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The History
Even before Alaska became a State in the Union, the hearty individuals living in Alaska would meet each winter for a celebration called Fur Rendezvous. They would often travel in from their remote home sites to conduct business, renew acquaintances, and party. One of the most popular events around the time of Fur Rondy has always been the Miner's and Trapper's Ball which began in 1950. The M&T Ball is a charity event sponsored by the Alaska Lions Club with all proceeds going to various local charities. People used to stand in line for hours in the sub zero temperatures to get tickets to this iconic Alaskan event. The Ball consisted of a highly competitive costume contest, music and dancing, food and beverages, friendship, and of course the annual Mr. Fur Face Competition. The fashions of the Gold Rush and the flair of Mardi Gras combine for a uniquely Alaskan event
The history of beards in Alaska dates back to the influx of Russian traders who came to this land, which was still part of the great Russian Empire at that time, in search of wealth from animal furs, ivory, and oils. Alaska was bought from the Russians in 1867 for 7.2 million dollars which worked out to 2 cents per acre. The purchase was known by many as Seward's Folly, as it was viewed as a mistake to have spent so much money on such a remote region. Gold was discovered in the 1890s in the Yukon Territory, Canada, and in Alaska. This was the start of the great Gold Rush era and brought many more hearty men from around the world looking to stake their claim to the riches of the North. Most of these Stampeders never struck it rich and many perished due to realities of the untamed arctic. The gold rush was a very colorful time in Alaskan history. Alaska was granted Territorial Status in 1912 and became the 49th State in the Union in January 3rd,1959.
Bearded men have always sort of been symbolic of the wild Alaskan landscape and mentality. Beards were helpful in the winter months as a way to keep warmer when out prospecting, hunting, or exploring. While very few Alaskans truly live off the land in small shacks or homesteads these days, the lure of the beard still is present in many outdoorsmen.
The Contest
Many of these colorful characters still gather each year in Anchorage for the Mr. Fur Face Competition. The contestants are organized into different categories primarily based on beard color. The categories include: Black Bear, Brown Bear, Honey Bear, Polar Bear (white), Pole Cat (white/ mixed), Red Fox, Wolf or Suave (close cropped), Soupstrainer (moustache), Mountain Goat (goatee), and Ptarmigan (anything goes).
The winners of each category are then brought up on to the stage for the final judging for the title of Mr. Fur Face, deemed as the best beard in Alaska for that year. There is mutual respect between competitors but in the end there can be only one Mr. Fur Face. Judging is by a panel of three individuals with experience with beards, either owners of beards, or hairstylists/ barbers, or occasionally local celebrities. Awards consist of first and second place plaques to the winners of each category. The grand champion, Mr. Fur Face, is awarded a special plaque and is able to wear the original Mr. Fur Face Hat and leads the parade of champions throughout the Ball. If he is able to win 3 titles within 5 years, he is awarded a trophy for his accomplishments.
Audience participation is greatly encouraged and the "beard fondlers" add a bit of merriment to the judging. It is a true statement of endurance for this event to have survived for so long. One reason for the longevity of the Miner's and Trapper's Ball is our ability to put personal differences aside for the greater good of the event and the charities that it helps support. We hope that you will join us here in Anchorage for the M&T Ball or for the 2009 World Championships. If you have any questions please email us at --- bob@akbeardclub.com! |
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