Elonore’s Early Years & Homesteading in Alaska

Find out how Elonore Cunningham Riedel came to Alaska and homesteaded by herself in this 7-minute presentation. Through audio clips, Elonore tells her story in her own voice and explains why she eventually donated her homestead to Arctic Audubon Society. Listen to the full interview with Elonore in the link at the bottom of this page.

Elonore’s Story & Gift that Created the Audubon Riedel Nature Reserve

History of the Audubon Riedel Nature Reserve & Plans for the Future (1984-2024)

The history of the Nature Reserve has taken many twists and turns. Arctic Audubon Society has always dreamed big, worked hard, and continues to have exciting plans for the future of this beautiful Nature Reserve. Read through this history in PDF format.

Audubon Riedel Nature Reserve—Past, Present and Future

An Interview with Elonore Riedel

In 1986, Mary Zalar (formerly Fritts) and Bill Schneider, UAF Professor Emeritus, visited with Elonore Riedel at her home adjacent to what would become the Audubon Riedel Nature Reserve. At the time, Bill was curator of oral history and associate in anthropology at the UAF Rasmuson Library. In this interview, Elonore talks about what brought her to Alaska, why this land is special to her, and how she homesteaded the 160 acres which she and husband Charles eventually gifted to Arctic Audubon Society. About 15 minutes into the interview, Jane N. Williams joined the discussion. Jane is another longtime Alaskan and historian who homesteaded in Central and also lived in Fairbanks. Listen and enjoy!