The Star, Ketchikan

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The Star, Ketchikan

The Star, Ketchikan

The Star is one of the most iconic and historically rich buildings on Creek Street. It stands as the only brothel of the once-bustling red-light district to retain its full historical integrity. Originally constructed in 1903 in response to a city ordinance banning brothels from the downtown core, The Star was built on stilts over Ketchikan Creek in what was then known as Indian Town. As business boomed, it expanded in 1910 and again in 1917, becoming one of the largest brothels in the area. The dance floor, inlaid with a wooden star at its center, gave the house its name.

The Star passed through the hands of some notable madams, including "Black Mary", a well-known brothel owner from Petersburg who purchased the property in 1917. Mary brought with her a team of workers, including the soon-to-be-famous Dolly Arthur, who would later open her own house down the street.

After Mary's death, Thelma Baker (born Linda Ruth McCowan) took over the establishment. A savvy businesswoman, Baker continued to operate The Star through Prohibition, selling alcohol illegally and catering to fishermen and visitors who poured money into the local economy. Despite periodic police raids, the brothel remained active until World War II, when prostitution was briefly outlawed. Although activity resumed in 1946, the city permanently shut down brothels in 1953.

Even after its closure, The Star remained a part of the town's living memory. Thelma Baker continued to reside in the building until her tragic death in a fire in 1972, which also claimed the life of her dog. The fire marked the end of an era, but the legend of The Star—and the stories of the women who lived and worked there—continues to echo through the preserved boardwalks of Creek Street.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Ketchikan. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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The Star on Map

Sight Name: The Star
Sight Location: Ketchikan, USA (See walking tours in Ketchikan)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Ketchikan, Alaska

Create Your Own Walk in Ketchikan

Create Your Own Walk in Ketchikan

Creating your own self-guided walk in Ketchikan is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Ketchikan Introduction Walking Tour

Ketchikan Introduction Walking Tour

Ketchikan marks the start of what many still consider the last true frontier. Tucked into the southern tip of the state, it welcomes travelers sailing the Inside Passage—a winding corridor of forested islands, rugged coastline, and dramatic wilderness. It’s a place known for three things: fierce salmon runs, dramatic coastal scenery, and a deep-rooted Alaska Native heritage that continues to...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles