10/18/2026
Attorney Ken Barber loves two things: a good history lesson and a good deal.
And on October 18, 1867, the United States officially took possession of Alaska after purchasing the territory from Russia for $7.2 MILLION. 😲
That worked out to roughly two cents an acre for more than 375 million acres.
WHAT. A. DEAL. 😂
At the time, not everyone thought it was such a brilliant purchase. Critics famously referred to the acquisition as “Seward’s Folly,” after Secretary of State William H. Seward, who helped negotiate the agreement.
Fast-forward more than 150 years, and Alaska is our nation’s largest state, rich in natural resources, breathtaking landscapes, wildlife and history. 🏔️
We’re pretty sure if Ken had been practicing law in 1867, he would have looked at that contract and said:
“Wait… ALL of Alaska? For $7.2 million? Where do we sign?” 😂⚖️
Of course, one thing hasn’t changed in 159 years: READ THE FINE PRINT BEFORE YOU SIGN ANYTHING. 😉
Happy Alaska Day from your history-loving friends at Kenneth Barber & Associates!
And remember — whether it’s 1867 or 2026, having an attorney review the paperwork is probably a good idea. ⚖️📜