National Register Listings in
Mason County, Washington

Cushman Hydroelectric Project Historic District Cushman No. 1 Hydroelectric Power Plant Cushman No. 2 Hydroelectric Power Plant Ebenezer Congregational Church Goldsborough Creek Bridge Harstine Island Community Hall High Steel Bridge Malaney-O'Neill House Mason County Courthouse North Hamma Hamma River Bridge Schafer State Park Shelton Public Library and Town Hall Simpson Logging Company Locomotive No. 7 and Peninsular Railway Caboose No. 700 South Hamma Hamma River Bridge Twanoh State Park Vance Creek Bridge
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Built in Washington: 12,000 Years of Pacific Northwest Archaeological Sites and Historic Buildings Paperback – January 1, 1990
Built in Washington: 12,000 Years of Pacific Northwest Archaeological Sites and Historic Buildings

I have always been fascinated by the unique culture and history of Washington state.
Condoleezza Rice in Speech at Eastern Washington University
Mason County, Washington, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Skokomish, Squaxin Island, and Chehalis tribes, who lived off the bountiful resources of the land and waterways.

In the 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the area. In 1854, the first American settlers arrived and established a small settlement known as "Hammersley Inlet." The settlement grew, and in 1864, it was officially named Mason County, after Charles H. Mason, the first Secretary of Washington Territory.

Mason County became an important hub for the timber industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The vast forests of the region provided an abundance of lumber, which fueled economic growth and attracted more settlers to the area. Many mills and logging camps were established, and the lumber industry became the backbone of the local economy.

Over the years, Mason County has experienced various ups and downs, including economic fluctuations and natural disasters. However, the county has remained resilient and continues to thrive today. It has diversified its economy beyond timber into areas such as tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. The county is known for its stunning natural beauty, with attractions like Olympic National Park, Hood Canal, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, drawing visitors from near and far.

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

  • 1852 - Mason County is created by the Oregon Territorial Legislature, named after Charles H. Mason, the first Secretary of Washington Territory.
  • 1854 - The first European settlers arrive in Mason County.
  • 1864 - Shelton, the county seat, is established.
  • 1870 - The first sawmill in the county is built, marking the beginning of the timber industry.
  • 1885 - The original Mason County Courthouse is constructed.
  • 1891 - The first railroad is completed, connecting Mason County to the outside world.
  • 1906 - A major fire destroys much of downtown Shelton.
  • 1920s - The timber industry booms, making Mason County one of the largest lumber producers in the world.
  • 1940s - The logging industry declines due to over-harvesting and changing market conditions.
  • 1980s - The oyster farming industry becomes a significant economic contributor in Mason County.
  • 2016 - The county celebrates its 160th anniversary.