We have opted to provide this classic short film from Pierre Berton which depicts the Klondike gold rush at its peak, when would-be prospectors struggled through harsh conditions to reach the fabled gold fields over 3000 km north of civilization. Using a collection of still photographs, the film juxtaposes the Dawson City at the height of the gold rush with its bustling taverns and dance halls with the more tranquil Dawson City of the present.

Directed by Wolf Koenig & Colin Low – 1957

 

 Pierre Berton, journalist, historian, media personality (born at Whitehorse, YT 12 July 1920; died at Toronto, Ont 30 Nov 2004). Berton was among Canada’s best-known writers and was particularly well regarded as a serious popularizer of Canadian history.

Click the link to learn more about Mr. Berton and to read: “The Rest of the Story“

We will, in Episode 5, in a few days, present some interesting photos and another video on the Klondike and the Gold Rush of 1898 before continuing with our story of the exploration of Alaska on our recent cruise…see you soon.