Port Townsend

Port Townsend, the “City of Dreams�, is located in Jefferson County, Washington, United States. It was once speculated that this city would become the largest harbor on the West coast of the United States. This city is situated at the northeastern end of the Olympic Peninsula. The Admiralty Inlet is an important landmark. Among other landmarks are the three famous State Parks - Fort Casey, Fort Worden, and Fort Flagler.

It was in 1972 that Captain George Vancouver first sailed into the Strait of Juan de Fuca and explored this beautiful city. He named it as “Port Townshend� to honor his friend, the Marquis of Townshend. This good, safe, and capacious harbor was officially recognized on April 24, 1851. The American Indian tribes that settled here included the Twana, Quinault, Chemakum, Clallam, and Hoh.

Today, owing to the Victorian style of architecture of the commercial buildings and houses built in the city during 1800’s, Port Townsend is also popularly known as the “Washington’s Victoria Seaport�. Besides the magnificent Victorian buildings, the natural scenic beauty at the northeast tip of the Olympic Peninsula is also breathtaking. A part of this beautiful city (mainly the Downtown waterfront) is designated as the ‘National Historic District’.  The large, well-preserved buildings of historical importance include the famous Carnegie Library, the Rose Theatre, the Federal building, and the Elks Lodge that is now known for its Silver water Cafe. Bell Tower situated on the bluff above the Downtown is one of its kinds in the US.

Port Townsend is not only the Jefferson County’s seat but also its only incorporated city. The city is also well known for the various cultural events held here every year. One such event is the ‘Kinetic Skulpture Race’. Also, it is the maritime center for boat builders and various other crafts and industries. Developing artillery fortifications at Fort Worden is one of the major modes of maintaining the city’s economic stability. Another attraction here is the ‘Jazz Workshop’. It is held every summer and the famous Jazz musicians who perform in this workshop attract tourists from all over the world. This city is also twinned with Ichikawa, Japan.

In addition to various road links, one can use the ferry from the Washington State Ferry system to reach Port Townsend. This ferry links this city with the Whidbey Island situated on the east side of Puget Sound.