last time was at afternoon at 2 o’clock at the B.P.O.E. Hall in his Diary 46, 1939 memory. 5 January 5-6 the Tanana crossing at that time He told me the Diary 46, 1939 Sunday. Jany 1, 1939. story of how he found the last airplane – in which January 1-2 The death of my friend E.W. Griffin is regretted by Nirdate – a man & his wife & the pilot were lost the people of Alaska. Services will be held by the there some years ago. John is a fine man – and I Elks Lodge tomorrow at their Rooms. nd was glad to have a visit with him. -Jany 2 - It is reported that Bob Bartlett, Fairbanks, Circle Memorial services for Gov. Griffin held today – a etc. has been appointed Secretary of the Territory large attendance. The SS. Baranof came in after in place of Edw. W. Griffin, who died last week. He the Griffin memorial – Gov. Troy aboard – I am ought to make a good officer! glad he is back to take charge now that Griffin is -6th- gone. Senator Larry Sullivan from Nome arrived In the office as usual. Working on “The American tonight on the boat from Seward with his wife & 2 Paystreak,” etc. boys Larry is the only Republican elected to this Felix Gray Commissioner came in with a copy of Legislature. rd my “Bibliography” to autograph could not find a Diary 46, 1939 -Jany 3 ’39. copy of “Old Yukon” at any place in town. January 3-4 Met “Alabam” – L Boyteau – Fbks Diary 46, 1939 -7th – Senator Sullivan called with his son “Jimmy” – a January 7-9 Legislators gathering for organization on Tuesday. fine boy. A radical group has control – 23 members are We had a heavy mail – from Ruth, ONeill & many “New Deal” – Democrats – Larry Sullivan is the others. th only Republican in the body. -4 - th th -8 – Many members of the 14 Alaska Legislature Sunday – at home – library. coming in – some call – Senator Cochran, of Nome -9th – & Rep. Gordon, of Fairbanks – called, glad to see Quiet except much commotion over appointment – both. Bob Bartlett for Secretary in poor Griffin’s place & Working on my Ms. on American Gold Streak – it is dozens for places in the Senate & House. interesting. -9th - Went with Grace to the theater to hear old time Legislature organizing today. Senate quiet – -16th- House squabbling. Same as usual in the office. Received a rare old copy of a Russian book from Mrs. “Aukie” Diary 46, 1939 -9th continued Anderson, from Sanak. Do not yet know it is – for January 9-10 Mrs. Wickersham & I entertaining Senator Larry it is in the Slavic type of Russian Sullivan & wife, the Wilcox (Mr. & Mrs.) John Diary 46, 1939 -17- Hyducovich & Mrs. Paine from her island fox farm January 17-19 Working in the office as usual – on Ms. relating to at dinner tonight. Introduction Gold Mining on North Pacific Coast – -10th- Japan Ocean current – to America. Above named friends had dinner with us last night th -18 - – an enjoyable evening. I was particularly glad to Recd copy by mail “13 Years of Travel & have a visit from my old friend John Hyducovich – Exploration in Alaska,” W.H. Pierce formerly of whom I last visited at his roadhouse cabin at Treadwell, etc. 1890. Printed in Lawrence, Kansas McCarty crossing the Tanana river at the mouth of 500 by Prof. & Mrs. J.H. Carruth - $7. the Big Delta river – 15 years or so ago. John is th -19 - atypical miner, furtrader – trapper guide etc. a fine On reading “13 Years in Alaska I am convinced old character. that he was “non compos” – The fact are that he Diary 46, 1939 -11th- was suffering greatly – last half of book fell into January 11-13 Legislature organizing quietly. “tuberculosis” or similar disease & dictated the My eye sight getting worse. latter part of his Ms. I can hardly see to read even with my best glasses. Diary 46, 1939 19 Working on Introduction to my Ms. regarding The January 19-21 to relatives who had no information about Alaska or American Paystreak from Cape Horn to Point his troubles & therefore muddled the facts so badly Barrow! Slow & doubtful task. that his illusions became facts – the book for the -12th- first part is sane – the later part insane. His story In the office same as yesterday! about slaughtering a tribe of cannibals in the upper A remarkable fine fall & winter – no wind – little 40 Mile River region is pure illusion. snow – good weather. Have a bad cold & remain at home – it is bad Working on getting Friss case appealed from weather too. Ketchikan for Taylor attorney for Friss heirs at th -20 - Fbks. Bad cold & bad weather coinciding -13th- I remain by the warm fire today. Same as usual in the office. st -21 - Diary 46, 1939 -14th – Rain has carried off much of the snow so I go to January 14-16 Bar Assoc. meeting: full attendance the office. Bar Assoc. lunch. Robertson agreed to compromise the case of Diary 46, 1939 -22- Howard v Warrack, et. al. January 22-24 Sunday. At home in library. Court busy hearing criminal cases. -23- I do not take part in any such cases. In the office – nothing important. Nothing but work & petty work at that & no money 24- in any of them. The New Deal legislature and Governor Troy are in -15th- a real “New Deal” with the publication of a letter Sunday – Working with Grace in the library on from Sec. of Interior Ickes dictated to the Governor listing my Alaska books & fixing prices. and the Legislature demanding under threats from Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 the Sec. (or may be written at the request of the powerful as a lobbyist. President) that the Governor & the Legislature raise the rate of taxation on the mining interests in Diary 46, 1939 -29th- Alaska to 8% a raise from 3%. I am told January 29- Sunday. Sent telegram to Harry McCain, Diary 46, 1939 24 February 2 Ketchikan – to send me papers