Great American Railroad Journeys (2016)

Episode Overview

Michael Portillo embarks on an adventure to the final frontier of the United States, equipped with his 1899 Appleton’s Guidebook to Alaska. He starts his exploration in the icy landscapes of the Kenai Peninsula, where he discovers a Russian Orthodox church adorned with golden onion domes, along with traditional Russian cuisine and attire, revealing that Alaska was once a Russian colony 150 years ago. In Seward, Michael interacts with a rescued sea otter pup, known for its strong bite, and learns about the immense value of their luxurious pelts in the past. While boating in Seward Harbour, he hears from a former indigenous Alaskan state senator about the sale of Alaska from the Russian Empire to the United States just before the publication of his guidebook. Continuing north on the Alaska Railroad, Michael explores the stunning lakes and glaciers along the 470-mile route and uncovers the challenges faced during its construction.