A Report on Washington Territory

"A Report on Washington Territory" by William Henry Ruffner is a 19th-century snapshot of a growing region, revealing the economic and geographic landscape of Washington Territory after the arrival of the Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway. The report details Ruffner's journey throughout the territory in 1887, where he meticulously records the natural resources, climate, and promising commercial opportunities he observes. Focusing on locations like Snoqualmie Pass and the Guye Mines, Ruffner highlights the potential for industrial development, particularly in coal and iron, making the report a key resource for understanding Washington's economic possibilities during a period of rapid growth and exploration.