The history of Edmonds is inextricably linked with the name of George Brackett, who is considered the city's founding father. Brackett arrived on the shores of Puget Sound in search of timber in 1870, and in 1876 he purchased a tract of land that became the core of the future settlement. The official birth year of the city can be considered 1884, when Brackett filed the town plat. The city was named in honor of US Senator George Franklin Edmunds, although the spelling was slightly modified.
Key Factors in Its Establishment
The development of Edmonds was determined by several important circumstances:
Geographical Location: Its position on the sound provided easy access to waterways, which was critical before the development of the road network.
Natural Resources: The dense forests surrounding the settlement became the foundation for the region's first and primary industry—logging.
Transport Accessibility: The arrival of the Great Northern Railway in 1891 connected Edmonds to major markets and accelerated the influx of new residents.
Early Cultural and Economic Features
In the late 19th century, the economy of Edmonds was built around the production of roofing shingles. Numerous sawmills were located along the waterfront, and the smoke and noise from them were an integral part of the city's atmosphere at the time. Edmonds officially incorporated as a city in 1890. Over time, thanks to the picturesque views of the Olympic Mountains and the sound, the city began to transform from an industrial center into an attractive place to live, while maintaining its close-knit community spirit.
Timeline
Major Historical Milestones
1876: George Brackett purchases 140 acres of timberland along the coast, laying the foundation for the future settlement.
1884: The first town plat for the city, named Edmonds, is officially recorded.
1890: Edmonds is officially incorporated as a city of the fourth class, and Brackett becomes its first mayor.
1891: The Great Northern Railway is laid through the city, providing a reliable connection to Seattle and eastern regions.
1909: A devastating fire destroys several large sawmills on the waterfront, dealing a blow to the city's main industry.
1911: The Carnegie Library building opens, built with a grant from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.
1923: Regular automobile ferry service is launched between Edmonds and Kingston.
1948: Residents vote to create the Port District of Edmonds to manage the shoreline and develop infrastructure.
1951: The last major shingle mill closes, ending the era of wood processing within city limits.
1962: Construction of the current ferry terminal is completed, which has since become one of the busiest in the state.
1967: Edmonds Community College is founded, becoming an important educational center for the region.
1970: The Edmonds Marina officially opens, transforming the city into a popular destination for sailors and boat enthusiasts.
1990: The Edmonds Underwater Park is established, becoming a unique protected area for marine flora and fauna and a pilgrimage site for divers.
2006: The Edmonds Center for the Arts opens in the renovated historic high school building.
2018: Edmonds becomes the first city in Washington State to receive official "Certified Creative District" status.
Milestones
Stages of City Development and Transformation
The history of Edmonds is a journey from an industrial logging settlement to a cultural and resort hub of the Puget Sound region. The city's major milestones can be divided into several key stages, each of which radically changed the city's appearance and economy.
Arrival of the Great Northern Railway (1891): The introduction of rail service connected the isolated settlement with Seattle and the eastern states. This event served as a catalyst for population growth and simplified logistics for the timber business.
The "Shingle Capital" Era (Early 20th Century): Until the mid-century, the city's economy relied on the production of roofing shingles. The presence of dozens of sawmills along the coast provided jobs but made the city a noisy and smoky industrial center.
Launch of Automobile Ferry Service (1923): The establishment of a regular ferry crossing to Kingston turned Edmonds into an important transport hub ("The Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula"). This ensured a steady transit flow of tourists and commercial traffic, stimulating the development of the service sector.
Waterfront Deindustrialization (1950s): The closure of the last major sawmills marked the end of the industrial era. The city began to pivot toward creating a comfortable residential environment, becoming a popular suburb for those working in Seattle.
Marina Construction and Port Development (1960s–1970s): The creation of an artificial harbor and a large yacht marina completely changed the functional purpose of the waterfront. The former industrial zone was transformed into a recreational space, attracting water sports enthusiasts and tourists.
Establishment of an Educational Cluster (1967): The opening of Edmonds Community College diversified the economy and social structure, attracting students and creating new jobs in the education sector.
Cultural Renaissance (2000s – Present): The opening of the Edmonds Center for the Arts and the designation as the state's first "Certified Creative District" solidified the city's image as a center for culture, festivals, and the arts.
