Unalaska, AK – Today, local children got the day off from school, and state employees got to stay home from work in observance of Alaska Day. On this date, 143 years ago, the Territory of Alaska was formally transferred from Russia to the United States after being purchased for $7.2 million.

While for many, the day provides a break to play with friends or even just catch up on errands, it also offers an opportunity reflect on the state's history over the past century and a half. In honor of Alaska Day, KUCB's Alexandra Gutierrez spoke to some Alaskans about their memories of the passage of statehood.