Hidden Beneath Palmer: The Youth Archive Celebrates One Year
Contributed by Carol Dorman
Underground “HIVE” offers affordable fun, parties, and community space for families and youth groups.
A Hidden Place for Young People: March 14 marks the first anniversary of the Youth Archive, Palmer’s newest amusement and party center created specifically for young people. Known as the “HIVE,” it may also be one of Palmer’s best-kept secrets. The Youth Archive is an independent, stand-alone nonprofit and is not affiliated with any larger organization, thus the word has traveled slowly. It is located below ground in the basement of the historic Eagle Hotel and was created to give families and youth groups an imaginative place to socialize without spending a bundle.
A Busy First Year: During its first year of operation, the HIVE has hosted Trick-or-Treat Street, Young Life, choirs, youth groups, family birthday parties, company Christmas parties, youth leader meetings, tourists, and individuals with special needs. New attractions now include a driving simulator and a collection of antique video games for members to enjoy. Carol continues to improve the space, and visitors are encouraged to share their suggestions.
Open to All Ages: Open hours remain Wednesday through Saturday from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. All ages are welcome each day, and there is a $5 cover charge for non-members. Families bringing children under 13 are asked to attend with an adult. Teenagers and young adults ages 13 and older may attend independently and become members by signing a conduct pledge and submitting a guardian-signed insurance waiver as an emergency contact (available online). Members receive additional privileges; details are available on the Youth Archive website.
Movies, Music, and Memorable Moments: The HIVE’s movie room regularly shows silent comedy films from more than 120 years ago, as well as classic talking pictures such as Robin Hood and The Wizard of Oz. The music room hosts rehearsals for the Mat-Su Kids Chorus every Friday. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of games and activities, and autistic adults have found the environment especially welcoming.
Memorable moments have already filled the building. One Christmas party guest hilariously received a goldfish during a Secret Santa exchange, and the many vocal settings on the karaoke microphones have produced plenty of laughter among foster youth.
A Flood—and a Quick Recovery: Even unexpected challenges have added to the story. During a December windstorm, a burst pipe on the second floor flooded the basement. Volunteers spent the day slurping up water from the concrete floor with shop vacuums, but despite the setback, scheduled parties continued without interruption.
A Medieval-Themed Party Venue: The HIVE has also become a popular place for celebrations. Its medieval artwork and castle-like atmosphere free up the imagination. Guests can choose from themed events such as Picnic Parties, Stagecraft Parties, Movie Parties, Gamer Parties, or even a Medieval Tournament. The large “King’s Table” seats 14 guests and offers a unique setting for board meetings or royal tea parties.
A Safe and Welcoming Space: The Youth Archive is designed to be a safe place, with security cameras and a volunteer security guard on site. The entrance may feel a bit like the door maze from Monsters, Inc., but those who find the right doorway will discover a hidden medieval world beneath Palmer: the Youth Archive.