Architecture
Architectural Style and Urban Planning
The architecture of Edmonds reflects its transformation from an industrial logging town into a charming suburb with a rich cultural heritage. Unlike old European cities, you won't find medieval Gothic or ornate Baroque here. The city's appearance was shaped by American styles of the late 19th and 20th centuries, evolving from modest wooden structures to functional Modernism.
Historical Eras and Styles
Turn of the 20th Century (Vernacular and Craftsman): During its founding period, residential construction was dominated by simple wooden houses and the Craftsman style (an American offshoot of the Arts and Crafts movement). These are cozy bungalows with low-pitched gabled roofs, wide eaves, and spacious porches. Many of these have been preserved in the historic center and are carefully restored by their owners.
Early 20th Century (Neoclassicism): As prosperity grew, public buildings began to lean toward monumentality. A landmark example is the historic Carnegie Library (1911). The building is designed in the spirit of the Classical Revival: strict symmetry, columns, and a majestic entrance symbolized the city's cultural growth.
1930s–1940s (Art Deco and Streamline Moderne): Mid-century architecture is represented by the former high school building, now known as the Edmonds Center for the Arts. Built in the late 1930s, it demonstrates elements of the PWA Moderne style and understated Art Deco: geometric volumes, smooth surfaces, and an emphasis on the vertical lines of the entrance group.
Post-War Period (Mid-Century Modern): As the city expanded beyond the historic center onto the surrounding hills, Mid-Century Modern style gained popularity. These homes are characterized by floor-to-ceiling windows (to capture views of Puget Sound and the mountains), flat or shed roofs, and integration with the natural landscape, which is typical for Pacific Northwest regional architecture.
Urban Planning Features
The layout of Edmonds is dictated by the unique terrain of the area, which locals call "The Bowl":
Historic Center ("The Bowl"): The heart of the city is located in a natural amphitheater sloping down to the water. A classic rectangular street grid is preserved here, oriented toward the shoreline, making the center very pedestrian-friendly.
Central Axis: The main urban focal point is the intersection of 5th Avenue and Main Street, adorned with the famous city fountain. This spot functions as an unofficial town square and the hub of social life.
Waterfront Revitalization: A critical stage in development was the transition from industrial coastal development to recreational use. Former sawmill sites were transformed into public parks (such as Brackett’s Landing) and a marina, finally turning the city's face toward the sea.
Notable People
Famous Residents and Historical Figures
Edmonds has become home to many talented individuals: from pioneers of the Western frontier era to modern stars of television, sports, and literature. The city takes pride in its residents, who have contributed to the culture and history of not only the region but the entire country.
George Brackett City founder, lumberman, politician
A key figure in the city's history. Brackett arrived here in the 1870s, purchased land, and filed the town plat. He became the first mayor of Edmonds and personally contributed to its development, from building a wharf to laying out the streets.
Rick Steves Travel guru, author, TV host
Perhaps the most famous contemporary resident of the city. He is the author of popular guidebooks and the host of a travel show about Europe. His company's headquarters are located right here, and Steves himself is an active philanthropist, supporting the local Center for the Arts and the symphony orchestra.
Ken Jennings Intellectual, Jeopardy! record-holder, host
Jennings, who became a legend of American trivia shows thanks to his record-breaking winning streak, grew up in Edmonds. He often mentions the city as the place where he was raised and educated.
Anna Faris Hollywood actress, producer
A comedy star known for the "Scary Movie" franchise and the TV series "Mom." Anna spent her childhood and youth in Edmonds, where she graduated from the local Edmonds-Woodway High School before beginning her film career.
Dave Niehaus Sportscaster, Baseball Hall of Fame member
The legendary "voice" of the Seattle Mariners baseball team, whose broadcasts were heard by millions of fans. Niehaus lived in Edmonds for many years, remaining a devoted member of the local community for the rest of his life.
Rosalynn Sumners Figure skater, Olympic medalist
An outstanding athlete who won the world championship title and a silver medal at the 1984 Winter Olympics. Her success on the ice made her one of the city's most recognizable natives in the sporting world.