Olympia Prepares for the Rail Boom
As the territorial legislature pauses, a correspondent observes Olympia shaking off its sleepy, pioneer atmosphere in anticipation of a new railroad to Gray's Harbor.
The story, cleaned up
A cleaned-up reading of the newspaper page: spelling and layout repaired, one story lifted off a crowded page. It follows the original closely but it is not a transcription. The original page is below; read it if a detail matters.
In consequence of the adjournment of the Territorial Legislature, the capital has for the time being returned to its usual quietude. However, a change is coming. The great expectations for the wonderful growth of the city are causing a general infection all through the Sound. Agents for a large corporation are now looking for property and the right of way for intended new branch railroads. That the railroad from Olympia to Gray's Harbor will be built there is no question, and the chances are that there will be a large boom in that part of the Territory next spring. The people of the capital recognize the necessity of improving the harbor, and a channel will be commenced before many weeks. Property-holders are awakening to the realization that, to keep up with the times, they must invest their savings and induce industrious family men to immigrate hither.
“I say, without fear of successful contradiction, that never since the days of '49 in California has such an opportunity been offered the small capitalist as the Territory of Washington presents.”
The 'boom-town' fever described here in 1883—the breathless speculation over rail routes and the arrival of outside capital—is the founding DNA of the modern Pacific Northwest real estate market.
From readers
No comments yet. If you know something about this story — a correction, a family memory, a source — it belongs here.