Visit the Kilcher Family Homestead: Things To Do in Homer Alaska
Charlotte Kilcher, a cherished member of our community, generously shared a story in "The Art of Growing Peonies." This book isn't just a guide to growing beautiful blooms—it's your personal invite to the annual Homer Alaska Peony Celebration, opening a window into the vibrant world of Alaska's peonies.
If you're dreaming of wandering through Charlotte's enchanting peony garden, the best time to visit is from mid-July through August. While you're planning your visit, consider staying at the Kilcher Family Homestead or explore other cozy accommodations in the area (links below). It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and warm hospitality that Homer is known for.
The Kilcher Family Homestead on Kachemak Bay
This is where the untamed wilderness meets civilization's border. It's a place where the adventurous spirit lives on and a family's homesteading heritage carries on for generations. Here, you'll find adventure, history, and memories that will stay with you forever.
Discovery Channel's Alaska: The Last Frontier is about the Kilcher family's self-sufficient lifestyle. They live in the Alaskan wilderness without modern amenities. They farm, hunt, and fish to survive. They face challenges like harsh weather and isolation.
The show focuses on them managing their cattle, growing crops, and hunting for food. They have a solid connection to the land and live sustainably.
The Kilcher Homestead is in Fritz Creek, 12 miles from Homer.
In the late 1940s, Yule Kilcher stood at the edge of a decision that would change his life forever. Driven by a vision of self-sufficiency and a yearning to escape the turmoil of post-war Europe, he dreamed of a life in the untamed wilderness of Alaska. But Yule wasn’t alone in his dream.
In Switzerland, he met Ruth Weber, a woman who shared his adventurous spirit and passion for a life connected to the land. Their shared ideals drew them together, and soon they embarked on a journey that would forever shape their family’s legacy.
After their marriage, Yule and Ruth left the familiar comforts of Switzerland behind and set out for Alaska. The journey was long and uncertain, but their hearts were full of hope. When they arrived on the Kenai Peninsula, they found a landscape as wild and beautiful as they had imagined. Together, they claimed a piece of land near Homer and began building what would become the Kilcher homestead.
Life in Alaska was not easy. The winters were harsh, the summers relentless with work, and every day brought new challenges. But Yule and Ruth thrived on the strength of their partnership. They focused on building the homestead and navigating the rugged terrain and Ruth brought warmth and creativity to their home. She was a musician, a teacher, and a visionary in her own right, instilling in their children a love of music, education, and the natural world.
Over the years, the Kilcher homestead grew into a sanctuary of self-sufficiency, a testament to their resilience and determination. Yule and Ruth raised eight children in this wilderness, teaching them not only how to survive but also how to thrive in harmony with nature. Their story became intertwined with the land itself, a living legacy of their dreams and hard work.
Today, the spirit of Yule and Ruth Kilcher lives on. Visitors to Homer can explore the very homestead that the Kilchers built, walking the land where their story unfolded. It’s a story of love, courage, and a shared vision that brought two people together and created a legacy that continues to inspire all who encounter it.
Visitors to Homer Alaska can explore the very homestead that the Kilchers built, walking the land where their story unfolded. It’s a story of love, courage, and a shared vision that brought two people together and created a legacy that continues to inspire all who encounter it.
The Kilcher Homestead Living Museum
The Kilcher Homestead Living Museum is part of the legacy of Yule and Ruth Kilcher.
The museum displays tools and artifacts used by the family and shows how they lived. They faced challenges while living off the land. It's a unique chance to go back in time. You can walk in the footsteps of these Alaskan pioneers.
The museum showcases the Kilcher's self-sufficient way of life, allowing visitors to observe and understand how this family thrives in harmony with nature.
The experience is enriched by guided tours led by one of the Kilcher siblings. These tours provide an intimate look at the daily routines and survival techniques that are a part of the family's life in Alaska.
These tours provide an intimate look at the daily routines and survival techniques that are a part of the family's life in Alaska.
Kilcher Family Impact on Alaska
The Kilcher family has influenced Alaska through their music, fame, and contributions to Alaska state history.
Yule Kilcher, the head of the family, had a big part in creating Alaska's constitution. In the 1950s, Yule showed the family's pioneer lifestyle in a documentary film. Their reality TV series, "Alaska: The Last Frontier," has made their way of life known worldwide. Their determination and strength are an inspiration.
Jewel Kilcher, Atz Kilcher's daughter, is a famous singer-songwriter. She grew up in a musical family, and her success has had a long-lasting impact on the music scene in Alaska. Jewel gained fame with the breakthrough album "Pieces of You" in 1995.
The Kilcher family often participates in the Homer music scene - parts of the family have recently appeared at The Kannery Restaurant on the Sterling Highway, the Down East Saloon on East End Road, and AJ’s Steakhouse in Old Town Homer.
Stay on the Kilcher Family Homestead
Consider renting a cabin on the Homestead for a deep immersion in the Kilcher family's lifestyle.
The Kilcher Family Homestead is a living testament to the pioneering spirit of Alaska. In this place, history, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty come together in harmony.
From exploring the family's homestead and learning about their self-sufficient lifestyle to participating in hands-on workshops and activities, visiting the Kilcher Homestead offers an unforgettable experience for all ages.
With the nearby attractions of Homer and Kachemak Bay and comfortable accommodations on or near the homestead, your Alaskan adventure awaits. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore this unique destination and discover the indomitable spirit of the Kilcher family.
Where can You stay Close to the Kilcher Homestead?
Frequently Asked Questions:
How far is the Kilcher Homestead from Homer?
The Kilcher Homestead is located 12 miles away from the town of Homer, Alaska.
Do You need a reservation to visit the Kilcher Homestead?
Tours are by appointment only and can be made by calling
907-235-8713.
Should You Get Travel Insurance?
Traveling to Alaska is an incredible adventure, offering breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences, from exploring glaciers to spotting wildlife. While the rugged wilderness is part of the allure, it's wise to be prepared with travel insurance.
Since many of Alaska's most stunning spots are far from major medical centers, having medical evacuation coverage can ensure that you're taken care of even in the rare event of an emergency.
It's a small step that lets you thoroughly enjoy the thrill of exploring remote, beautiful destinations with complete peace of mind.