Located north of Anchorage, the area has been inhabited since around 1650. Boundaries were Eagle River on the South and Knik River on the north. The land was originally inhabited by Tanaina Athapaskans in a village called "Ikluat". this village began as a hunting village and gradually became permanent. Today the village of Eklutna is home to around 50 people and is a popular tourist destination with the unique "spirit houses" and rich Native history.

Explorers, missionaries, trappers, gold prospectors and post/roadhouse proprietors came and went. Upon the building of fort Richardson Army Base during WWII settlement in the area by non-natives began.

The name Chugiak comes from the Athapaskan word meaning "Place of Many Places". Communities include Eagle River, Fire Lake, Birchwood, Chugiak, Peter;s Creek and Eklutna.

In 1970 the population had grown to 5,000 and continued to grow to 25,000 in the 1980's. Currently the area is called home to approximately 32,000 people; most certainly a growing and developing community in Alaska

As the community expands it is important to remember, preserve and record its beginnings and changes though time.

Programs and Projects

• Photograph cataloging and preservation.

• Early newspaper publication preservation.

• Recording life stories of pioneers and settlers of the area.

• Making early stories and photos available to the public on DVD's

• School education programs of local area histories.

• Scholarships to aid students from the area in their education.

• Publications of calendars, books and news-letters.

• Promote, support and participate in community events including the Pioneer dinner.

• Continuing to record and preserve the moments of our growing community.

History of CERHS

CERHS was established in September 1996 by a group of school teachers and community members who recognized the importance of preserving the early history of the Chugiak Eagle River area. the Society began to preserve old photos and newspaper articles. Video and audio tapes were created to document the history of the community as it grew and developed.

The Society has maintained a strong focus on education and youth achievement. Programs have included History Day Projects, school presentations and Scholarships.

CERHS is continuing to grow and be recognized for the work preformed in preserving the early history of the area for all to share and enjoy.

Be Part of the CERHS Family
click here for a membership application or to donate to the society