from his office in January 24-25 the Governor has written a letter of “transmittal” of Friss case. the letter to the Legislature & has – or may – -30th- resigned Reports that other unhappy letters from Taku wind – first this years gathering Madam Secretary Perkins of the Labor Dept. has Rowland of Hanson & Rowland, Tacoma called – also been received – no public report on it has agreed to settlement of Howard case. been made. Ickes threatens to cut Alaska 31st appropriations for Alaska if his instructions are not Prepared Statement of Facts & Bill for services in complied with! 00 th Howard case $160 & sent to Robertson – for -25 - Rowland. Ickes orders to Gov. Troy are imperative – the Gov. February 1, 1939. is complying slowly – just enough to keep his job – In office at work as usual. without enthusiasm! -2- Diary 46, 1939 -26th – Legislature busy (?) as usual, but one must not January 26-28 In the office as usual – nothing important – except expect too much from a new Legislative body – it row in the New Deal party – public opinion favors takes time to educate them & the people. the Governor! rd th Diary 46, 1939 -Feb. 3 - -27 - February 3-4 Grace is preparing to entertain the members of the Reading Albert Gallatins book on the ethnology of Legislatures at buffet dinners - one half on Feb. 9th the mid American Indian tribes – studying also the – the other half on the 11th! The Governor gave southern migration of the Tena group, - also Grace an honorary appointment with Bishop rereading “Old Yukon.” Loafing. th Crimont, on a flag sponsoring Committee – -28 - yesterday. Neither of us knows what it means. Recd. letter from Mrs. Jules L. Prevost, asking for a -4th- copy of my article – as she heard it – including In the office: Rowland – Hanson & Attys & Agents Rev. Jules Prevost’s pictures et. Sent her copy of of Lloyds, London, Ins. Co. paid me $16000 in full my Old Yukon – she will be pleased with his picture services in Howard vs Warrack, Lloyds case. Diary 46, 1939 -28th- Attended Juneau Bar Assoc. request of Judge Le January 28 The Juneau Bar Meetings while the Legislature is Fevre. Lobby Struggle – a nuisance & I wont go in session are merely “lobby meetings” – where our again. local lobbyists & the “big interest” crowd do their Diary 46, 1939 5 work. I shall not attend any more until after the February 5 Sunday – blizzard blowing. Legislature adjourns! Winn, Faulkner, Banfield, Senator LeRoy Sullivan, his wife and boys “Jimmy” Robertson etc. invite their friends to talk. Today & “Frank” had noonday breakfast with us. “Larry” the Lobby” including Judge Alexander was intent is of Irish ancestry, tall, dark and quiet but a wise on putting through a Bill to increase penalties on fellow – witness Senatorship in the Legislature: subsequent convictions for crime! Judge Mrs. Sullivan is a blonde – light – Swedish ancestry Alexander, Geo. Folta, Dep. Dist Atty. Faulkner, – both boys are equally marked. “Jimmy is 5-1/2 Banfield and a crowd of their friends talked worked years old, dark & bright – like his father: “Frank” is – but did not accomplish much. The Judge is about 3 years old with marked Swedish coloring & have spread & burned the whole central part of like his mother – they are fine boys – a fine family. town. Luck – or the Lord – saved us. I enjoyed their visit. -10th- Diary 46, 1939 -6th – We had a gathering of 1/2 - 20 – members of the February 6-7 As usual in the office. Ralph Merrill called – on Legislature at our home last night – a buffet dinner southbound boat. The SS. “Baranoff” – going – music & singing – a fine meeting – a good time – south Strike of “Captains, Mates & Pilots,” holding a meeting of many of my old political and personal all U.S. Steamers up in Seattle & boats being tied friends – cocktail bumpers – cigars etc etc. They up when they reach port. seemed happy – I was! -7th- Diary 46, 1939 -10th- continued. Heavy “Taku” wind blowing. February 10-11 I presented Frank Heintzleman copy of my Temperature at zero – worst blow this winter. Bibliography to encourage him in gathering Alaska Grace sending out invitations for ½ members of the Books in place of four big boxes of rare Alaskana Legislature to take dinner with us evening of the which he lost in the Goldstein Block fire! 9th. Hope the wind calms - but our big house -11th- helps – to keep us warm Mike Sullivan, my old pioneer friend from Yakataga Diary 46, 1939 -8th- Beach oil fields came in on last night boat form February 8 Goldstein Building Fire Seattle – he has a plan to apply for relief from the Six story concrete Goldstein Building burns this Alaska Railroad dismissal – thinks he can recover morning some fool set a bed afire with his cigarette reimbursement or pension. I am to prepare while he slept. The took the mattress down into application for him: Senator Bone of the basement & thought they had extinguished the Diary 46, 1939 11 fire – but it smoldered & burst out when they left – February 11 Seattle will support his demand. Rumor has it that set the oil in the 6 story elevator shaft ablaze & Secretary of the Interior sent a new demand for 8% before the Fire Dept. could act it was out of tax increase on the gross gold output from Alaska. bounds. 