Eld Inlet facts for kids

Eld Inlet is a long, narrow arm of the Puget Sound in Washington. Think of it like a finger of the sea reaching inland! It's found in Thurston County. Eld Inlet is the second-most southern part of Puget Sound, right next to Budd Inlet.

What's in a Name? (Etymology)

Eld Inlet got its name from Charles Wilkes. He was a leader of the United States Exploring Expedition, a big journey to explore and map parts of the world. Wilkes named the inlet to honor one of his team members, a young officer named Henry Eld.

A Look Back in Time (History)

In May 1792, two explorers named Peter Puget and Joseph Whidbey visited Eld Inlet. They were part of the Vancouver Expedition, another important journey to explore the Pacific Northwest.

When Puget and Whidbey reached the very end of Eld Inlet, they discovered a village. About 60 Native American people lived there. The villagers were very welcoming and friendly to the explorers. Because of this warm welcome, Peter Puget decided to call the place "Friendly Inlet."

Where is it? (Geography)

Eld Inlet stretches for about 6 miles (10 kilometers) long. At its widest point, it measures about 1.24 miles (2 kilometers) across.

A stream called McLane Creek flows into the southern tip of Eld Inlet. This area forms a large, flat muddy spot known as Mud Bay.