Dolly’s House was constructed in 1919 by a local entrepreneur named Dolly Arthur. It was originally built as a residence but soon became known for its role serving the men in the fishing and logging industries. While historically it operated as a brothel during the early to mid-20th century, during Prohibition it evolved and became a social club featuring music, companionship and served alcohol.
Dolly Arthur, the house’s namesake, was a prominent figure in Ketchikan. She became known for her hospitality and her ability to create a welcoming environment for her gentlemen guests. While a pioneer in Ketchikan’s social scene additional houses joined hers on Creek Street turning the neighborhood into the town’s red light district.
Directly behind Creek Street was Ketchikan Creek tumbling down a hillside and along the creek was a path called “Married Man Trail” as it served as a discreet route for men visiting the red-light district instead of openly walking into the front doors of the “sporting houses”.
Today, Married Man’s Trail is a scenic and popular walking path for tourists, offering views of Ketchikan Creek, and various attractions like Creek Street itself, Dolly’s Museum, the Salmon Ladder, and connections to downtown Ketchikan. While its historical “sordid past” is a prominent part of its story, it’s now appreciated for its natural beauty and as a unique glimpse into Ketchikan’s colorful past.
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