60 or 80 people had rooms – but all The Senate (Territorial Com. on Mines etc.) escaped – but lost their household goods – introduced the Bill as Ickes telegraphed it to them – clothing etc. while the building was outside - without even referring it to a Com. the Senate read Diary 46, 1939 8 it 3 times and then voted against it unanimously~~ February 8-9 concrete all the inner walls, floors furniture, etc. - all in 15 minutes!! and wont Ickes be mad? I think were wood & it made a great fire – enclosed within the Governor’s removal will follow! Bad politics! If concrete furnace walls the geysers of fire rising it the bill had been referred to a Committee – and a 200 feet when the floors fell in looked like the hearing held with loud utterances against it, the outlet of a great volcano! It was a grand sight – to political situation would have been much better – people who lived in houses high on the mountain The Governors health is side – far from danger & loss! Diary 46, 1939 11 -9th- February 1-13 so precarious as to give the Senators good ground The scene around the center of the city – around for removal as the matter now stands. Courteous the Goldstein fire looks disorderly and dirty this treatment would have seemed the same insult and morning – but the high winds had calmed before probably saved the Governor for the present the fire yester anyway. Reports from Seattle mention Emil Hurza, Diary 46, 1939 9 for Governor! February 9-10 day morning – which saved the main city buildings. Grace has her dinner to the other half of the If the high winds had not calmed the fire would Legislature ready for tonight – with Frank Foster as Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 the leader of the Piano Music!! All 5 men in the plane evidently lost! -12th- Sunday – at home. th th Diary 46, 1939 Tuesday 14 1939 -13 - February 14 Nothing heard from the air plane with Chappell & Another bad accident – the airplane from Ketchikan companions! It now seems certain they were lost lost – Chappell, & 3 other persons in the Taku current 2 days ago. Diary 46, 1939 13 Consultation with Dr. Dawes – He examined my February 13 Chamberlain, Clifford & Eb., mercantile salesman, eyes some months ago – says they exhibit a with Cope, the flier in charge were lost in crossing degenerative character – that at my age he will not the Taku air currents following the Canadian S.S. “ expect any recovery – thinks smoking may add Norah,” yesterday evening. The people on the somewhat to their failure – that he does not “Norah” saw them flying – then lost sight of them - anticipate any recovery – that occultist might slow went back & searched for four hours but could not loss but thinks not, that I have read & used my find any trace – the U.S. Haida took up the search eyes to an extreme etc. – found nothing – darkness closed the efforts. th th Diary 46, 1939 -14 – Monday the 13 Febry February 14-15 Did not order me to quit smoking but suggested it – Constant efforts made by boats to locate the just worn out & may grow slowly worse until I will airplane & passengers but no sign of the plane or not be able to read at all! I will go to Seattle soon passengers & see the occultist there again – Blindness? Diary 46, 1939 13 -15th- February 13 ½ hour past 2 oclock pm. th As usual in the office. -Monday Feb 13 - Wrote letter for Mike Sullivan to Hon. Homer J. I telephoned to R.E. Robertson & he came to my Bone, U.S. Senate Wash. D.C. about Mikes office: My office safe was locked but R.E. discharge from the Alaska Railroad & claim for Robertson assisted me to find the combination - & pension. Nothing about loss of airplane in Taku we finally got the safe opened. I told him that Inlet, drowning of Chappell and five others. No Chappell had left a package in an envelope with trace of plane or men. All certainly drowned or me some months ago with his insurance papers lost! therein – we found it. In my presence and at my Diary 46, 1939 -15th continued request Robertson opened the package which was February 15-16 Mike Sullivan signed the letter to Senator Bone not sealed – and found an Insurance (Accident) about his discharge & pension. I put it in Air Mail policy Envelope & Mike took it up to the Post Office with Diary 46, 1939 13 instruction to put stamps on it & Register it!! February 13 for $5000 on Chappell life – we examined it & -16th- found it in original & good shape. R.E. Robertson Public Reception at the Governors mansion in read it & then went over to Hector McLeans office honor of the Legislature We attended and took our & inquired of McLean and was informed it was friend Woodward Atkinson, as a guest. A large regular and in force and telephoned me. I called crowd present. The Governor feeble received up Mrs. Chappell and gave her that information. sitting in a chair. His daughter Mrs. Helen Bender Also expressed my sympathy for Mrs. Chappell (Robert Bender) acted as hostess and gave a and his mother who is with Mrs. Chappell at the successful and beautiful reception to his guests. Spickett Apartments, Tel. 501 Diary 46, 1939 16 No information of safety yet. February 16-17 th Grace assisted in serving the guests by “pouring” 3 oclock, p.m. 13 Feb. etc I enjoyed meeting many of my friends - & Reviews by newspapers of my “Old Yukon.” Grace watching the crowd of beautiful women & well wrote letter for Mike Sullivan to Carl Beal dressed men – in line and dancing etc. authorizing him to make agreements for the Nothing new about the loss of the air plane at dispersal of his oil claims in his discretion for Taku a week ago – a ceaseless search is carried opening same. Trying to get Zebal & Gergler to on for traces of the plane and six last occupants agree to take testimony in Friss case – it’s a hard but no sign of their fate has yet been found. We case – since Zeigler & King are trying to job Zebel only know they are dead – thats all. & the Friss Estate! -17th – Diary 46, 1939 -22- In the office as usual. My eye failure is growing February 22-24 Washingtons Birthday – holiday. worse! In the office – writing on my Introduction to The

