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National Register of Historic Places listings in Island County, Washington facts for kids

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The National Register of Historic Places is like a special list of important places in the United States. These places could be buildings, areas, or even objects that have a lot of history. They are important because they tell us about the past and help us understand how people lived long ago. When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized for its historical value and efforts are made to protect it. Island County, Washington, has many such amazing places, from old resorts to historic farms and even lighthouses!

Discovering Island County's Historic Gems

Island County in Washington State is home to several fascinating places listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Each spot has a unique story, offering a glimpse into the past. Let's explore some of these cool historical sites!

Cama Beach State Park: A Step Back in Time

Cama Beach Resort Sign
Welcome to Cama Beach State Park!
  • Location: Camano Island
  • Listed: May 15, 2001

Cama Beach State Park is a beautiful place on Camano Island. It used to be a popular fishing resort that opened way back in the 1930s. Imagine families coming here for summer vacations, staying in cozy cabins right by the water! Today, it's a state park where you can still experience that old-fashioned charm. You can stay in restored cabins, go boating, or just enjoy the peaceful beach. It's a great example of how people used to relax and have fun by the sea.

Central Whidbey Island Historic District: A Whole Historic Area

Ebey Blockhouse WA NPS
The Ebey Blockhouse, part of the historic district.
  • Location: South of Oak Harbor, near Coupeville
  • Listed: December 12, 1973

Instead of just one building, the Central Whidbey Island Historic District is a large area that includes many historic farms, homes, and even a town! It's one of the first places in the United States to be recognized as a National Historical Reserve. This district shows us what life was like for early settlers in the Pacific Northwest. You can see old farmhouses, barns, and the charming town of Coupeville, which looks much like it did over a hundred years ago. It's like stepping into a living history book!

Deception Pass: A Bridge with a View

Deception pass bridge
The iconic Deception Pass Bridge connecting islands.
  • Location: Anacortes, along Route 20
  • Listed: July 16, 1982

Deception Pass is famous for its stunning bridge that connects Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island. This bridge isn't just pretty; it's also a historic landmark! Built during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps, it's an amazing example of engineering from that time. The pass itself is known for its strong currents and beautiful views. Being on the National Register means this bridge is recognized for its importance in transportation history and its unique design.

Kristoferson Dairy: A Historic Farm

Kristoferson Farm 18
A barn at Kristoferson Dairy, showing its historic architecture.
  • Location: Near Stanwood
  • Listed: January 3, 2012

The Kristoferson Dairy is a historic farm that tells the story of farming in Washington State. It's part of a special group of "Barns of Washington State" that are recognized for their historical value. Farms like Kristoferson Dairy were very important for feeding communities and helping the region grow. Visiting or learning about this dairy can give you an idea of what farm life was like in the past and how much hard work went into producing food.

Benjamin Loers House: A Glimpse of Early Homes

Lohrs House
The historic Benjamin Loers House.
  • Location: Oak Harbor
  • Listed: August 29, 1977

The Benjamin Loers House is a historic home located in Oak Harbor. While not much public information is available about it, its listing on the National Register means it has special architectural or historical importance. Often, these homes represent the styles and building methods of a certain time period, or they were owned by people who played a significant role in the local community's history. It helps us remember the early residents of the area.

Olympic Club: A Community Hub

Olympic Club
The Olympic Club building in Langley.
  • Location: Langley
  • Listed: May 28, 1991

The Olympic Club in Langley is another historic building. Places like the Olympic Club often served as important gathering spots for people in the community. They might have been social clubs, meeting halls, or even places for entertainment. These buildings were central to the social life of towns in the past. Its listing shows its importance to the history and development of Langley.

Site 45-IS-2 (Cama Beach Archaeological Site): Ancient History

  • Location: Camano Island (Address Restricted)
  • Listed: December 11, 2008

This site, also known as the Cama Beach Archaeological Site, is a very special place because it holds clues about people who lived on Camano Island long, long ago. Archaeological sites are places where scientists study ancient human history by digging up artifacts like tools, pottery, or old foundations. Because these sites are so fragile and important for understanding the past, their exact locations are often kept secret to protect them. This site helps us learn about the earliest inhabitants of the area.

Smith Island Light Station: A Lost Lighthouse

Smith island light
The Smith Island Light Station before it was lost to erosion.
  • Location: Northwest of Oak Harbor
  • Listed: April 6, 1978

The Smith Island Light Station was once a lighthouse located on Smith Island. Lighthouses are important historical structures that helped guide ships safely through waters, especially at night or in bad weather. Sadly, this lighthouse was lost due to erosion, meaning the land it stood on gradually wore away. Even though the structure is gone, its history and importance are still recognized on the National Register. It reminds us of the power of nature and the vital role lighthouses played in maritime history.

Utsalady Ladies Aid Building: A Place of Community Support

Utsalady Ladies Aid 02
The Utsalady Ladies Aid Building.
  • Location: Camano Island
  • Listed: September 25, 1998

The Utsalady Ladies Aid Building on Camano Island is a historic structure that represents the important role women's groups played in communities. Ladies Aid societies were common in the past, with women coming together to help their neighbors, support local causes, and build community spirit. This building likely served as a meeting place for these dedicated women. It's a reminder of how communities supported each other and worked together to make their towns better places.

Images for kids

  • Cama Beach Resort Sign

    Welcome to Cama Beach State Park!

  • Ebey Blockhouse WA NPS

    The Ebey Blockhouse, part of the historic district.

  • Deception pass bridge

    The iconic Deception Pass Bridge connecting islands.

  • Kristoferson Farm 18

    A barn at Kristoferson Dairy, showing its historic architecture.

  • Lohrs House

    The historic Benjamin Loers House.

  • Olympic Club

    The Olympic Club building in Langley.

  • Smith island light

    The Smith Island Light Station before it was lost to erosion.

  • Utsalady Ladies Aid 02

    The Utsalady Ladies Aid Building.

See also

External links

  • Washington Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, Historic Register program
  • National Park Service, National Register of Historic Places site
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National Register of Historic Places listings in Island County, Washington Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.