Explore Our History

Moosemeat John's Cabin

At the corner of Main Street and Overland - Given the name of "Moosemeat John" for hunting moose to feed his thirteen children, John Hedberg homesteaded with his family in Nikiski, often sharing the success of his efforts. The cabin was donated to the Kenai Chamber of Commerce in 1976 and relocated to Kenai, where it stands today.

Holy Assumption of Saint Mary Russian Orthodox Church

The church itself was established 1894, and the current building was constructed in 1894-96. In 1970, the church site was declared a National Historic Landmark (one of 50 in Alaska). The church is one of the oldest Russian Orthodox churches in Alaska.

The Church is available to view, for more information, call 907-283-4122

Parish House Rectory

The Parish House Rectory was built in 1881 and is believed to be the oldest original building on the Kenai Peninsula. This is home to the priest of the Russian Orthodox Church. The buildings of Holy Assumption represent "fine" examples of a Russian village church and the type of home provincial Russian gentry would inhabit.

Chapel of Saint Nicholas

The chapel was built as a tribute to Igumen (Abbot) Nikolai, first missionary in the Kenai area. With the aid of his two assistants, Father Nikolai was responsible for bringing the smallpox vaccine to the Kenai Peninsula and vaccinating many people in the fight against this deadly disease.

Oskolkof/Dolchok Cabin
(Veronica's Cafe)

Build in 1918 as a home to the Oskolkof and Dolchok family. The cabin is a good example of what houses looked like in Kenai during that time. It is located where the Russian Redoubt (Fort) Nikolaevsk once stood. Veronica's is also located at the site where the "Battle of Kenai" took place in the summer of 1797 in which the Denaina natives attacked the Russian fort resulting in over 100 deaths from both sides.

Kenai Firehall/Jail

Built in 1955 as the Firehall, two years later a jail was added to the rear of the building. After the Kenai Police and Fire Departments moved to their new facility in 1973, this building was leased to the Kenai Arts & Humanities Council. In 1980 it was renovated into a gallery and workshop for community artists and potters. It is now called the Kenai Fine Arts Center.