Stevenson, Washington, located in the heart of the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, is a town steeped in rich history. This charming community is home to a number of historical sites and landmarks that offer visitors a glimpse into its past.
From the Stevenson Landing and the Bonneville Hot Springs Resort to the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum, there are plenty of places to explore and learn about the town’s fascinating heritage.
Whether you are a history buff or just looking to immerse yourself in the culture of this picturesque town, Stevenson has something to offer for everyone.
1. WA State Historical Marker #18 – The North Bank Railroad
WA State Historical Marker #18 in Stevenson, WA, USA is dedicated to The North Bank Railroad.
This historical marker commemorates the importance of the railroad in the development of the region. The North Bank Railroad was a crucial transportation route that connected the communities along the Columbia River.
It played a significant role in the economic growth of the area by providing a means to transport goods and people. The railroad was instrumental in the logging industry, as it allowed for the efficient transportation of timber from the forests to the mills.
This helped fuel the economy and create jobs in the region. The North Bank Railroad also played a role in the settlement of the area, as it provided a reliable means of transportation for early pioneers and helped connect the isolated communities.
Rating: 10
Address: 21 Wauna Lake Rd, Stevenson, WA 98648, United States
2. Stevenson
Stevenson is a charming town located in the state of Washington, USA. This picturesque town is known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty.
From its quaint downtown area to its breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge, Stevenson is a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.
One of the most notable historical places in Stevenson is the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum.
This museum showcases the history of the Columbia River Gorge and its impact on the surrounding communities.
Visitors can learn about the region’s Native American heritage, early explorers, and the development of the area’s transportation networks.
Another must-see historical site in Stevenson is the Skamania County Pioneer Cemetery. This cemetery is the final resting place of some.
3. WA State Historical Marker #19 – Bridge of the Gods
The WA State Historical Marker #19 – Bridge of the Gods is a significant historical landmark located in Stevenson, WA, USA.
This marker commemorates the iconic bridge that once spanned the Columbia River, connecting Washington and Oregon. The Bridge of the Gods holds a special place in the history of the region, as it provided a vital link for travelers and traders in the early days of settlement.
The bridge was originally constructed as a toll bridge in the late 19th century, allowing for easier transportation across the river. Unfortunately, the original Bridge of the Gods was destroyed in a fire in the early 20th century.
Today, a new bridge stands in its place, but the historical marker serves as a reminder of the bridge’s importance in the development.
Rating: 9
Address: Stevenson, WA 98648, United States
4. WA State Historical Marker – Beacon Rock
The WA State Historical Marker for Beacon Rock in Stevenson, WA, USA is a significant historical site. This marker commemorates the rich history of the area and serves as a reminder of the past events that have shaped the region.
Visitors to the marker can learn about the history of Beacon Rock and its importance in the development of the area. Beacon Rock is a prominent geological feature in the Columbia River Gorge and has played a vital role in the history of the region.
The rock has been a navigational landmark for travelers along the Columbia River for centuries.
It has also been a site of cultural significance for Native American tribes in the area. The WA State Historical Marker for Beacon Rock provides visitors with information about the geological formation of the rock and its culture.
Rating: 10
Address: JXHH+HH, Stevenson, WA 98648, United States
5. Columbia Gorge Museum
Located in Stevenson, Washington, the Columbia Gorge Museum offers visitors a fascinating look into the history of the area.
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the Gorge’s inhabitants and natural history through a variety of exhibits. As visitors enter the museum, they are greeted by a collection of photographs that provide a visual journey through the Gorge’s past.
These images offer insight into the lives of the people who have called the Gorge home over the years. One of the highlights of the Columbia Gorge Museum is its collection of replicas.
These detailed recreations bring to life important events and moments in the Gorge’s history, allowing visitors to experience them firsthand. In addition to photos and replicas, the museum also features a variety of displays that showcase the natural.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 509-427-8211
Address: 990 SW Rock Creek Dr, Stevenson, WA 98648, United States
Website: columbiagorge.org
6. Ft. Cascades Historic Site
The Ft. Cascades Historic Site in Stevenson, WA, USA is a significant historical landmark that holds great importance in the area.
This site played a crucial role in the early settlement of the region and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Located along the Columbia River, Ft. Cascades was originally established as a military outpost in the mid-19th century to protect settlers and traders in the area.
The fort served as a strategic location for trade and communication between Native American tribes and European settlers.
The remains of Ft. Cascades includes the fort’s original stone walls and foundations, as well as interpretive signs that provide insight into its history. Visitors can explore the grounds and imagine what life was like for the soldiers.
Rating: 9.6
Address: North Bonneville, WA 98639, United States
Website: usace.contentdm.oclc.org
Conclusion
Stevenson, WA boasts a rich history and numerous historical sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the past.
From the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center to the Skamania County Historical Museum, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the region’s cultural heritage.
Whether exploring the Native American petroglyphs at Indian Heaven or visiting the restored 19th-century homes in town, Stevenson’s historical places provide a fascinating look at the past and a deeper appreciation for the area’s unique history.
Alejandro Vidal