Seward's Day commemorates a pivotal moment in American history when the United States acquired Alaska from Russia, shaping the nation's geopolitical and economic future. This state holiday, celebrated in Alaska, honors William H. Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State who negotiated the Alaska Purchase.

Table of Contents

1. When is Seward's Day?
2. The History of Seward's Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. William H. Seward

When is Seward's Day?

Seward's Day is observed annually on the last Monday of March in the state of Alaska. This holiday commemorates the signing of the Alaska Purchase Treaty on March 30, 1867, when the United States acquired Alaska from Russia.

The following is the list of Seward's Day:

The History of Seward's Day?

Seward's Day commemorates one of the most significant territorial acquisitions in United States history: the Alaska Purchase. The holiday is named after William H. Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867.

On March 30, 1867, the United States and Russia signed the Treaty of Cession, transferring Alaska to the U.S. for $7.2 million, which is approximately two cents per acre. The treaty was signed by Secretary of State William H. Seward and Russian Minister Eduard de Stoeckl.

Russia sought to sell Alaska due to its remote location and limited resources for defense, and Seward, a strong proponent of U.S. expansion, recognized Alaska's potential for natural resources, strategic value, and territorial growth. However, the acquisition was initially mocked as "Seward's Folly" and "Seward's Icebox," as many Americans viewed Alaska as a barren, frozen wasteland.

Over time, the discovery of gold, oil, and other natural resources vindicated Seward's vision. After the purchase, Alaska became a U.S. territory in 1912, drawing settlers for its abundant resources and economic opportunities.

On January 3, 1959, Alaska was admitted as the 49th state of the United States.

Seward's Day was established as a state holiday in Alaska to honor the signing of the Alaska Purchase Treaty and William H. Seward's role in securing the territory. It is observed annually on the last Monday of March, aligning with the date of the treaty signing on March 30, 1867.

What Do People Do on This Day?

Seward's Day is primarily celebrated in Alaska as a state holiday, but it is not a major public event day.

Schools and libraries often hold programs, lectures, or exhibits focused on the history of the Alaska Purchase, William H. Seward's contributions, and Alaska's journey to statehood.

Community centers and local organizations host events that celebrate Alaskan culture, including traditional Native Alaskan art, music, and storytelling.

Museums like the Alaska State Museum or local historical societies often provide special exhibits or discounted entry for the day.

Some people will take the opportunity to visit the town of Seward, named after William H. Seward, located on the Kenai Peninsula. It's a hub for tourism and outdoor activities.

William H. Seward

William H. Seward (1801–1872) was a prominent American statesman, diplomat, and visionary leader whose career spanned pivotal moments in U.S. history. He is best remembered for orchestrating the Alaska Purchase, earning him recognition as one of the architects of American expansionism.

He was born on May 16, 1801, in Florida, New York, and attended Union College in Schenectady, New York, graduating in 1820. Seward became a lawyer and quickly gained a reputation for his eloquence and dedication to justice.

He served as the Governor of New York from 1839 to 1842, and the U.S. Senate from 1849 to 1861, when he gained national attention for his "Higher Law" speech, emphasizing moral justice over constitutional law in opposing slavery.

Appointed by President Abraham Lincoln, Seward served as the Secretary of State during one of the most turbulent periods in U.S. history, the Civil War, from 1861 to 1869. In 1867, he negotiated with Russia to acquire Alaska for $7.2 million. This purchase added over 586,000 square miles to U.S. territory, making it one of the largest land acquisitions in history.

On October 10, 1872, he passed away in Auburn, New York.