SNOHOMISH — The city is set to mark the 150th anniversary of its settlement in 2009 and people are starting to prepare for the celebration of their town’s milestone.
“It’s something we need to celebrate and recognize our history,” City Councilman Dean Randall said Friday. “I think it’s pretty important. We are the oldest community in Snohomish County.”
The City Council on Tuesday decided to create a committee of volunteers to plan for the celebration. The city is trying to engage various community groups and people in the process, said City Councilwoman Karen Guzak, who will serve on the committee.
Snohomish takes pride in its heritage and tradition, Guzak said.
“I believe what makes Snohomish unique is its historic district,” she said. “I consider Snohomish a jewel of the Northwest.”
In 1859, white settlers came up the Snohomish River and built homes on both sides of the river, hoping to capitalize on a new road planned in the area. The road was never built, but the year marked the founding of Snohomish as a community. Steamboats brought loggers and supplies to the town.
Snohomish quickly became the economic and cultural center of Snohomish County. It served as a county seat for 36 years before it lost to Everett in 1897, said Warner Blake, president of the Snohomish Historical Society. Snohomish was incorporated as a city in 1890.
Blake said he hopes there will be several events to celebrate the 150th anniversary.
“I’m preparing for a yearlong celebration,” he said.
The city plans to form the committee of volunteers and propose some ideas about the anniversary this summer, city officials said. The committee is expected to organize marketing and fundraising events and to discuss specifics about the celebration.
Snohomish residents are encouraged to pitch ideas and to volunteer, Guzak said.
“We will be involving a lot of city organizations,” she said.
Reporter Yoshiaki Nohara: 425-339-3029 or ynohara@heraldnet.com.
Get involved
The city of Snohomish plans to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2009. Volunteers are sought for a committee to organize the celebration. Those who are interested in the committee or sharing ideas for the event may contact Debbie Emge, the city’s economic development manager, at 360-282-3197 or emge@ci.snohomish.wa.us.
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