National Register Listings in
Kitsap County, Washington

Agate Pass Bridge Bainbridge Island Filipino Community Hall Bremerton Elks Temple Lodge No. 1181 Building Camp Major Hopkins Coder-Coleman House Doe-Kag-Wats Fort Ward Historic District Fort Ward Historic District (Boundary Increase) Hospital Reservation Historic District Jackson Hall Memorial Community Hall Marine Reservation Historic District Masonic Hall- Port Orchard Navy Yard Puget Sound Nelson, Charles F., House Officers' Row Historic District Point No Point Light Station Port Gamble Historic District Puget Sound Radio Station Historic District Shelbanks U.S.S. MISSOURI US Post Office-Bremerton Main USS HORNET
The Skagit River in northwestern Washington is home to one of the largest wintering bald eagle populations in the continental United States, with up to 400 eagles gathering there during the peak of the season.
Washington random facts
Kitsap County, located in the western part of Washington State, has a rich history that dates back to thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Suquamish and S'Klallam, who relied on the abundant natural resources in the region for fishing, hunting, and gathering.

In the 18th century, European explorers, including British and Spanish sailors, began to visit the area, followed by American fur traders and explorers. In 1841, the first known European settlement was established at Port Madison by the Hudson's Bay Company. This marked the beginning of increased European presence in the region.

During the mid-19th century, settlers from the eastern parts of the United States started to arrive, drawn by the region's fertile lands and access to the Puget Sound. In 1854, Kitsap County was officially established, named after Chief Kitsap, a Suquamish leader. Port Orchard was designated as the county seat.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant growth in the area, primarily due to the expansion of the logging and shipbuilding industries. Kitsap County became an important hub for timber production and shipbuilding, playing a vital role in supporting the growth of neighboring Seattle. The construction of Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton in 1891 further boosted the local economy and solidified the county's ties with the U.S. Navy.

Today, Kitsap County remains a vibrant and diverse region that offers a blend of urban centers, rural communities, and breathtaking natural beauty. With its strong ties to the naval industry, a robust tourism sector, and a thriving arts and culture scene, the county continues to evolve while embracing its unique history and heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Kitsap County, Washington.

  • 1854 - Kitsap County is officially formed as part of Washington Territory
  • 1855 - Port Madison Indian Reservation is established on the Kitsap Peninsula
  • 1889 - The Great Seattle Fire prompts many residents to move to Kitsap County
  • 1900 - Naval Base Kitsap (formerly Puget Sound Naval Shipyard) is established in Bremerton
  • 1937 - The Tacoma Narrows Bridge, connecting Kitsap County to Tacoma, is opened
  • 1942 - World War II brings increased military presence and economic growth to the area
  • 1950 - The Hood Canal Bridge, spanning the Hood Canal, is completed
  • 1979 - Kitsap Mall opens as the county's first major shopping center
  • 1999 - The Clear Creek Trail, a popular hiking and biking trail, is established
  • 2013 - The Suquamish Museum opens, showcasing the history and culture of the Suquamish Tribe