Interior Alaska News

Earlier this week, U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) paid tribute to the Miller Family, the longstanding proprietors of the Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska. This recognition took place on the Senate floor as part of Senator Sullivan's "Alaskan of the Week" series.

The Santa Claus House was established by Con and Nellie Miller over 70 years ago and has since become a prominent tourist attraction in Interior Alaska. It draws thousands of visitors annually from around the globe, offering them a taste of Christmas magic at the real North Pole. Over the decades, the Millers have been active community members while spreading holiday cheer year-round.

Senator Sullivan remarked on his tradition of highlighting Alaskans who contribute positively to their state. He shared stories about various honorees, ranging from librarians to world-class athletes. In this instance, he focused on the unique legacy of the Miller family and their contributions through the Santa Claus House.

He detailed how letters addressed to Santa at the North Pole are delivered to this iconic establishment in North Pole, AK. He also noted that a city council member there is legally named Santa Claus and has ties with Bernie Sanders' socialist ideals due to his penchant for gift-giving.

The Miller family's history dates back four generations when Con Miller first donned a Santa suit while selling clothes in rural villages near Fairbanks. In 1952, they founded a trading post south of Fairbanks that eventually evolved into today's Santa Claus House.

The store became more than just a retail outlet; it served as a community hub with amenities like a soda fountain and mail services under Nellie Miller's management. The family lived above their store and played integral roles in its operations.

As North Pole expanded, so did the Santa Claus House's focus on Christmas-themed offerings. The Millers became influential figures within both their local community and broader Interior Alaska region. Con Miller held office as mayor for 19 years while Nellie served as marriage commissioner—a role once significant within their community.

Terry and Mike Miller followed suit into politics; Terry became State Senate President before serving as Lieutenant Governor in 1978 whereas Mike led legislative duties from 1983-2001—both earning respect across political lines throughout Alaska’s history.

Today’s generation continues upholding these traditions: Mike looks forward to passing leadership onto daughter Carissa along with son-in-law Paul plus several grandchildren involved too—all contributing towards maintaining festive spirit alive at this family-run business employing between forty-six employees annually!

Besides attracting tourists worldwide thanks largely due its charm alone—their efforts extend beyond commerce via organizing food drives benefiting Fairbanks Food Bank among other charitable initiatives aimed helping those need most during holiday season & beyond!

Mike stated: “I think we have really worked hard bringing spirit [of] giving family caring about one another… hope done small slice helping people realize Christmas [is] caring giving being good neighbors.”

Their dedication resonates deeply throughout entire state—and even beyond—as they’ve managed spread joy wonder associated Christmastime far wide possible last seven decades running strong today!

Senator Sullivan concluded by expressing gratitude towards Millers alongside congratulating them achieving distinction "Alaskan Week," recognizing invaluable impact made keeping essence holidays alive not only locally but globally alike every single day year round here great state Alaska!