Dawson City
 Dawson
City is a buzz of activity during the summer months. Tourists from all
over the world either make it their destination, or pass through on
their way over the Top of The World Highway to Alaska. The town, which
was established on the banks of the Yukon River in 1897, exploded to
forty thousand inhabitants the next year when news of the gold strike
on Bonanza Creek reached the outside world, making it the largest city
west of Winnipeg and north of Seattle. It was the capital of the Yukon
Territory until 1953 and today is a national historic site. Many of
the buildings have been restored to their original grandeur, and new
structures are built to reflect the historical theme, adding to the
charm and appeal of this community one hundred and fifty miles south
of the Arctic Circle.
Besides tourism, mining continues to
provide employment for many, albeit seasonally. As the world price of
gold fluctuates so does activity around the creeks and the summer
population of Dawson. The Tr'on dek Hwech'in Band, comprised of Han
people have occupied this area for thousands of years, fishing and
hunting from a summer camp at the confluence of the Klondike and Yukon
Rivers. When the gold seekers poured into the area, under the strong
leadership of Chief Isaac, the Han established a thriving village at
Moosehide just down the river from Dawson, to avoid the influence of
the growing city. They have ultimately returned to the larger town and
play a very active role in the economic activities and development of
Dawson City.
Dawson City boasts most amenities of a
thriving town including 24-hour automated teller service, with high
standards for tourist related services. Hotels and restaurants provide
top-notch accommodation and dining for their clientele. In summer a
ferry service provides passage for pedestrians and vehicles across the
Yukon River to the start of the Top of the World Highway. |
