Nestled in the northwestern part of Washington State, Mason County is a place with a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Here are seven fascinating facts about the county's past that you might not know.
1. Mason County was named after Charles H. Mason, the first Secretary of the Washington Territory.
In 1854, the Washington Territory was created, and Isaac Stevens was appointed as its first Governor. The same year, Charles H. Mason was named as the first Secretary of the Territory. Mason County, which was established in 1854, was named after him.
2. The first permanent settlement in Mason County was established in 1853.
The first permanent settlement in Mason County was established in 1853 by a man named William Henry who built a cabin in what is now the city of Shelton. Other settlers soon followed, and the town began to grow.
3. The county was originally much larger than it is today.
When Mason County was first established, it encompassed a vast area that included parts of what are now Grays Harbor, Kitsap, and Thurston Counties. Over time, the county's borders were gradually reduced until they reached their current size.
4. The first courthouse in the county was built in 1865.
The first courthouse in Mason County was built in the town of Allyn in 1865. It was a small wooden building that served as the seat of county government until a larger facility was built in Shelton in the early 20th century.
5. Mason County was a major logging center in the early 20th century.
In the early 1900s, the forests of Mason County were a major source of timber, and logging camps sprang up throughout the area. The introduction of the railroad made it easier to transport logs out of the area, and logging remained an important industry in the county for many years.
6. The county's first radio station went on the air in 1938.
Radio station KMAS, which still operates today, went on the air in 1938. The station originally broadcast from a small building near downtown Shelton and played a mix of music and news programming.
7. A number of Hollywood films have been shot in Mason County over the years.
Mason County's natural beauty has made it a popular location for film production over the years. Movies like "Ring of Fire" and "The Postman" were filmed in the county, as well as TV shows like "Twin Peaks" and "Northern Exposure."
In conclusion, Mason County has a compelling history that spans several hundred years. From its earliest settlement to its current role as a hub for outdoor recreation and commerce, the county has played an important role in the development of the North American continent.
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