Alaska has produced some remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. From designing the state's flag to excelling in sports and making strides in civil rights, these ten Alaskans have made their mark not only in the state but also on the national and international stages.
1. Benny Benson
From: Chignik, Alaska
Born in Chignik in 1912 or 1913, Benny Benson made history at 14 by designing Alaska's flag in 1927. Despite his young age, his design was adopted as the official flag for the Territory of Alaska and later for the State of Alaska. His contribution remains a proud symbol of the state's heritage.
2. Hilary Lindh
From: Juneau, Alaska
Hilary Lindh, a Juneau native born on May 10, 1969, is celebrated as an accomplished World Cup alpine ski racer and Olympic medalist. Learning to ski at Eaglecrest Ski Area, she grew to become a world champion, shining a spotlight on Alaska's potential in winter sports.
3. Jewel
From: Homer, Alaska (Raised)
Though born in Payson, Utah, on May 23, 1974, Jewel was raised near Homer, Alaska. Her Alaskan upbringing influenced her successful career as a singer-songwriter, musician, and author, making her one of the most recognized voices in pop music.
4. Scott Gomez
From: Anchorage, Alaska
Born in Anchorage on December 23, 1979, Scott Gomez rose to fame in the National Hockey League. Drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 1998, he was a key player in their Stanley Cup victory and became a celebrated Alaskan athlete.
5. Tommy Moe
From: Girdwood, Alaska (Raised)
Tommy Moe, who refined his skiing skills in Alaska at Alyeska, near Anchorage, was born in Missoula, Montana. He made history at the 1994 Winter Olympics by becoming the first U.S. man to win two Alpine Olympic medals in a single year.
6. Susan Butcher
From: Fairbanks, Alaska (Resident)
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Susan Butcher moved to Alaska and became a sled dog racing legend. She won the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race four times, demonstrating her unparalleled skill and endurance in one of the most challenging sports.
7. Libby Riddles
From: Teller, Alaska (Resident)
Libby Riddles, born in Madison, Wisconsin, moved to Alaska before her 17th birthday. She became the first woman to win the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in 1985, a groundbreaking achievement in the world of dog mushing.
8. Curt Schilling
From: Anchorage, Alaska
Born on November 14, 1966, in Anchorage, Curt Schilling is a celebrated baseball pitcher. He led the Philadelphia Phillies to a World Series appearance and won a championship with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Boston Red Sox, making him one of Alaska's most famous athletes.
9. Valerie Plame
From: Anchorage, Alaska
Valerie Plame, born in Anchorage, is a former CIA officer and author. Her career in the CIA involved undercover operations, and her experience has been captured in her authored spy novels and memoirs, highlighting her intriguing and challenging life in intelligence.
10. Mary Peltola
From: Bethel, Alaska
Born in Bethel, Alaska, Mary Peltola serves in the U.S. House of Representatives. As an Alaskan Native, she represents both the state of Alaska and its indigenous heritage, marking a significant milestone in political representation.