R.E. Robertson, atty, who American Paystreak from Cape Horn to Point Diary 46, 1939 17 Barrow, Ms. February 17 prepared Corporation papers for the Alaska Mrs. Hermann gave me a disagreeable account of General Ins. Co. telephoned me that he had just Mrs. Wilcox’s review of my “Old Yukon” book – received information from Hennegan president of said it was a combination of my opinions in the the Company, that the Ketchikan stockholders had Alaska Reports etc.!!! determined to complete the organization -24th - notwithstanding the death of Chappell who was its Cash Cole, Pres. Pioneers of Alaska, Juneau, Igloo original promoter. – just telephoned me asking for the prices we had Mrs. Helen Hawks, wife of Jack Hawks – miner, fixed on my Alaskana library – told him I did not has just received news from him in New York, know – said he would telephone to Grace – last saying he has succeeded in signing up papers for day to introduce bill, told him to let it alone – would putting the Keku mines, on Kuiu islands on a not pass anyway! business basis etc etc. & she and Grace are Diary 46, 1939 24 greatly excited in consequence. February 24-25 [clipping] Diary 46, 1939 -18th – Judge Wickersham Offers Collection February 18-19 As usual in the office My friend Editor Wirt, of the Purchase of Alaska Library Is Urged Daily Press, called at my library & we talked about Purchase by the Territory of Judge Jack McQuesten – he wants to prepare a Wickersham’s library, the finest on the subject of biography of Jack. – I told him that Jack had written Alaska in the world, was urged in the last bill to be nothing – and was famous only for his good introduced in the Senate before the deadline qualities of heart – he befriended the early expired yesterday, Senate Bill 98. prospectors and was a quiet home loving Introduced by Senator Roden at the request of gentleman. That Gordon C. Bettles was the the local Igloo of the Order of Pioneers, the bill sets character he ought to exploit – a printer – a up an appropriation of $35,000 to buy the library newspaper man – a story teller etc. etc. and place it permanently in the Alaska Historical -19th - Library and Museum. Sunday – Took a walk - & worked in the library. The library is considered by many experts to be Diary 46, 1939 -20th – worth over $50,000, and is full of rare editions of February 20-21 Writing letters – first boat to arrive for two weeks – books on the Northland, as well as many other 8 days mail! sections of western America. -21st- -25th - Same as usual in the office. Some very flattering As usual in the office. While Roden introduced the Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 bill in the Legislature to buy my Alaskana library, I Diary 46, 1939 2 am informed it will not be enacted into law – but I March 2 which the Pioneers of Alaska, Juneau, requested do not care – it will continue to be useful & Senator Roden to introduce making an increase in value! appropriation to purchase my Alaskana library. I Diary 46, 1939 -26th – advised him not to take any part in the matter – to February 26-27 Sunday – Grace is preparing data for Cash Cole to let the Pioneers & their friends do what they use in his agreement in favor of the Legislature pleased about it – that I would be not do anything purchasing my Alaskana! She also copied my to urge its passage – he said he would act on my Notice to King, Ketchikan administrator of the Friss suggestion. estate, notifying him of taking the Testimony of Senate refused to pass Bill to buy my library: Rivers, Spencer & Landers, members of the Legislature from Fairbanks – in the Friss case – to [clipping] show his residence in Fairbanks. Senate Tables -27th- Wickersham Busy in the office preparing to take the testimony in Library Bill the Friss Case from Fairbanks & Ketchikan: A fervent plea by Senators Cochran and Sullivan prepared Notice of taking same directed to Zeigler, of Nome to have the Territory purchase the famed Atty. Wickersham library Diary 46, 1939 -28th - Diary 46, 1939 2 February 28 Served papers in Friss case on Zeigler – March 2-3 [clipping continued] subpoenas for three witnesses – Senator Rivers, was nullified by the Senate this afternoon, 5 to 3, members of House, Spencer & Landers to prove as a motion to table carried. Friss an inhabitant of Fairbanks when he died on The bill requested an appropriation of $35,000 to board the Canadian SS. “Norah,” on his arrival at place the library in the Alaska Historical Library, Ketchikan – where Zeigler & King attorneys and for the first time the University of Alaska’s act secured his pocket book with more than $1200. & of ignoring the Wickersham library in preparing its King was appointed Administrator!! but sent Friss Alaska history was brought to light. body back to Fairbanks – his home for burial. It’s a Senator Sullivan told how the Rockefeller lawyer racket to make a bill for themselves by fraud foundation appropriated $16,000 for the history of and perjury. Alaska; and how the money was spent in New York Diary 46, 1939 -March 1st 1939- translating Russian documents which had already March 1-2 My friends Bob. Bloom & Dr. Chase of Cordova been translated into English and were in the came in on SS “Yukon,” today and I have invited Wickersham library. both out to dinner. Cash Cole working to get data Despite their declarations that it would be a to present to Legislature on a Pioneers request bill tragedy to let the library leave the Territory, to have the Territory buy my Alaskana library. Cochrane and Sullivan were voted down. Senator -Mch 2nd - Cochran indicated he would ask for vote Bob Bloom, left on the airplane this morning reconsideration. enroute to Fairbanks. Am preparing questions to -3rd- use for depositions