National Register Listing

James, Francis Wilcox, House

Corner of Washington and Harrison Sts., Port Townsend, WA
Local significance of the building:
Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture houses residential buildings
The state's official bird is the American goldfinch, which is known for its bright yellow color and cheerful song.
Washington random facts
Jefferson County, located in the state of Washington, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its earliest inhabitants. The area was originally home to Native American tribes such as the Chimakum, S'Klallam, and Quileute, who relied on the abundant natural resources of the region, including ample fishing opportunities and lush forests.

In the late 18th century, European explorers, including British and Spanish traders, began to navigate the waters of the Pacific Northwest, with some even landing on the shores of present-day Jefferson County. However, it was not until the mid-19th century that the area started to see permanent settlement. Settlers, predominantly of European descent, arrived in search of timber and opportunities in agriculture and mining.

The discovery of gold in nearby British Columbia in 1857 sparked a brief gold rush, drawing more people to the region. Initially, Port Townsend, located in Jefferson County, served as a major port for trade and transportation, with aspirations of becoming a major city and the primary port for the Pacific Northwest. Although these ambitions did not entirely materialize, the city did prosper as a supply center during the gold rush era.

Over the years, Jefferson County remained primarily dependent on industries such as logging, fishing, and farming. In the 20th century, the area also became a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and historical landmarks. Today, Jefferson County continues to be known for its natural beauty, strong ties to its Native American heritage, and its commitment to environmental stewardship.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Jefferson County, Washington.

  • 1852 - Jefferson County is created and named after President Thomas Jefferson.
  • 1878 - Port Townsend becomes the county seat.
  • 1880s - Logging industry booms in Jefferson County.
  • 1890 - Port Townsend is one of the busiest ports on the West Coast.
  • 1905 - Fort Worden is established near Port Townsend as a military base.
  • 1920s - Decline in logging industry leads to economic challenges for the county.
  • 1935 - Olympic National Park is established in Jefferson County.
  • 1951 - Fort Worden becomes a state park after its closure as a military base.
  • 1971 - Jefferson County Historical Society is founded.
  • 1981 - Fort Worden State Park hosts the first Centrum Festival.
  • 2002 - Discovery Trail, a scenic trail that spans Jefferson County, is completed.
  • 2010 - Port Townsend is designated a National Historic Landmark District.