Book Description

This book chronicles a report on Washington territory. It is divided into six chapters with each discussing a different topic. First is, Itinerary, which mentions briefly the places the author visited, and the dates. Second, An Account of Washington Territory, which includes some of its History, its Location, and it's great Pacific Market. There is also given some account of the topography, climate, soils, and natural vegetation, with special stress upon the great forests of the Puget Sound basin. The lumber industry is next described, followed by a somewhat full account of agricultural products, especially those of the Great Plain of the Columbia River. Finally, in this division, something is said of the available labor of the country. Third, Geology of Washington Territory. In one division the author gives the Historical and Structural Geology of the Territory, and in another division the Economic Geology. In the latter, he describes the beds of coal, iron ore, granite, limestone, and marble, and also the ores of the precious and base metals as they have been discovered in all parts of the Territory. Fourth, the book discusses the special interests of the Seattle, Lake Shore, and Eastern Railway. Starting with Seattle, to show its advantages as a terminus. The author then takes up the great timber interest along the line, which, in its magnitude and value, will give this road pre-eminence over all others. The agricultural products along the line were also spoken of. Next, this chapter shows the advantages that this road will have in the development of the great magnetic iron-ore beds on both sides of the Cascade Mountains, and also the remarkable juxtaposition of ore, flux, and fuel, which are found in the Snoqualmie Valley. Fifth, Cities and Towns are briefly noticed which will, or may, bear an important relation to the Seattle Road. Sixth, a supplementary chapter, giving the latest information.