This genuinely historic community is listed on both the State and National Registries of Historic Places. Snohomish is the oldest and best preserved city in the county. The city's historic district boasts many beautiful Victorian and Arts &Crafts-era homes built around the turn of the century. The annual Historic Homes Tour is a must for those who appreciate this period architecture. Call 360-568-5235 for this year's tour dates.
Step back in time at the Blackman's House Museum or Old Snohomish Village for a glimpse of life at the turn-of-the-century. All of the buildings at the Old Snohomish Village have been refurbished in a style becoming the late 19th century and include a blacksmith shop, weaver's shop, Cook's store (circa 1910), the 1878 Kikendal cabin, a 1902 Victorian cottage and children's playhouse.
Visitors will enjoy strolling among the city's late 19th- and early 20th-century architecture and stopping at the delightful variety of charming shops and popular restaurants. Also known as the "Antique Capital of the Northwest," Snohomish has a wonderful selection of antiques with over 450 dealers. From Indian artifacts to Tiffany art glass, there is a seemingly endless array of quality antiques and collectibles from which to choose.
Treat yourself to a scenic overhead view of the Snohomish River Valley in a hot air balloon. Plane and helicopter rides as well as parachuting are available at Harvey Airfield.
Snohomish Washington Area History Quick Fact
1877
The Bicycle Tree
A landmark south of Snohomish that became very popular in the late 1800's was a large cedar tree measuring 48 feet in circumference. When the bicycle became so very popular, a path was made that ran parallel to the road to ride on. The cyclists hired a logger, by the name of Milligan to cut an arch through the tree, for the sum of $15. The arch was 12 feet high and 5 feet wide.
1903
City Streets
In 1903 Snohomish had many dirt streets, and if there was a sidewalk, it was a wooden sidewalk. There was a plank road on some of the downtown streets for a ways. The planks were about three inches wide running across the street. This is were you walked and if you stepped off the planks you stepped into water or mud. These planks were torn out and First Street was paved with brick. When the brick pavement was finished there was a three day celebration! Every Saturday they would wash First Street witha fire hose. It was kept cleaner than it is today.
1911
Disastrous Fire Hits First Street
First Street between Avenues B and C, was destroyed when a small blaze in the Palace Cafe on the South side of the street got out of control on Memorial Day, 1911 at about four a.m. Thirty-five business structures were put out of business, with $173,000 worth of goods destroyed.
Thank you to the Snohomish Tourism Bureau.
Snohomish Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 135, Snohomish ....... 360-568-2526
City of Snohomish
116 Union Ave, Snohomish ....... 360-568-3115
Snohomish School District #201
Administrative Offices
1601 Ave D, Snohomish ....... 360-563-7300
