Auction Alert: Carr Family Journey
Contributed by Jillyan Hendrickson, Webb Auction & Appraisal
Over 6 decades have passed since Red and Mary Carr chased their dream purchasing a potato farm along Fairview Loop Road in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley; land previously owned by Mary’s uncle, Ted Knutson. They had never farmed before, but boldly accepted the challenge of becoming potato farmers. They joined a partnership with Mary’s brother and sister-in-law, to begin their new venture.
In the spring of 1962, months after their arrival from Tacoma, Washington, they cashed out of the Knutson land to buy the homestead of Herb and Jewel Holstein (parents of Ruby Church - namesake of Wasilla’s familiar Church Road). The Carr’s newly acquired 120-acre plot, had previously been operating as a dairy farm. The soil was fertile and ideal to grow potatoes.
Red began his career at B&C Supply in 1964, the major auto parts store in the Valley at the time. He became a first-rate parts man. He retired after 30 years as their operations Manager and every customer knew the name Red Carr. Since the age of 14, cars were his passion. He’s owned many classics, which he still loves tinkering on at the age of 92. He’s been a member of the 49th State Street Rodders for years and had entered his 54 Mercury in several of their car shows.
Mary has also led a colorful life as an Alaskan pioneer. During her early years in the Valley, she always planted a large garden, processed and canned moose and vegetables, and picked berries to sustain the family through the winter. Making time for fun, in the mid 60s, she became a member of the Plump Stump Sister’s Band. Mary played the washboard. They dressed the part as hillbilly homesteaders and had great fun performing.
Their home still showcases the 1930’s Sears Roebuck Model 200 wood-fired cook stove that Mary honed her skills at wood-fired baking when they first arrived in Alaska. Mary later enjoyed a career as the Head Baker at the Mat-Su School District. She is not only known as an excellent baker, but an artist as well. She spent many years oil painting and firing ceramics that featured her painted Alaskan scenes.
In the 80’s, they subdivided their property which connects to Fairview Loop Road. The Carrs remain a close-knit family. To this day, they and their three adult children Gary, Paula, and John live on the Carr family land. Both 92 years old and still active today, Red and Mary can be seen every weekday at the Wasilla Area Seniors Center for lunch. Every Friday and Saturday evening without fail at the American Legion Post 15, Red sings old-time country western karaoke songs. They are truly living their best lives.
As they downsize you can bid on many of the items featured in this article such as the 1930s Sears & Ro. Stove, Artwork and more during there living estate online auction.
Open thru August 1st at 1pm Bid online at www.webbauctionak.com
www.webbauctionak.com 907-232-0602