#talkeetna

[rabbitcruiser]

Alaska is admitted as the 49th U.S. state on January 3, 1959.

[theninjanavigator]

[immaculatelyamiss]

Talkeetna

[unteriors]

E Love Lee Lane, Talkeetna, Alaska.

[opendirectories]

[thelordismylightandmysalvation]

View of the Alaskan Range from Talkeetna, Alaska ~ Photography by Pam Braswell

[funbearer]

In the quaint town of Talkeetna, Alaska, a most unusual mayor captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike. Stubbs the cat began his unexpected political career in 1997 when local residents, dissatisfied with the human candidates, encouraged each other to vote for Stubbs as a write-in candidate. To the town's amusement and surprise, Stubbs won the election, beginning his tenure as Talkeetna's honorary mayor.

Stubbs' office was the counter of Nagley's General Store, where he would hold "office hours," often seen lounging in a bed on one of the counters or sipping catnip-laced water from a wine glass, a sight that delighted visitors and became a unique tourist attraction. His gentle demeanor and approachable presence made him a beloved figure who helped promote the town and drew visitors from all over the world.

Throughout his 20 years in office, Mayor Stubbs survived an attack by a dog, a fall into a cold fryer (which was thankfully switched off), and a close encounter with the wheel of a car. Despite these adventures, Stubbs continued to serve until his peaceful passing in 2017, leaving behind a legacy that exemplifies how even the smallest and unlikeliest candidates can leave a big impact on a community.

[seasonalwonderment]

Red Baneberry, Talkeetna, Alaska ~ Photography by Pam Braswell