Fairbanks in Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska — Northwest (North America)
Steamer Nenana in World War II
Photographed by William Fischer, Jr., August 17, 2024
1. Steamer Nenana in World War II Marker
The SS Nenana fulfilled a significant role during World War II. She transported equipment and personnel needed to construct airfields and other military installments, including facilities and aircraft for the Lend Lease Act of 1941. She supplied Galena Air Base, from which fighter aircraft were supplied to the Soviet Union.
Steamboats were the easiest way to move bulky equipment and tons of materials. Thousands of troops and construction personnel had to be transported to places in Alaska like Tanacross, Ruby and Galena. The SS Nenana proved highly effective in the war effort transporting building materials, military supplies and men between Canada and Alaska.
Erected by Fairbanks North Star Borough Parks and Recreation.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Patriots & Patriotism • War, World II • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical year for this entry is 1941.
Location. 64° 50.344′ N, 147° 46.333′ W. Marker is in Fairbanks, Alaska, in Fairbanks North Star Borough. It can be reached from Airport Way. Marker and Steamer Nenana are in Pioneer Park.
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Regionally, this marker is in the Alaska Railroad Corridor, in the Athabascan Region, and in Interior Alaska. It is also on the American Pacific Coast. Globally, it is in North America, the Pacific Rim, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Russian Empire.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: SS Nenana's Three Captains (here, next to this marker); Jack Williams (here, next to this marker); Practical Shipbuilding (here, next to this marker); "Last Lady of the River" (a few steps from this marker); The Steamer S. S. Nenana (a few steps from this marker); Sherwin Home (within shouting distance of this marker); Allen Cabin (within shouting distance of this marker); Eva's Place (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Fairbanks.
Also see . . . Friends of S.S. Nenana. (Submitted on September 12, 2024, by William Fischer, Jr. of Reynoldsburg, Ohio.)
Photographed by William Fischer, Jr., August 17, 2024
2. Steamer Nenana in World War II Marker
Photographed by William Fischer, Jr., August 17, 2024
3. Steamer Nenana in World War II
Credits. This page was last revised on May 23, 2025. It was originally submitted on September 12, 2024, by William Fischer, Jr. of Reynoldsburg, Ohio. This page has been viewed 176 times since then and 20 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on September 12, 2024, by William Fischer, Jr. of Reynoldsburg, Ohio.
