Gold Rushes & Crow Creek Mine (1896)
Originally named 'Glacier City', Girdwood was established as a supply camp for gold miners working claims along Crow Creek. The town was later renamed in honor of James Girdwood, who operated the area's largest gold mining claims.
Good Friday Earthquake Relocation (1964)
The historic 1964 magnitude 9.2 earthquake caused the coastal land around Girdwood to drop by over 6 feet. The original townsite flooded at high tide, forcing the community to relocate 2.5 miles inland to its current location.
Development of Mount Alyeska Resort
In 1954, a group of ski enthusiasts purchased land on Mount Alyeska, installing the first chairlift and ski chalets. This laid the foundation for the community's modern identity as a winter ski and summer recreation destination.