The contractor is rebuilding where needed and painting. There is a lot more to be done but work is finally able to move forward.
Contractor Progress: Rebuilding and Painting Essentials
News
The Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly unanimously voted to accept the congressionally delegated appropriation from U.S Sen. Lisa Murkowski’s office, which the Friends of SS Nenana secured in 2024 to start repair and painting of the hull in 2027.
We are very excited that there will finally be progress made on painting the boat. The money will go toward repairing and painting the boat’s hull, with work starting in 2027.
The bow was rebuilt in 2026 and is now open to the public.
Tours will be conducted on the upper decks once we receive final approval from the FNSB to start!
There is still work to be done, but we have come a long way since the Nenana’s closure in 2018 due to safety issues and the possibility of demolition.
We want to thank all the people who have supported us and this project, financially and with their voices, and the Fairbanks North Star Borough for recognizing the importance of saving this National Historic Landmark.
The Nenana is the last wooden hull sternwheeler in the nation! She is truly the Last Lady of the River.
Brownie and Ice Cream Sale Fundraiser
June 13, from Noon to 4:00 PM
Come and see us on opening day, May 23rd
Meet People from all over the World and Our Locals While Volunteering on the Nenana Cargo Deck
Do you enjoy meeting new people from all over the world and our wonderful Fairbanks locals? Some of those locals share stories of the Nenana when she was in service.
We need volunteers on the cargo deck this summer! The cargo deck will be open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We will have two shifts, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
The Cargo Deck opens Memorial Day Weekend until Labor Day.
