Jason Lanier Photography

First Dance at the Moundsville State Penitentiary

Nestled in the heart of Skagway, Alaska, the Red Onion Saloon is one of the most iconic landmarks of the Klondike Gold Rush. Built in 1897 at the height of the gold mining frenzy, the Red Onion served as both a saloon on the main floor and one of the town’s most infamous brothels upstairs. It was a place where miners, adventurers, and fortune-seekers from all over the world came together, bringing with them stories, dreams, and the wild energy of an era that transformed Alaska forever.

During the late 1890s, Skagway was the gateway to the Klondike. Tens of thousands of stampeders passed through its muddy streets, each hoping to strike it rich in the Yukon. With gold came opportunity, and with opportunity came saloons, dance halls, and brothels that fueled the nightlife of this rugged frontier town. The Red Onion quickly became one of the most popular establishments, known for its lively atmosphere, flowing whiskey, and the “Madams of the Upstairs Rooms” who remain part of its legend today.

Today, the Red Onion still stands as both a museum and a living piece of history, offering visitors a glimpse into Skagway’s wild past. To be able to create portraits and document this space is truly special—every corner of the building tells a story. From the ornate bar that once served weary miners to the narrow staircases leading to rooms where dreams and deals were made, photographing within these walls feels like stepping back in time.

This project is about more than portraits, it’s about honoring a piece of Alaska’s heritage, preserving the spirit of the Klondike, and sharing the story of a place where history was not only made, but lived.