What’s old is new again, just in time for the holiday season.
When the Matanuska Colony was formed in the 1930s the federal government distributed Bingles to residents, and they could only be used in the Alaska Rural Rehabilitation Corporation commissary and store. After two years, the government stopped issuing Bingles, but now, 90 years later, Bingles are making a comeback thanks to the Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce, as a way to encourage people to shop locally and support local businesses.
The chamber is selling $5 and $20 Bingles that are redeemable in trade at nearly 30 participating businesses in the Palmer area. The wooden tokens feature the iconic Palmer water tower and were designed and produced locally by Silvertip Signs and Trophies.
Bingles make great holiday gifts, as they are essentially gift certificates that can be redeemed around town, not just at one specific place.
People can buy Bingles by contacting the chamber office at (907) 745-2880 or via e-mail at info@palmerchamber.org.