National Register Listing

Gorge Hydroelectric Power Plants

Off WA 20 at W end of Gorge Lake, Newhalem, WA
Local significance of the district:
Industry; Engineering

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1989.

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.

Washington is the only state named after a president that is not located on the East Coast.
Washington random facts
Whatcom County, located in the state of Washington, has a rich and diverse history spanning thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Lummi, Nooksack, and Semiahmoo tribes. They thrived off the abundant natural resources, such as fish and wildlife, and had a deep connection to the land.

In the 19th century, explorers and traders, such as Captain George Vancouver and Joseph Whidbey, arrived in the area and began to establish trading relationships with the indigenous peoples. The arrival of European settlers in the mid-1800s brought significant changes to the region. In 1852, the first permanent settlement, known as Whatcom, was established. It quickly grew as more settlers arrived and established farms, sawmills, and businesses.

The discovery of gold in the Fraser River in neighboring British Columbia in 1858 led to a surge in population as many hopeful miners passed through Whatcom County on their way to the goldfields. This resulted in the rapid growth of towns like Bellingham and Ferndale as supply centers for the miners. However, the gold rush had a disruptive impact on the indigenous populations and led to conflicts and displacement.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Whatcom County became an important center for logging and the timber industry. The opening of rail lines and the establishment of sawmills played a crucial role in the economic development of the region. Today, Whatcom County continues to be a thriving area, with a diverse economy, stunning natural beauty, and a rich cultural heritage that celebrates its indigenous roots and pioneer history.

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

  • 1852 - The area is first explored by Europeans.
  • 1853 - The settlement of Whatcom is established.
  • 1858 - Whatcom County is created by the Washington Territorial Legislature.
  • 1871 - The establishment of Bellingham, a city within Whatcom County.
  • 1883 - The Great Northern Railway reaches Whatcom County, contributing to its growth.
  • 1903 - Western Washington University is founded in Bellingham.
  • 1960s - The decline of the timber industry leads to economic diversification in the county.
  • 2003 - The creation of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.