Since time immemorial, people have settled along the saltwater shores of what is today Washington State, supported by the rich maritime resources for food, shelter, inspiration, trade, and transportation. Today, Washington’s shores continue to serve as home to many vibrant maritime cultures. The stories of this place are diverse, complex, and constantly evolving. To help share these narratives, Maritime Washington uses three interpretive themes as an organizing framework: people, movement, and resources. Learn more about the people, places, and cultures that make up Maritime Washington by exploring this collection of stories from our shores. And be sure to check back frequently—we’re always adding new voices to this story bank.
By: Cynthia Nims Oysters have long held a significant place in the culture, economy, and gastronomy of Washington State. For countless generations, oysters have been
Japanese Immigrants and Washington’s Oyster Industry Read More
Meet Courtney Hart: the crustacean program manager for the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe. Her work is—in a word—complicated.
Women on the Waterfront: Courtney Hart Read More
“I desired to be an American like everyone, but how proud I am now of having Norwegian ancestry of the first generation in this country,
Women on the Waterfront: Thea Foss Read More
Meet Jeremy and Jason Holden, Jamestown S’Klallam fishermen and owners of a waterfront restaurant serving Native-caught seafood.
Working Waterfronts: Moby Duck Chowder, Port Angeles Read More
It’s the 1940s and you’re the cook aboard an eight-person purse seine fishing crew going out for six-day expeditions in Puget Sound. How do you get
Women on the Waterfront: Anita Luvera Mayer Read More
Meet Clare Petrich: dock owner, international envoy, and former Port of Tacoma Commissioner. Clare’s strong connections to her Croatian family history, passion for international dialogue,
Women on the Waterfront: Clare Petrich Read More
Beth Adams is one of the chief engineers of the M/V Puyallup—one of Washington State’s iconic green and white ferries. A “Jumbo Mark II” Class ferry, the Puyallup weighs 6,000 tons, and can carry more than 200 cars and 2000 passengers every trip. Beth is responsible for ensuring the Puyallup can keep on sailing.
Women on the Waterfront: Beth Adams Read More
Meet Captain Katrina Anderson of the tugboat Wedell Foss. A fourth-generation tugboater, she brings huge ships in and out of ports across the Puget Sound, and is one of the only women who captain these important ships.
Women on the Waterfront: Katrina Anderson Read More
How a one-off challenge from a plywood company became one of the most timeless boat designs to ever grace the seas.
Saving The Thunderbirds Read More
Fisherman and Swinomish Tribal Council member J.J. Wilbur shares about his Tribe’s First Salmon Ceremony and Blessing of the Fleet.
Salmon Ceremony: This is Maritime Washington Read More
Meet fish-tender and self-proclaimed “Boat Mom” Cathy Wade and learn about her 50+ years of maritime experience fishing between Bellingham and Alaska aboard the ferry-turned-fishing boat Chief Kwina.
Women on the Waterfront: Cathy Wade Read More
Stories of fishing, farming, wartime hardships, and enduring friendships abound in the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Community Collection.
Maritime Voices: Bainbridge Island Japanese American Community Collection Read More
Chelsea Farms Manager Theo Walker introduces the world of shellfish farming—from the challenges of working on the water to the intricate process of nurturing oysters
Sea to Table: This is Maritime Washington Read More
Meet Joy Kacoroski—Interpretive Specialist for Washington State Parks—and learn how interpretation helps residents and visitors connect with and understand our maritime resources. Can you tell
State Parks: This is Maritime Washington Read More
Meet Nate Seward—captain of the schooner Adventuress—and step aboard the 110-year-old historic tall ship helping to get youth on the water. Can you tell me
Tall Ships: This is Maritime Washington Read More
As you explore, you can help take care of these special places so they’re still around for your next visit. Recreate responsibly and follow Leave No Trace principles while exploring outdoor spaces. Visit popular destinations during off-times or shoulder season. Support the communities you visit by frequenting locally owned businesses. And always research guidance for specific locations before you travel — especially for Tribal sites.
