North to the Future (Alaska State Motto)

“North to the Future” is the official state motto of Alaska. It was adopted in 1967, the year of the Alaska Purchase Centennial, and is listed among the symbols of the state [1][2].

Origin

The State of Alaska reports that the motto was adopted in 1967, during the Alaska Purchase Centennial, which marked 100 years since the 1867 transfer of Alaska to the United States [2]. It credits the phrase to Richard Peter, a Juneau newsman, and describes it as a way of presenting Alaska as a land of promise [2].

Place among Alaska state symbols

The motto appears in the list of Alaska state symbols alongside the state flag, flower, tree, bird, and other official designations, with its adoption year given as 1967 [1].

FAQs

What is the Alaska state motto? The Alaska state motto is “North to the Future” [1].

When was the motto adopted? It was adopted in 1967, during the Alaska Purchase Centennial [1][2].

Who created the motto? The State of Alaska credits Richard Peter, a Juneau newsman [2].

Sources

1. Wikipedia: List of Alaska state symbols
2. State of Alaska: State Symbols (Alaska Kids)

Editorially reviewed by Specialty Digest Editorial TeamLast reviewed November 14, 2026Researched and drafted with AI assistanceReport an issue