The Wild West: A New Frontier for Sawmills in Washington State

Washington state's rich natural resources have long been a driving force behind its economic growth and development. One of the most significant of these resources is the vast expanse of softwood trees that cover much of the Pacific coastal forests. In fact, it's estimated that nearly two-thirds of the country's timber can be found in Washington State alone.

At the height of its logging industry in 1919, Seattle was a city surrounded by an immeasurable sea of timber. The sound of saws and the scent of freshly cut wood filled the air as sawmills worked tirelessly to harvest this valuable resource. It was an era of great change and transformation, marked by technological advancements and innovations that would shape the industry for generations to come.

As historian Cal Winslow notes in his latest book, Radical Seattle: The General Strike of 1919, 'The Pacific coastal forests were a magnet for workers seeking better wages and working conditions.' Many sawmills sprouted up along the coast, employing thousands of people who came from all over the country to take advantage of the plentiful job opportunities.

Today, Washington State remains a hub for the logging industry, with many modern sawmills operating in the region. While the industry has evolved significantly since its wild west days, the importance of this resource cannot be overstated. As Winslow notes, 'The history of the Pacific Northwest is deeply tied to the history of the logging industry.'

From the early days of pioneering loggers to the present day, sawmills have played a crucial role in shaping the state's economy and identity. Whether you're interested in the region's rich history or simply looking for a glimpse into the past, exploring Washington State's sawmill heritage is a must-do experience.

So the next time you visit Seattle, take a stroll along the waterfront and imagine the bustling scene of 1919, where the sound of saws and the scent of freshly cut wood filled the air. You might just catch a glimpse of the wild west spirit that still lingers in this new frontier.

Sawmill in wild west new frontier