You May Soon Be Able to Visit William Riker in His Alaskan Hometown

In the picturesque town of Valdez, Alaska, a proposal is taking shape that could see the birthplace of a Star Trek legend commemorated in bronze. Commander William Riker, the fictional first officer aboard the Starship Enterprise in Star Trek: The Next Generation, known for his tactical acumen, charming demeanor, and love for jazz, may soon be immortalized in his alleged hometown, despite the character's future birth date being centuries away. According to reporting by KTOO Alaska Public Media, a group of dedicated fans and Alaskan natives are spearheading an initiative to celebrate Riker's fictional roots with a life-sized statue in Valdez, highlighting the unique blend of art, fandom, and local pride.

Cameron Harrison, leading the effort alongside fellow Trekkies through the newly formed nonprofit Riker Maneuver, envisions the statue as not just a tribute but as a piece of functional art that invites interaction. The proposed design features Riker in his iconic pose, leg propped on a bench, offering a photo opportunity for visitors and locals alike. This pose not only captures the essence of the character but also serves as a nod to the sense of adventure and individualism that Harrison believes aligns with Alaskan values.

The initiative has identified Patrick Garley of Palmer, Alaska, as the artist to bring this vision to life, with an estimated cost of $125,000 for the project. The group has engaged with the city of Valdez to discuss the potential of the statue not only as a monument to a beloved character but as a unique tourist attraction that embodies the spirit of exploration and community shared by both Alaskans and fans of "Star Trek."

Jessie Desmond, another key organizer and a space management student, draws parallels between Riker's adventurous and inclusive spirit and Alaska's role in space exploration and its welcoming community. The project also draws inspiration from similar tributes in other towns, celebrating the birthplaces of iconic Star Trek characters, such as Captain James Kirk and Captain Kathryn Janeway, suggesting a broader cultural appreciation for the series' impact.

Valdez's Parks and Rec director, Ken Wilson, although more familiar with Star Wars, acknowledges the potential economic and cultural benefits of such a project, highlighting the positive reception from both the local community and broader Star Trek fandom, including CBS, the franchise owner.

As the proposal moves through the city's approval process, organizers are optimistic, planning to fundraise through crowdfunding. They dream of an unveiling event that could potentially feature Jonathan Frakes, the actor who portrayed Riker, contributing to the celebration with his trombone, a testament to the enduring connection between fans, their heroes, and the communities that embrace them.