This seems so insignificant with everything going on, but here it is for those who are interested.
Central, Alaska was built around the road house Central House, built in 1894. It was the way point between Circle and the mining operations at Mammoth, Mastodon, Preacher and Birch creeks. Central was a small community supporting the miners in the area. In 1906, a wagon road was started from Circle. In 1927, the road was completed to Fairbanks. This road has become the Steese Highway.
Mining is still the main industry in the Central area. After World War II, mining declined, but in the Mid-70s, Central and the Circle Mining District had the most active mines in Alaska. Today, about 130 people live in the area.
Of course we're interested! These little bits of facts about the checkpoints are great. I love that SPK is giving us education along with progress reports. It's clear that races like the YQ and Iditarod mean a lot to the communities that the racers mush through.
I totally understand what you meant by significant in this context, but to think what an undertaking it is for small little places like Central to be able to support an influx of people such as accompanies a long distance race is truly significant.
Not to mention the tireless volunteers!
Feel free to add these vignettes sprinkled among the race updates anytime. They show us a great slice of Alaska life.