Alaska has long been a place of adventure, resilience, and pioneering spirits. And when it comes to women making history, the Last Frontier has no shortage of trailblazers who shaped its political, cultural, and environmental landscapes. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we honor the Alaskan women who fought for voting rights, led conservation efforts, and carved their own paths in the wilderness.
The Fight for Women’s Suffrage in Alaska
While the 19th Amendment granted women in the U.S. the right to vote in 1920, Alaska’s women won the right seven years earlier, in 1913—thanks to the tireless efforts of suffragists like Lena Morrow Lewis and Cornelia Hatcher.
Lena Morrow Lewis, a political organizer, traveled throughout Alaska in the early 1900s, giving passionate speeches about the importance of women’s rights. Her advocacy helped inspire the passage of the Shoup Women’s Suffrage Bill—the first bill signed into law by Alaska’s newly formed legislature in March 1913 (National Park Service).
However, not all women were granted voting rights. Alaska Native women were excluded until much later, as they had to renounce their cultural traditions in order to vote. The Alaska Native Sisterhood, formed in 1914, fought for Native women’s rights, land ownership, and citizenship. Their perseverance laid the groundwork for Indigenous activism that continues today.
Women Who Shaped Alaska’s Wilderness
Beyond politics, Alaska’s women have been explorers, scientists, and conservationists, helping to protect the land we now adventure through. Some of their legacies continue in Alaska’s national parks and wild places today:
- Margaret Murie, known as the “Grandmother of the Conservation Movement,” helped establish the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (USFWS).
- Mary Jane Fate, an Indigenous rights activist and founding member of the Fairbanks Native Association, worked to secure land rights for Alaska Natives through the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (National Park Service).
- Dr. Vera Alexander, an oceanographer, was the first female dean of the University of Alaska Fairbanks School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, shaping Alaska’s marine conservation policies (University of Alaska Fairbanks).
Books & Films Celebrating Alaska’s Women
Want to dive deeper into the stories of Alaska’s pioneering women? Check out these books and movies:
Books:
- Boots, Bikes, and Bombers: Adventures of Alaska Conservationist Ginny Wood by Karen Brewster (University of Alaska Press).
- A Woman’s Guide to the Wild by Ruby McConnell (Mountaineers Books).
Movies & Documentaries:
- The Edge of Nowhere – A documentary about Erin McKittrick, a modern-day explorer who traversed Alaska’s wilderness entirely on foot (Ground Truth Trekking).
- Molly of Denali (PBS Kids) – An animated show following Molly Mabray, an Alaska Native girl, growing up in a small village, inspired by real Indigenous communities (PBS Kids).
Places to Visit & Experience Women’s History in Alaska
For travelers wanting to connect with Alaska’s history firsthand, here are a few places to explore:
- Juneau-Douglas City Museum – Learn about the women of the Gold Rush era (Juneau Museums).
- Denali National Park & Preserve – Visit the Murie Science and Learning Center, named after Margaret Murie, to see how her conservation work continues today (National Park Service).
- Alaska Native Heritage Center (Anchorage) – Explore the legacies of Indigenous women leaders, storytellers, and artists (Alaska Native Heritage Center).
UnCruise Adventures: Leading with Diversity
At UnCruise Adventures, we are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the maritime industry. Our dedication is reflected in our crew composition, where we have a notable representation of female leaders. As of early 2025, we have three female captains out of ten, with expectations to increase this number as we approach the peak season in late April. Additionally, we proudly maintain seven female bridge officers across our fleet. This commitment aligns with our broader mission to provide enriching adventure travel experiences while promoting equality and representation (UnCruise Team).
Spotlight: Captain Ana of the Wilderness Adventurer
We are thrilled to introduce Captain Ana, our most recent female captain aboard the Wilderness Adventurer. The Wilderness Adventurer, a 60-guest vessel, has been thoughtfully revitalized to elevate the onboard experience, exceeding our commitment to safety and environmental regulations while preserving the adventurous spirit that UnCruise guests know and love.
Captain Ana's leadership exemplifies the spirit of exploration and dedication that UnCruise Adventures stands for. Her presence on the bridge not only inspires our crew but also enriches the experiences of our guests as they journey through Alaska's breathtaking landscapes.
Celebrate Women’s Achievements with Us
This International Women's Day, we invite you to join us in honoring the women who have shaped Alaska's past and those who continue to lead its future. At UnCruise Adventures, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all adventurers can explore, learn, and be inspired by the rich tapestry of stories that define the Last Frontier.
Embark on a voyage with us and experience firsthand the legacy of pioneering women in Alaska, guided by the trailblazers of today.
Book Your Next Adventure with UnCruise
Discover our Alaska small-ship adventures and be part of a journey that celebrates history, adventure, and leadership. Explore our itineraries today: UnCruise Alaska.