tomorrow at 2 p.m. in the Friss Depositions taken in Friss case. Zeigler stipulated case. My friend Senator LeRoy Sullivan, from that the two members of the House would testify Nome came in to call – he spoke about the bill the same as Senator Rivers – he stipulated everything we could have proved & thus shortened the hearing. Diary 46, 1939 -3rd – continued. particulars – Ball at Elks Hall last night but we did March 3-5 Grace & I had dinner with Senator & Mrs. Leroy not attend. The Contractor is busy with a force of Sullivan – and their two fine boys! We enjoyed the laborers and summers trucks in cleaning out the dinner and “Larrys” fine family – the boys are debris from the 6 story wreck of Chas. Goldsteins bright, loving & happy. concrete fire proof (?) building They are moving -4th- the mass piled in the concrete walls rapidly! As usual in the office. The Legislature refused to -10th- consider purchasing my Alaska library. Senators Legislature still in session!! Cochrane and Sullivan and one other were friendly Signed & mailed my Income Tax Statement for but the majority of the Senate had other ace for the 1938. Grace & I attended Territorial appropriations – political. Diary 46, 1939 10 -5th- March 10-11 the opening function of the Baranov Hotel. Sunday – at home in my library studying Bering [card: The Baranof strait Indians. Name Judge Wickersham] Diary 46, 1939 -6th – Grace & I attended the opening banquet at the March 6-7 In the office as usual. Mr. & Mrs. Pat Mullan “Baranof” Hotel – 500 persons were present ands it occupy rooms in Mrs. Wickershams “Bishop was a colorful and gay function. Gov Troy could Apartments,” and have the care of the place. She not attend – but Mrs. Bender, his daughter & Harry fell on the slippery street & broke her leg, last Watson, his secretary were present. evening and is suffering in the hospital with a badly -11th - broken hip. At the office as usual: Attended the Bar -7th- Association luncheon: Crowd of Legislation – Fox, whose wife owns my office, has agreed to lobbyists, & others left Juneau for the south on last have my office cleaned from the smoke and dirt of nights boat. the Goldsteins fire – the Ins. Co. pays the expense, Diary 46, 1939 -12th – but hired painters to clean the walls with of March 12-15 Sunday – Home in the library. whitewash – painters did a bad job – Fox did My blindness prevents reading but I can still write – nothing – cultus! badly. Diary 46, 1939 -8th- -13th- March 8 Grace & I attended dinner at Mr. & Mrs. Jack Same as yesterday. Legislators scattering – most Burfords, in honor of Senator & Mrs. Leroy Sullivan have gone home – others on incoming boats. and other Legislative friends of Mr. & Mrs. Frank Nothing to be proud of. Nobody seems to have Foster, parents of Mrs. Burfords. The Burfords won anything except the lobbyists! Mrs. Hermann, have two fine boys which I admired. The newspaper woman, thinks it was a waterhoul – for Legislators will adjourn tomorrow – 14th Session. the fishermen, who are crying! Leroy Sullivan is the lone Republican in the -14th – 15th - Legislature – 23 Democrats – 1 Republican – just Same as usual in the office. equally balanced! Mrs. Stewart interested in sale A competent observer. Mrs. Hermann says Diary 46, 1939 14-15 legislation is good – better than usual. A live lobby March 14-17 of “Old Yukon” – at the book nook in the new Hotel has worked as usual for paying interests. Baranof! There is to be a flood of tourists – Diary 46, 1939 -9th – Rotarians – to Juneau from the States this summer March 9-10 14th Biennial Session of the Legislature adjourned and she thinks she can do a good trade in the book today – see Journals of Senate & House for while they are in the Territory. Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 -16th – Mass. asking her for information about his Same as usual in the office. citizenship – in aid of proving up on his Homestead Writing up note on the prehistoric mining in Japan on west side of Gastineau Channel above the big and on the Pacific Coast of America. Douglas bridge. -17th- Diary 46, 1939 -21st – I had great pleasure this morning to meet a Mrs. March 21-22 In the office: Am invited by my Masonic friends to Wm Williamson whose husband is a surveyor etc be one of the honorary pall bearers at the funeral Diary 46, 1939 17 of John Chappell tomorrow. I will attend of course. March 17 she informed me that she had been delegated by Vernal Equinox – Spring. Mrs. Mildred R. Hermann to gather data for a short Telegram form Hawkes, N.Y. coming this week. biography of my career for publication in the -22nd - Womens paper for this season. Of course I gave A beautiful day with sunshine her what little information she wanted but greatly Attended John Chappell last rites – Masonic enjoyed an hours conversation about our service. Sermon a beautiful tribute by Rev. Glasse experiences in Alaska. She came here 21 years at Presbyterian Church – burial in Masonic part of ago. I, 38 years ago. I referred her to Grace for Juneau Cemetery Howard D. Stabler, Master, particulars! lodge in attendance – well conducted. “Chick” Ashby, (Toms boy) found the airplane lost Diary 46, 1939 -23- some days ago, carrying Chappell, Cope (Flyer in March 23 Working on my final pages of my Introduction to charge) & 3 others on the beach in the timber the Ms. “American” “Paystreak” – my eye sight has today. become so dim that I am greatly hindered that Diary 46, 1939 -18th- even my mental energy coordination and thought March 18 The airplane last at the Taku crossing – opposite are decreased – when one cannot see to read his Grand Island was found yesterday – the SS. Haida own writing it affects