National Register of Historic Places listings in Grays Harbor County, Washington facts for kids
This article is about special places in Grays Harbor County, Washington that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This register is like a special list of buildings, sites, and objects across the United States that are important to history. When a place is on this list, it means it's worth protecting and remembering for future generations.
Grays Harbor County is in the western part of Washington. It's known for its beautiful coastlines, forests, and rivers. Many of the historic places here tell stories about the county's past, from its early settlements to its logging and fishing industries. There are currently 22 places in Grays Harbor County on this list. A few others were once listed but have since been removed.
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Exploring Grays Harbor's Historic Treasures
Grays Harbor County is home to many fascinating historic sites. These places help us understand what life was like long ago and how the area grew. Let's look at some of these special spots.
Lighthouses and Bridges
Some of the most important historic places are structures that helped people travel and connect.
Grays Harbor Light Station
The Grays Harbor Light is a tall lighthouse located near Westport. It was built in 1898 and is the third tallest lighthouse in Washington state. Lighthouses like this one were super important for guiding ships safely into harbors, especially during foggy weather or at night. Imagine sailors relying on its bright light to find their way home! It's a strong symbol of maritime history in the area.
Hoquiam River Bridge
The Hoquiam River Bridge is a historic bridge in Hoquiam. It was built in 1928 and is a type of bridge called a "bascule bridge." This means a part of the bridge can lift up to let boats pass underneath. It's a great example of early 20th-century engineering and how cities adapted to both land and water traffic.
Historic Homes and Mansions
Many grand old houses in Grays Harbor County are on the National Register. They show us how people lived and the different styles of architecture from the past.
Hoquiam's Castle
One of the most famous homes is Hoquiam's Castle, also known as the Robert Lytle Mansion. Built in 1897, it looks like a real castle with its towers and unique design. It was built for a wealthy lumber baron, Robert Lytle. This house is a fantastic example of Victorian architecture and is a popular landmark in Hoquiam.
Neil Cooney Mansion
The Neil Cooney Mansion in Cosmopolis is another beautiful historic home. It was built in 1908 for Neil Cooney, who was also involved in the lumber industry. This mansion shows the elegant lifestyle of successful families in the early 1900s.
Judge Charles W. Hodgdon House
The Judge Charles W. Hodgdon House in Hoquiam was built in 1905. It belonged to Judge Charles W. Hodgdon, an important figure in the community. This house is a good example of the Craftsman style of architecture, which was popular in the early 20th century.
Community Buildings and Landmarks
Beyond homes, many public buildings and gathering places also hold historical significance.
Carnegie Library (Hoquiam)
The Carnegie Library in Hoquiam was built in 1910. It's one of many libraries across the United States funded by Andrew Carnegie, a famous businessman who believed in the power of education. These libraries were designed to be beautiful and welcoming places for everyone to learn.
Seventh Street Theater
The Seventh Street Theater in Hoquiam opened in 1928. It was originally a movie palace, a grand place where people would go to watch films and enjoy live performances. It's a wonderful example of the elaborate theaters built during that time. Today, it still hosts events and shows.
Hoquiam Olympic Stadium
The Hoquiam Olympic Stadium was built in 1938. It's a unique stadium because it was built using wood from the local logging industry. It has hosted many sports events, including baseball and football games. It's a testament to the community's love for sports and its connection to the timber industry.
Lake Quinault Lodge
The Lake Quinault Lodge is a beautiful lodge built in 1926 on the shores of Lake Quinault. It's known for its rustic charm and stunning natural surroundings within the Olympic National Forest. It's a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the wilderness and relax in a historic setting.
Other Notable Places
Many other sites contribute to the rich history of Grays Harbor County.
Kestner Homestead
The Kestner Homestead is located in the Quinault River Valley. It represents the early pioneer life and farming in the region. Homesteads like this show how families settled and built lives in the wilderness.
Polson Museum
The Polson Museum in Hoquiam is housed in the former home of F. Arnold Polson, another prominent figure in the lumber industry. Today, it serves as a museum, preserving and sharing the history of Grays Harbor County, especially its logging heritage.
Former Listings
Sometimes, a historic place might be removed from the National Register. This can happen for different reasons. For example, a building might be torn down, or it might change so much that it no longer has its original historic look or importance.
Three properties in Grays Harbor County were once on the list but have since been removed:
- The Chow Chow Bridge near Taholah.
- The Finch Building in Aberdeen.
- The Wishkah River Bridge near Greenwood.
These places were important in their time, even if they are no longer on the official list today.
Images for kids
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American Veterans Building
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Joseph Lytle Home
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Masonic Temple-Hoquiam
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Lachlin McTaggert House
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Ole Mickelson Cabin
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The motor ship Sierra
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U.S. Post Office – Hoquiam Main
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U.S. Post Office – Montesano Main
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Chow Chow Bridge (former listing)
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Finch Building (former listing)
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Wishkah River Bridge (former listing)
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Old McCleary Hotel
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