The Queen of Fairbanks

by Tricia Brown

Born in an Alaska boomtown in 1911, Irene Sherman was the self-proclaimed Queen of Fairbanks. For decades, she roamed town in layers of clothing, loudly hailing passersby and scaring a few kids. Burn Scars spoke of long-ago tragedy and unthinkable pain. With digging, Tricia Brown discovered negligent parents, a horrific cabin fire, lost siblings... and a city with rare love for its rugged bag lady. They cheered her in parades, toasted her birthdays, and quietly guaranteed her independent lifestyle. Some may have viewed Irene as a pathetic street figure, but Brown dogged research transforms her into a living, breathing piece of history -- a study in survival and an inspiring tribute to Alaska's pioneer spirit

303 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2024

Reviews

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a child, I remember Irene Sherman biking around town, and I remember her warren-like pile of a house being pointed out to me. Now I know the story of how she came to be a Fairbanks institution. It's a heartbreaking story of mental illness, abuse, desperation and pain. Through it all, Irene kept a positive attitude and, for the most part, endeared herself to the people of the community. It delves way back into the stories of her parents, and also follows extended branches of the family. It's nice to know that Irene ended up living out her final years in comfort at the Pioneer's Home, after a lifetime of hardship and deprivation.

[CORSAK fan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A comprehensive, well-written biography of Irene Sherman, The Queen of Fairbanks. It tells the story of how she survived the devastating events of her childhood and does so in a way that leaves just enough room for compassion and grit without becoming overly sad or harsh.

[Matt Heavner · Rating 4 out of 5]

a great part of Fairbanks history - Irene was quite a woman. I have a few memories of her from when we first got to Fairbanks. This is also a great slice of early Alaska / Fairbanks history as well.