The Shidner Family

In the summer of 1993, we built our home in McCarthy. For the last 20 summers, we have worked and played in McCarthy, our favorite place on Earth.

We have seen many changes in the local area, including a change from CB and satellite radios for local and outside communications to full cellphone service with internet access in 2008. In 1996 a pedestrian footbridge was erected across the Kennicott River replacing the hand-pulled trams that were built in 1983.

Andy's background is in mountain climbing, survival training, satellite-based internet installations and construction. This summer will be Andy's 12th season working for the National Park Service on the historical building restoration project at Kennecott.

Cynthia is a teacher for the gifted and talented program at the Valdez City Schools District located in Valdez, Alaska.

Our sons, Matthew (16) and Robert (12), enjoy the long days of sunlight during the summer. They have hiked on the glacier, explored the underside of the glacier, visited ice caves, and learned the names of our local plants and animals.

If you visit in late July or August, we'll share some freshly picked garden vegetables with you! You are also welcome to borrow books from our office if you wish to learn more about the human and natural history of the local area.