Snohomish County, Washington

Snohomish County, located in the northwestern part of Washington state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Snohomish, Duwamish, and Stillaguamish peoples, who relied on the region's abundant natural resources for their livelihoods. European exploration of the area began in the late 18th century, with Spanish, British, and American explorers all vying for control.

In the mid-19th century, the settlement of Snohomish County began in earnest with the arrival of American settlers. The discovery of gold in the Fraser River of nearby Canada drew thousands of prospectors to the area in the 1850s, leading to the founding of several towns. The logging industry also played a significant role in the county's early development and economy, as vast forests provided timber for construction and export.

The arrival of the Great Northern Railway in the late 19th century spurred even further growth in Snohomish County. The establishment of rail lines allowed for easier transportation of goods, attracting new industries and businesses to the region. Cities like Everett, Marysville, and Edmonds flourished as manufacturing centers, with industries such as shipbuilding, aerospace, and paper production becoming major contributors to the county's economy.

Over the years, Snohomish County has seen significant population growth and urban development. Today, it is home to a diverse and thriving community, encompassing suburban areas, rural landscapes, and bustling urban centers. The county continues to embrace its natural beauty, with attractions like the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, the Puget Sound, and numerous parks and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Brief timeline of the history of Snohomish County, Washington:

  • 1855 - Treaty of Point Elliott is signed between the United States government and local Native American tribes, creating a reservation for the Tulalip Tribes.
  • 1861 - What is now Snohomish County becomes part of Washington Territory.
  • 1861 - Snohomish County is officially established, named after the Snohomish Tribe.
  • 1871 - The first sawmill is built in what is now Everett, leading to the region's significant timber industry.
  • 1890 - The city of Everett is incorporated.
  • 1907 - The first commercial logging railroad begins operation in Snohomish County.
  • 1921 - The Boeing Company is founded in Seattle, later becoming a major employer in the region.
  • 1937 - The Snohomish County Airport (now Paine Field) opens in Everett, becoming a hub for aviation and aerospace industries.
  • 1967 - The Snohomish County Government Campus is established in Everett as the county seat.
  • 1980 - The Seattle SuperSonics basketball team moves its home games to the Everett Civic Auditorium for a season while their arena in Seattle is being renovated.
  • 1996 - The Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour opens at Paine Field, offering a behind-the-scenes look at aerospace manufacturing.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Snohomish County, Washington.