History of Vancouver, Washington

History of Vancouver

Located at the head of the deep water navigation of Columbia River, Vancouver has a long and rich history that ties in with the history of the country. Vancouver started as a military post following the establishment of Fort Vancouver in 1848. The Fort was called after Captain George Vancouver of the Hudson’s Bay Company. Today, the Fort stands as a nationwide historical site, and as a testimony of the abundant history the city.

Apart from the abundant military history of Vancouver, the city likewise hosted and assembled the first steamboat to operate on the Pacific Ocean, the SS Beaver. The steamboat was shipped from England through a sailboat and the craftsmen of Vancouver put together the paddle wheel and engines in the city.

The assembly of the SS Beaver in the city is a testament to the manufacturing, farming, and lumbering markets around the city that set up its diverse financial base.

However, Vancouver was not constantly the dynamic and flourishing cities that stands today. Throughout the 18th century, the area was lived in by the Chinook Indians.

When the George Vancouver finally settled in the location, he declared the land, and at that time, it was the very first English settlement in the Pacific Northwest. During these developmental years, Vancouver would see several skirmishes consisted of the 1812 war between 2 business that operated in the area.

The tactical place of the location made Vancouver a perfect military base, which caused servicemen settling in the location. A lot of them settled in the area, that army barracks and homes were built throughout the 1800s. Some of these buildings still stand today, including the Officer’s Row.

In fact, General Ulysses S. Grant home still stands in Vancouver today, totally remodelled to its previous splendor. Other noteworthy military actions where the city of Vancouver took part in include the 2nd World War where it acted as a shipway for ships that prevented German submarines.

After the war, the Kaiser shipway would put Vancouver on the map as a center of trade and commerce in the state of Washington. The development of the Alcoa Aluminum business and the Kaiser shipyard, Vancouver was set to end up being a production and commercial hub in Washington state.

Apart from being a military center, Vancouver is likewise home to the very first Roman Catholic church in the state. The Cathedral was referred to as St. James Cathedral until the bishop got a transfer to Seattle.

The abundant history of Vancouver makes it among the most remarkable cities in the state of Washington and the entire company.