Your Words: Kiana Entrepreneur Eli Cyrus Breathes New Life into Historic Blankenship Trading Post

Near the edge of the Kobuk River in Kiana stands a historic building called the Blankenship Trading Post. Founded in 1935 by Walter “Blank” and Nellie Blankenship with the acquisition of the assets of an even earlier business, this historic facility has become a cornerstone of the community providing essential goods. Now under the management of local entrepreneur Eli Cyrus, the store is poised to embark on a new chapter of growth and innovation.

A lifelong resident of Kiana, Cyrus' entrepreneurial journey began with humble roots.

“I started working at Manilaq as an intern in the IT department during high school,” he said. “I was pretty good at technology and computers.”

It was during his formative years that Cyrus' innate curiosity and problem-solving talent first emerged.

“When I was six years old, I was able to recycle and repair a few computers that my school had thrown in the garbage,” he recalls with a laugh. “This was my first introduction to applying my knowledge of technology and creating value.”

Cyrus' academic journey took him from Kiana to Mount Edgekumbu Hall in Sitka to the University of Alaska in Fairbanks, where he initially continued his studies in computer engineering before discovering his passion for tribal government.

“While my background in technology laid the foundation for my career, my heart was always drawn to serving the community,” he reflects.

With a keen sense of purpose, Silas has taken on various but important roles, starting in the IT department, then as a lead caseworker in Maniiraq's TANF (Temporary Assistance) department, and now as Kiana City Administrator. . He also served as president of the Kiana Indian Village. His dedication to public service extends beyond Kiana, as he serves on other boards and committees as well as becoming Chairman of the Board of NANA Regional Corporation.

“I've lived in Kiana all my life. I can't imagine living anywhere else,” Cyrus said. “Our region is blessed with some of the most wonderful people I have ever met, and we consider our region to be one big community.”

In 2018, Silas took on a new challenge as Kiana City Administrator. This role furthered Cyrus' commitment to public service.

“I enjoy doing this job,” he says. “We partner with ANTHC in maintaining the water and wastewater systems, assisting with town road maintenance and other necessary city government functions.”

Despite his diverse experience, Silas' entrepreneurial journey began in earnest a few months ago with the acquisition of Blankenship Trading Post. Steeped in history and tradition, this store occupies a special place in Kiana's identity.

“We're not changing the name of the store,” Cyrus said. “This store has been around since before Kiana was incorporated, and I respect the history and contributions of the family that founded this store and ran it for decades.”

Indeed, the story of Blankenship Trading Post is one of resilience and adaptation. Established at the height of mining activity on the River Lys, the store quickly became a lifeline for miners and residents. Over the years, we have overcome many challenges, from harsh winters to economic fluctuations. But through it all, Blankenship Trading Post remained steadfast in its commitment to serving the Kiana community.

Ruth, the daughter of Blank and Nellie Blankenship, owned and operated the store in semi-retirement since 2002. Running her business has allowed her to be physically and mentally active, as well as interact with her friends and Kiana community members.

“After Ruth passed away in 2014, her children came forward to continue the work,” Silas said. “Ultimately, they made the decision to sell the store.”

It was this pivotal moment that sparked Cyrus' entrepreneurial vision. This vision was rooted in a deep-seated desire to give back to the community and make a tangible difference in the lives of its residents.

“The challenges I have faced since purchasing the store are the same challenges that many people in our village are facing,” Silas said. “Every obstacle tested my resolve, from power outages at minus 40 degrees Celsius to gelling diesel fuel at minus 60 degrees Celsius.”

But even in the face of adversity, Cyrus remains committed to his core principles of reducing costs and improving community accessibility.

“My goal is to provide quality products at a lower price,” Cyrus said. “We strive to keep our margins as low as possible to not only increase sales but also create competitive pricing at Kiana.

Cyrus' efforts have already begun to have a significant impact on the community, including reducing the price of bottled water from $2 to less than $1, and baby formula and diapers from $5 to $10.

In addition to his ambitious pursuits, Silas is also an avid aviator, earning his pilot's license. That passion is deeply rooted in his upbringing.

“I got my pilot's license almost 10 years ago,” he said. “I primarily use search and rescue, personal travel, and my favorite, airplanes, to provide cover for snowmachine races to help keep an eye on the racers and keep them safe.”

This air access will allow the store to ship products directly from Fairbanks to Kiana, a new option not previously available, resulting in lower prices.

Central to Cyrus' vision for the store is a focus on expanding its offerings to better meet the needs of the community.

“My hope is to reinvest in store expansion to create space for more groceries and healthier fresh food options for the community,” he said. “We're always looking for new ways to enhance our customers' shopping options.”

As Cyrus embarks on a new chapter in his entrepreneurial journey, he said he continues to be guided by his unwavering belief in the potential of community and the power of collective action.

“My advice to others who want to do the same is to have a solid business plan and be prepared to overcome challenges,” he said. “I believe in our region and our people, and I want to see all of us succeed in our goals, whatever they may be.”