In the heart of Fairbanks, Alaska, an oasis is held in trust for residents and travelers alike. Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, an expanse of farm fields ringed by forested lands, provides a quiet place to walk, ski, or simply enjoy lunch. Surrounded by businesses, housing developments, and a four-lane highway, this three-square-mile remnant of farmland, complete with a quaint turn-of-the-century farmhouse and two handsome barns, has somehow escaped urbanization.

The fields are gently rolling and free of permafrost, making them ideal for urban development. Instead, geese, ducks, and Lesser Sandhill Cranes by the thousands make use of the fields each spring and fall. Residents of Fairbanks and tourists both young and old enjoy watching the migratory birds from observation decks, or walking the trails around the fields and ponds and through the Boreal Birch Forest. And in winter, the land is a mecca for area dog mushers and skiers.

What is the history behind the homey farmhouse and the Midwestern-style barns? And how is it that this farm became a wildlife refuge?

An intriguing story unfolds about the early days of Fairbanks, and a pioneer family who built a thriving dairy farm in the midst of an ancient flyway for cranes and waterfowl. For decades the Creamer’s Dairy was an important part of Fairbanks life, and the townspeople grew to appreciate not only the dairy but also the green fields and the birds that congregated there. When the farm eventually faced foreclosure, the farmer hoped to keep the land undivided for the benefit of the birds. The community, too, shared this dream and was inspired to come together to save the farm from becoming just another housing complex or shopping mall. Together, they found a way to preserve Creamer’s Field as a waterfowl refuge.