Longview Bridge
Spans Columbia river, Longview, WA Local significance of the structure:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
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.
The Washington State Capitol Building in Olympia was designed by architects from the New York firm of York and Sawyer, who also designed the Michigan State Capitol and the New York State Education Building.
In the mid-19th century, American settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted to the abundant natural resources like timber and fish. The Hudson's Bay Company also had a significant presence in the region, further contributing to the growth and development of the area. In 1854, the Cowlitz County was officially created, named after the Cowlitz tribe. Early industries in the county included logging, fishing, and coal mining.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant changes in Cowlitz County's economy. The completion of the Northern Pacific Railway in the 1870s brought increased access to markets and facilitated the growth of the timber industry. Lumber mills began to spring up across the county, leading to a period of rapid economic development. In the early 20th century, the construction of dams along the Cowlitz River helped to generate hydroelectric power, driving further industrial growth.
In more recent decades, Cowlitz County has continued to evolve. The decline of the timber industry has led to a diversification of the local economy, with a focus on manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The county is also home to the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, which has a casino and other economic ventures. Today, Cowlitz County remains a vibrant area that combines its rich history with modern industries and a growing community.
Cowlitz County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Cowlitz County, Washington.
- 1845: First recorded exploration of the area by American settlers.
- 1854: Treaty of Medicine Creek signed, establishing a reservation for local Native American tribes, including the Cowlitz.
- 1860: George Abernathy settles in the area and establishes a trading post.
- 1871: Cowlitz County is officially established as a separate county.
- 1882: The county seat is moved to Kelso.
- 1905: Mount St. Helens erupts, causing significant damage to the county.
- 1930s: The Great Depression brings economic hardship to the region.
- 1980: Mount St. Helens erupts again, causing widespread destruction.
- 1995: Cowlitz County Historical Museum is established in Kelso.