his other powers, and I am officers & friends recovered all the six bodies - thus afflicted. I have about concluded my first Cope, Chappell, Chamberlain, Eks, Lennon and writing & possible scrutiny by someone who will all dead – fell in trees & all killed apparently need to go over the pages again who knows the instantaneously. Found a week ago by Chick history & facts better than I do. I am crippled! Ashby, who could not get to Juneau on account of Diary 46, 1939 -24- winds and bad storms. Chappells papers etc all March 24-26 Office as usual – had my maps of Alaska on the safe in the plane by the side of his dead body. wall down & cleaned. The First National Bank Meeting at Commissioner Felix Grays office to building across the Seward street first story examine Chappells papers: Robertson & I invited wrecked & hauled away – dirt flying & big to appear & examine papers. caterpillar truck carrying a power shovel – dirt & Diary 46, 1939 -19th – noise March 19-20 Sunday – at home all day in the library – working -25th – with Grace who is helping me to finish up the Saturday. Court adjourned to go to Ketchikan Introduction to my “Paystreak” Mss. term. Took a walk alone up the Goldstream to the first Juneau Bar Association meeting. bridge in the Basin – came home wet & muddy – Grace comes to the office to assist me in typing but a good walk. law papers, etc. -20th- -26th- In the office – Grace is writing letters to Jack Sunday. At home working in the library – bad tooth Sargents sister – Mrs. Effie S. Drake, Malden, ache Diary 46, 1939 -27th - but willing, could be named on one hand: In the March 27 For two weeks I have been very much interested in House, Speaker Howard Lyng; in the Senate, the excavation of the Goldstein basement in the Messrs. Cochran and Sullivan. great walls of concrete standing high above the And of these, the ONLY ONE who took a burned and wrecked building at the corner of consistent, impartial, universal interest in every Seward & second street. The fire filled it with the piece of legislation that came before his body was debris of the 6th story Gross Block at the fire a Leroy Sullivan, the junior senator from Nome. month ago. – burned timbers ashes, remains of * * * stores, offices, household goods, etc etc. A The Democratic contingent form the Second contractor took the job of excavation: took out a division was a little ashamed of the fact that it had hole in the side, set a wide ramp from the street to elected the only Republican to the legislature. It the basement floor, put in a steamshovel, half a should not be any longer. The Second division dozen trucks - & worked like good men for 2 weeks should be proud that its two senators, both lawyers & now the job is almost completed!! from the little city of Nome, were the outstanding Diary 46, 1939 27 members of the upper house, the only ones, in our March 27 Have written a letter to Knight, the Editor of the opinion, not interested in the pork barrel or the Alaska Weekly, Seattle, and sent him a clipping gravy list. copy of a fine – resume of the activities of Senator * * * Leroy Sullivan, of Nome, on his work & influence in It is interesting to note that Mr. Sullivan was the the legislature which adjourned ten days ago – the only new member of the Senate, with the exception 14th biennial session. It is a highly complimentary of Alabam; yet he was practically running the upper story – well deserved. It will help build Sullivan up house inside of a few weeks, conducting most of in the Republican party - & will do the Party as the inquiries into the deeper significance of the much good as it will Sullivan. He will be a solid rock legislation, questioning speakers from the gallery, in the Territorial political foundation. If he takes it grilling lobbyists, and showing withal a keen, as modestly as I think he will for he can do the analytical mind that dug quickly to source matter territory much good as a leader. and extracted all possible information on the Diary 46, 1939 27 subject. Then he went to work and built up a case March 27 [clipping] pro or con, based strictly on the bill’s merits. Grist * * * from the He showed House members where they had corridors - - erred in drafting their bills so expeditiously that they This is the last of the “Grist” columns, and while it were confounded into agreeing with him. He took has been a long time coming out, the idea has a determined stand against advance portioning of been “in committee” for a long time Early in the road funds and thereby incurred the wrath of all legislative session we began studying the five of his colleagues from the northwest, while at individual lawmakers in an attempt to determine the same time they could not help admiring his just who was the most valuable member of either sincerity. House or Senate. Leroy Sullivan was elected by a margin of 24 * * * votes. His Democratic rival, George Laiblin, could At first it was difficult; some of the boys were have defeated him in a walk if he made any grandstanding, other were holding back. But attempt to campaign throughout the Second during the last month it became apparent that the division, but he just didn’t seem to give a hoot. Our really brilliant legislators, who were not only able thanks to Mr. Laiblin. Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 * * * and piles of ashes. Senator Sullivan was not always right, but he was as honest as a mintkeeper. Although he hated Diary 46, 1939 28 liquor, he dissected and amended every liquor bill March 28 Working on writing Introduction to my Golden that was presented in an attempt to make it Paystreak from Cape Horn to Point Barrow – workable, should it pass. He solved the question slowly! Very impatiently waiting also, for Hawkes of “Who is an Indian” with a specious amendment to return form New York with prospects about to the LaBoyteaux native liquor bill, and he capital to open the Keku mines. I do not have personally strangled about 20 bad bills that came much confidence either in him or the mine! I am through form the House. the only doubting one – Grace, the Kerns, Dr * * * Dawes – Dyrdahl & seem to think its a good Furthermore, he had nothing prospect! Hawkes continues to boost by letters – Diary 46, 1939 27 but no money yet, and he has occupied the top March 27-28 [clipping continued] floor of our residence – 7th & Seward – and owes to do with the last-night finagle that killed the fish $1200. rent to date – no money. trap memorial and the wholesale liquor bill, for he Diary 46, 1939 -29th – had been against them from the start, and his March 29-30 At the office as usual but I cannot read a book or opposition had already been reckoned with. even correct typing which Grace does for me. I * * * can write as this witnesses, - that is all, and I am As a matter of fact, the Democrats forgot that he discouraged in consequence was Republican most of the time, so impartial were Dr. Stewart dentisting my teeth! the man’s arguments. Not once did the party issue Grace answering letters for me in the Jack Sargent cloud proceedings. Sullivan accepted New Deal Hd. matter – writing to another of his sisters – Mrs. agencies as established and tried only to improve Catherine Griffin, 185 Pond St. ______Avon, them. He made a strong plea to place dependent Massachusetts. children under the Department of Public Welfare, -30th - but lost. Attended the funeral of Mr. H.R. Shepard, at the * * * Episcopal Church – old Washington Terry. friends. There were other good men in the Senate, and in Diary 46, 1939 st the House, too; but some of them lacked Sullivan’s -31 - March 31- My eyes have failed in sight so much that I cannot ability as a lawyer, and others his insight as an April 1 impartial observer. He came to Juneau without a see to read a book or writing – not even with single axe to grind, without a single “promise” to glasses. Also have to keep up my teeth – with fulfill, and he left as he arrived. It will be a pleasure dentistry. They – my teeth – are sound but well to welcome back the city attorney of Nome two worn. The old one hoss shay fell apart in a day – years hence for his second term, and let’s hope he but my timbers are yet sound and strong. is not silenced by being elected president of the -April 1, 1939.- Senate. What this Territory needs is 24 Leroy Snowing and raining – Carpenters on flat roof Sullivans in the legislature. across the street busy in the snow nailing on -28th - boards Raining & snowing – yet the men are working Luncheon at Percy’s café with the Juneau Bar cleaning out the Goldstein basement – the Association. Diary 46, 1939 April 2nd 1939 steamshovel is finished & gone – though the heavy April 2-3 trucks and shovel men are clearing out the corners Funeral of Mrs. Olds – Palmer. Very windy & cold – honorary pall bearer with A.W. Fox, Dr Dawes, – but he is too cowardly and weak – cannot stand John Reck & two others. It was attended by many alone – White can control him. of the old friends. Her maiden name was Prior, -5th- she was married to John Olds before 1880, - on his Guy McNaughton, manager B.M. Behrends Bank death to Dr Palmer, a Canadian who survives. By for many years died at the St Anns Hospital her marriage with John Olds she became the Diary 46, 1939 5 mother of several children – who survive her, - a April 5 last night. For nearly 40 years he has been cashier fine good woman. of the Bank and second only Behrends himself in -3rd- the successful management of that sound and Windy – Taku hurricane last night. important institution. A man of the highest In the office as usual – doing little character he has always had the confidence of the Diary 46, 1939 -4th - people of Alaska and given stability to the bank April 4 E.B. Collins, of Fairbanks and his friend Huson, of and Juneau. His death is a decided loss to the Cordova called – they are passengers on the SS. business interests of this city. “Alaska” – bound for the interior – home. The Hawkes is highly pleased with his success at Collins had an adventure with an automobile in the New York in the Keku Mines matter. He had a Yakima valley. Mrs. Collins had arm broken & her personal interview with J.P. Morgan and reports collar bone. While E.B. – being large and fat just him much interested! got rolled & bruised. She is in the hospital at Diary 46, 1939 -6th- Seattle, not badly hurt – just something to talk April 6 Hawkes has related the story of his successful about. A fine morning, wind calm – sunshine interview with J.P. Morgan to Grace, the Kerns & bright. Woody Atkinson and they are all greatly excited J.C.B. Hawks & his son over the prospects reported to them. If his Diary 46, 1939 4 statements are correct he has gotten the mining April 4 “Jacky” arrived on the Northland this morning, on venture in good shape and secured the necessary their return from a four months trip to New York aid to have a competent mining engineer come to where senior went to work up the sale of the Keku the mines in May 19th to report on its value to mines – to parties who may be interested. The Morgan and expect on such report to have the local parties who have advanced money, work, etc. project taken over by capital and probably to prospect same are hopeful! The Hawkes have organized by the Morgan influence for future lived in our house for 2 years or so, without development & exploitation! payment