Learn about Alaska in the Morris Thompson Cultural Center

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Moran B
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Photo by Carrie Yang on Unsplash

Opened in 2008 in Fairbanks, Alaska, this establishment is the result of a cross-organizational partnership that came together to create cultural programs, land information, and a discovery package teaching tourists about the lifestyle of those who live in Interior and Arctic Alaska.

The center is named after Morris Thompson, who was born in 1939 and was appointed commissioner of the Bureau of Indian Affairs at the age of 34 after serving as Special Assistant for the BIA in Washington. A great tribute to a great man, or “Big”, as he was nicknamed.

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These words left a deep impression on my mind, “ To lead people from different backgrounds towards finding common ground on which to build trust and unity.” “Work together on commonalities and celebrate our diversity.” In these times of extreme polarization, intensifying globally, can we call those who relentlessly drive division, stir tensions and pit people against each other as true leaders? How did our silence help political rot take root – fanning religious and racial flames, increasing hate crimes and violence? Is there a lack of honest voices who can find common ground on which to build trust? If you think about it, divisions exist naturally among all groups because of our complex human nature. Reminded of a quote by Mahatma Gandhi, “Our ability to reach ‘unity in diversity’ will be the beauty and test of our civilization.” The Morris Thompson Cultural Center is a tribute to Morris Thompson, a prominent leader and a notable person who left his mark on Alaska. People who have met him describe a man who remembered their names and paid attention while he spoke to them, no matter who they were. He treated everyone with respect. He was a bridge between different cultures. I’d say great qualities to emulate! #alaska #fairbanks #sharingalaska #morristhompsonculturalcenter #downtown #travelphotography #memorable #travelgram #iphonography #shotoniphone #winter #holiday #thoughts #travelblogger #travelalaska #photo #lovealaska #traveldiary #unity #diversity #buildingbridges #coexist #peace #commonground #gandhi #mahatmagandhi

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Admission is free and will give you access to permanent and temporary exhibits, introducing visitors to the locals’ way of living, including local art and craft items. You’ll also be able to talk to a ranger at the Fairbanks Alaska Public Lands Information Center, ask them for advice on hiking in the area, buy maps, and even borrow a beer barrel. The rangers also run a program of tours in the area, talking about the history of the land, and presenting the local wildlife. 

If you’re coming with little ones, don’t forget to ask for a Junior Ranger Badge as a keepsake.