The Nome Nugget

Nome Starts Rebuilding
(Jessen's Weekly)

We are not amazed by the news that already the residents of hard-hit Nome are now laying their plans for reconstruction—not just temporarily, although the first structures will necessarily have to be that, but permanently. As far back as we can recall, periodically disaster of some kind engulfs Nome. It has been swept by floods and tidal waves and razed by fires. But it never gives up.

With an undaunted spirit, it has lived through bitter years of recovery and rebuilding. So it will be on this occasion. It will continue to be what it has been for almost a half-century, one of Alaska's most outstanding communities.

It should have and almost certainly can get assistance. First of all, it seems to us that the American Red Cross can give financial aid from its disaster fund. The Federal government, which has a big investment nearby, surely will install some revetments that will hold. The Territory ought to be able to help with school facilities. A hospital is already assured, but the Territorial Health Department might participate in equipping it.

The importance of Nome to the Nation and to the Territory is well-established. It is the obligation of both to do their part, and not leave it to the people of Nome to do it alone.