of rent & Grace is hoping he will be able Diary 46, 1939 -7th – to pay rent long overdue! April 7-8 Spent the day writing a letter to John Bremner, 3rd Andrew Nerland, the leading Republican in Alaska, the Grandson of John Bremner 1st who was the a fine man and my friend came to call – he is on first mining prospector to search the Chitina region the for copper. The grandson of the first copper Diary 46, 1939 4 prospector on Copper river resides at Yakutat and April 4-5 SS Alaska, going home, Fairbanks. We talked wrote me a nice letter on March 28th – which I over the political situation & found no hope of answered. getting rid of Al. White – who will undoubtedly try to -8th- control the next Republican convention as he did Luncheon of Juneau Bar Association in honor of last one by unfair means. Rasmusson of the Birthdays of Hon. H.B. LeFevre, President, Skagway’s the only influence which can be Felix Gray, U.S. Commissioner, Juneau, Big expected to exert any power independent of White attendance & pleasant time. LeFevre is 83 years Alaska State Library – Historical Collections Diary of James Wickersham MS 107 BOX 7 DIARY 46 September 27, 1937 through April 26, 1939 old today! I went up to the office of W.B. Kirk, who has charge of the issuance of pensions for old Alaskans and presented the application of Gordon Diary 46, 1939 -9th – C. Bettles. Kirk was not present but Jane April 9-10 Sunday – at home resting & reading. Grace did Alexander, Judge Alexanders daughter was in the reading which does well and I listened with charge and said the application would not be much pleasure. Read Biography of Meriwether allowed until Bettles returned from Seattle and Lewis, leader of the Lewis & Clark exploring presented it - & showed he was a present resident Expedition from Washington D.C. to the mouth of – where he has lived for more than 50 years the Columbia river We had finished biography of Diary 46, 1939 14 Sam Houston, of Texas. April 14-15 she said she would write to him & state the -10th- reasons for refusal, that Harry Watson, the At the office. Wrote a letter to Knight, editor of Governors secretary had been in to urge the Alaska weekly in support of Leroy Sullivan – as a application but had been given the same refusal. Republican leader in Alaska. th -15 - Diary 46, 1939 10 In company with A.W. Fox, atty. I interviewed April 10-11 I can still write – my fingers can still move the pen Truitt, Atty. General of Alaska about refusal of Kirk along a line and record my thoughts though my Director Public Welfare to accept application of sight is growing so bad that I cannot read a book or Gordon C. Bettles, for 50 years a resident of writing after I pass it by, except dimly and painfully Alaska, and to allow him pension under the laws of with the use of a magnifying glass. I must await Alaska – Atty. Genl will take charge of case and try some money from Winden, my agent at Tacoma to get results I want – pension allowance and go there or to Seattle for assistance from an th Diary 46, 1939 -16 – eye specialist for treatment. April 16-18 th Sunday – at home. -11 - th -17 - Letter from Darrell says I must sell something to In the office as usual but too blind to read or write. procure money for eye treatment – he is hard up! Had dentist work done on a broken tooth by Dr. After 6 years of the New Deal!! A.W. Stewart. Grace is assisting me with such Diary 46, 1939 -12th – April 12-13 work as I am obliged to do. Attended Funeral of Guy McNaughton, for 30 years th -18 - connected with B.M. Behrends bank here in SS. Alaska from Seattle. Hess & wife aboard: Juneau, at Elks Hall. It was a large audience, the Took Fairbanks plane – did not see him – wrote ceremonies were solemn and worthy of the kind him letter go on next airplane, asking payment of and highly respectable man who passed away. He anything due me on Homestake mine – sale: Tom, was my friend during all the years of our Walton long story about Fox farm on Aaron Island acquaintance and I paid the full measure of my & mines on Admiralty Island – good story! respect to his memory and our friendship. th Diary 46, 1939 18 continued -13th- April 18-20 Ralph Merrill on Alaska another long story about Wrote letter to Gordon C. Bettles & interviewed rich mine! Harry Watson and Hawksworth about his pension 00 Received $125 act. rentals from A.W. Winden Diary 46, 1939 -14th - April 14 Tacoma – Ranch! Beautiful sunny day! th -19 - Grace is copying my Introduction to the Golden As usual – in the office – nothing. Paystreak! Wrote letter to Ruth, Easter Card. th -20 - Received from McCaine & Stearns Ketchikan, copy judgment in the Friss Estate, Fairbanks, annulling & declaring void the Probate proceedings in the Ketchikan precinct, allowing McCain & Stearns $150.00 atty fee in the case allowing me $10000 atty fee & adding balance due Friss Estate to be paid to the Fairbanks Administrator. Diary 46, 1939 -20th – continued April 20-22 Wrote letter to Charles E. Taylor – Estate attorney Fairbanks sending him papers sent me by Mc & Stearns Taylor will make his own accounts in the Fairbanks case to the court there. It was a bad case – for the Estate, but was so held by Judge Alexander on his judgment. Recd. from A.W. Winden, my Tacoma agent $12500 on act rentals of Puyallup ranch! -21st- In the office as usual – nothing important. -22nd- Bar Association Luncheon. At the office as usual. Diary 46, 1939 -23rd- April 23-26 Sunday – at home walking -24th- In the office as usual, writing answering correspondence with Graces assistance. Princess boat with several days mail -25- Same as yesterday – in office. -26th- We are getting up courage to go to Seattle – next week!