The Pacific Northwest has a rich history, full of stories about Native Americans, early settlers, the Industrial Revolution and modern life. These stories come to life through various museums and displays in Hoquiam, a small town in western Washington State. Each of these historic sites provides a window into the past.
This town is home to the Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is known for its bird watching opportunities, especially during the spring migration. At this time, hundreds of thousands of birds stop at the wildlife refuge to eat and rest before continuing their trip to the Arctic. Over three hundred different species of birds can be spotted, some from as far away as South America.
The refuge is important because it is what is called a staging area for migrating shorebirds. Birds traveling between the Arctic and their southern habitats stop at the mudflats to feed and rest before continuing their journey. Some of the birds have traveled to Washington from as far away as Argentina. For many birdwatchers, the refuge offers a chance to see very exotic birds.
The best time to visit the wildlife refuge is during this migration. In the spring, usually the last week of April, the birds are headed north to the Arctic. At this time, hundreds of thousands of migrating birds stop at the estuary to rest. During the spring and fall migrations, approximately one million birds rest at Grays Harbor. Over three hundred different bird species have been spotted at the refuge.
The spring is the best viewing season as visitors can see sandpipers, falcons, dowitchers, dunlin, and red knots, as well as many other birds. In winter, birds spotted include geese, ducks, and hawks. The best viewing times at the wildlife refuge is from two hours before to two hours after high tide.
Grays Harbor County has many rivers and lakes in addition to the harbor and coastline. These waterways provide excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Fishermen can try for tuna, halibut and salmon in the open ocean, or fish for trout, bluegill or bass in a lake. Many different fishing guides and charter boats exist in the county to assist visitors. There is even a “Fish the Harbor” driving tour to acquaint visitors with the possibilities.
At that point, the home was abandoned. Finally, in the late 1960’s new owners took possession of the Castle and began restorations. Throughout the rest of the century, the Castle went through a series of owners and restorations. Finally, the home was turned into a bed and breakfast. Visitors can still stay at the Castle, enjoying the comforts of a time long past.
Finally, history buffs will enjoy visiting the Hoquiam Timberland Library. The building was constructed in 1911 as a new Carnegie library. The building was designed in the Prairie style, which is rare in the Northwest. The library has been remodeled and expanded, though the original form of the first building remains. The library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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