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Circa 1904. Transportation on the Delta and Tanana rivers initiated commerce and settlement in this area. Furs, farming and fishing continue to play a major role in Delta's development.
From Valdez the roadhouse system grew.
Bates Landing at the confluence of the Delta and Tanana rivers was a warm and comforting stopover where travelers could cross the Tanana by ferry. In 1906 Bates Landing became Rika's Roadhouse, now in the National Register of Historic Places and the focal point of Big Delta State Historic Park.
Homesteading came to the then known Buffalo Center, named for the Bison herd relocated here in 1928. Bert and Mary Hanson among the first to settle here in 1939, their daughter Irene Mead is the first white baby born in the area. She's still there, playing a prominent role in local history and it's making.
During World War Two Delta became the northern terminus of the Al Can Highway. Built in 1942 at a cost of 115 million dollars, the fourteen hundred twenty two miles is the only road link between Alaska and our Canadian neighbors connecting us to the contiguous 48 States. From World War 2 to the present, petroleum products transported through pipelines have figured prominently in Delta's growth.
Gradual growth with booms that come and go Delta and its people perservere. Fur, gold, oil, agriculture and of course the military bring present day Delta Junction to crossroads once again.
This quiet little town dons a gown of gay wildflowers. Craft shops set out the fruits of a long winter. Merchants call your name and say hello. Breathtaking views all around - great fishing, fairs, festivals and year-round fun as the hearty friendly folks of Delta make ready to meet the eager visitor to Alaska.
