Introduction of a solo Interior Alaskan Homesteader

This website has been informative. I’ve only recently discovered it and it’s been a wealth of information and entertainment.

I figured I’d write an introduction post should there be like minded folks in the Delta Junction region of the state looking to build their network.

I’ve read some posts of many who come to Alaska with dreams and plans to build a log cabin and live off grid. After several years of homesteading and career pursuits in Missouri I realized the joy and challenges of the lifestyle required a certain measure of balance. By that, I mean I knew what worked for me was some rawness and some refinement.

4 years ago my plan was to farm, own land and just enjoy a meaningful existence on my tax free slice of heaven. After spending time with the Alaskan agricultural community, learning about Arctic building techniques, enduring below zero temps to as much as -50, and just getting to familiar with the state, my plans changed. The locals were great teachers since most have spent their entire lives in these regions and others migrated up with a wealth of knowledge of farming commercially in the lower 48.

2022 will be a new beginning. Despite inflation and rising interest rates I’m finally in a position to build a home and start my homestead. An Arctic capable stick built home with the help of a local builder with the experience building air tight homes that captures much of the Cold Climate Housing Research information that’s available online.

I’ve found the CCHRC website to be very informative. I’ve learned more about wall construction and insulation than I ever knew existed. Shame on me for being an engineer yet never asking myself what building technologies could improve thermal efficiency in home. Haha. Of course it’s only in this state where I’ll see a significant need compared to my previous climates.

For those considering owning land, I’ve been encouraging friends to think outside the box. The land I purchased was not for sale. It took a lot of online research and Facebook investigating to locate the surviving owners. It put a smile on my face when I eventually was able to talk to the son-in-law and he stated they had no plans for the land so they rather see someone else enjoy it. He asked for me to make him an offer and the rest is history.

Thank you for taking time to share this.

Woow! Alaska...surely a dream of many homesteaders to be in such remote and pristine areas. Nice to hear there is a community of people there. Good luck with your build.

Please share any resources you may on the building of these super insulated walls and homes.

bee well

Thanks for the pointers! Didn't know, or keep forgetting, about the CCHRC folks ...

http://cchrc.org/
http://cchrc.org/library/

Always trying to figure out how to stay warm here in S. Colorado (at 7400') ...

Tru Hues wrote:This website has been informative. I’ve only recently discovered it and it’s been a wealth of information and entertainment.

I figured I’d write an introduction post should there be like minded folks in the Delta Junction region of the state...

Hello up there! I am fondly imagining the Delta junction library and the local flavor of that beautiful place!
I used to live on the Maclaren River west of Paxson and enjoyed the trips necessary that brought me through there; enroute to emergency vet. visits usually. I still have an apron from the quilter who had a shop in the plaza there, an awesome screenprint with a dog musher and a team in Aurora.

As far as i know, my former boss/ bushpilot relocated and now lives in your community.  I would be so curious to hear how you are loving the winter!🔥
💙
many blessings upon your path.