Washington State History is an enigma wrapped in layers of mystery. You may have already been aware of its past and present, but did you know that Washington has experienced so much?
It’s time to get acquainted with the state’s fascinating history! Take a moment to revel in our discoveries and revel in knowing more about what makes Washington tick – don’t forget to share your thoughts on any revelations you discover along the way!
The Yesler Mansion and the Story of Early Seattle
Seattle was once a wealthy port city, famed for its bustling shipbuilding industry. It boasted some of the most magnificent edifices in America’s capital during its heyday – the likes Hokulani Palace, designed by renowned architect David Adler; and the Wallingford House, created by renowned designer Frank Lloyd Wright.
But it was another mansion that ultimately became Seattle’s most recognizable landmark. Built in 1881 for cotton merchant John Yesler, this elaborate structure served as an eye-catching presence amid its opulent surroundings; over a century later it would become an integral part of the city skyline before eventually being demolished to make way for a Downtown parking garage.
What Did Washington State Look Like in the Past?
Washington has experienced a massive transformation over time, from its early-19th century territorial status to becoming the 49th state in 1889. However, don’t let this disorient you when exploring Washington’s history; because there have been numerous transformations throughout the duration of human existence!
Before Washington attained statehood, it was an unincorporated territory of the United States that experienced significant economic and cultural growth during the 1830s.
In 1845, Washington became an organized territory with a legislative assembly comprising one house and an executive branch consisting of a governor, secretary and judiciary branch. Though it had only one town and surrounding settlements at first – i.e., Fort Vancouver – there were several additional communities set up for expeditions before European settlers arrived to establish permanent locations: Nisqually, Yakima Valley and Cowlitz Plains were eventually settled.
The Legacy of Lewis and Clark in Washington State
Washington State is renowned for its imposing, majestic peaks that rank among the most beautiful in America; but it is also home to a rare and wondrous natural phenomenon: Glacier Peak – a staggering 14,410-foot locale featured prominently on the state flag.
This magnificent mountain stands as an impressive testament to our country’s unique heritage, for it was traversed by two intrepid explorers during their famed expedition of 1805-06. These bold pioneers braved inhospitable conditions in order to forge new trails across uncharted territory when they set out westward from St. Louis!
In recent years, this landmark has become an important site for trekkers from all over the world, who visit its summit with reverence – paying homage to those daring souls who blazed new paths long ago!
Japanese Internment Camps in Washington State
During the war that ultimately brought an end to World War II, authorities of the United States government were presented with two options: either incarcerate citizens who were deemed security risks or relocate them across the country.
On February 19th, 1942 – shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor heralded America’s entry into the conflict – President Franklin Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066, which authorized the military to detain up to 110,000 individuals of Japanese descent against their will and remove them from certain locations within a certain radius for relocation purposes.
The order was loosely enforced until late-1942, when it was amended to provide a more stringent minimum distance between internees and foster-care facilities before it would become compulsory.
Native American Tribes of Washington State
Washington State is home to at least nine Native American tribes, of which five are federally recognized.
In 1856, the U.S. government signed a bill that sought to set up treaties with various indigenous groups in order to guarantee their living conditions; it was subsequently ratified in 1889. Today there are over two hundred federally recognized tribes that comprise Washington State’s Indigenous population!
Tribes of Washington include:
Echoing the chiefdom era of history, these were the earliest inhabitants of Washington State. Prior to European settlement in the region, bands of Sahaptin-speaking peoples ranging from 600 people to around 3,500 made up the greater Nisqually Tribe. These indigenous people lived within a territory spanning across what would later become Pierce and King counties.
To date, there are more than 400 members residing within this tribe – making it one of the largest Native American groups in the Pacific Northwest! Discover more about their history and daily life today by visiting their website!
Bones Tell a Story – What Happened to Them?
If you find yourself in need of an excavation, make sure to contact the appropriate entity in order to ensure a complete investigation and retrieval process.
If you come across bones, it is vital to ascertain their origin before disposing of them. This can be accomplished through careful analysis of the physical characteristics – such as sex, age and race – or simply attributing them to one of numerous recognized burial places found throughout Washington.
Johnson Point Lighthouse in Enumclaw
This quaint little lighthouse is nestled within the Johnson Point National Wildlife Refuge, affording it a tranquil existence.
Built in 1885, Selfridge’s Johnson Point Lighthouse was originally an eight-room dwelling located on the west side of Puget Sound. However, it was eventually demolished when the Johnson Point Light Station was constructed nearby; its functions subsequently being replaced by that more advanced facility!
The current lighthouse, erected in its place in 1912, stands at a height of 33′ feet and is currently listed on the U.S. Coast Guard database as a navigational aid only.
Even though this remarkable structure has been fully restored over the course of several years – it remains one of the most captivating lighthouses still standing in Washington State today! For visitors keen to explore its preserved history, there are frequent tours during which they may gain insight into its illustrious past.
WA – One of Only Seven Left
There’s only one remaining vintage phone booth in Washington State, and it can be found at Georgetown Falls.
The Georgetown Falls phone booth dates back to the 1940s. Although its exterior is in rough shape after more than seventy years, it still boasts functionality! At any time during your stay, you can utilize this truly antique communication device; however, if service becomes unavailable due free-flowing waterfalls nearby – such as those located down by the shoreline – then you’ll need to seek help from others.
Conclusion
The state’s storied history is an embarrassment of riches for the visitor, making it possible to experience multiple facets of the past.
Discovering the multitude of intriguing sites in Washington State is just the beginning of a journey that will open up new horizons and stimulate one’s imagination.
