Located in a river valley about 20 miles south of Seattle, Auburn, Washington, has a rich history that spans over 150 years. This city, flourishing as both an agricultural center and an industrial hub, has seen its fair share of transformations, from its early days inhabited by indigenous tribes to its current status. The early non-native settlers were drawn here in the 1850s, attracted by the fertile lands and abundant resources, laying the foundations for a long-standing community.
The valleys around Auburn originally served as the home to the Skopamish, Smalhkamish, and Stkamish tribes. The arrival of settlers in the 1850s marked the beginning of significant changes in the area. Conflicts over land rights soon escalated into the Treaty Wars, leading to the creation of the Muckleshoot reservation – the only Indian reservation within King County.
Despite these turbulent times, the area saw a resurgence of settlers like the Neely family, who were among the first to return and rebuild their lives, contributing to the establishment and growth of the community.
The town of Auburn initially bore the name Slaughter, a homage to Lieutenant William Slaughter, who fell near the area during the conflicts with indigenous groups. However, as the community grew and new faces arrived, the harsh connotations of the name prompted a change.
By 1893, the town was renamed Auburn, inspired by Oliver Goldsmith’s poem “The Deserted Village. ” This renaming reflected a desire for a more inviting and serene community identity. This renaming marked a new chapter for Auburn, as settlers continued to pour in, bringing diverse industries and cultural influences to the area.
Agriculture played a central role in Auburn’s economy, with the fertile land initially supporting hop farming before transitioning to dairy and berry farms due to crop challenges. However, the farmers consistently battled with flooding, a problem that persisted until significant engineering efforts, including the construction of diversion dams and the Howard Hanson Dam in 1962.
These developments effectively managed river flows, safeguarding the valley’s agricultural endeavors and laying the groundwork for Auburn’s prosperity.
The arrival of the railroads, notably the Northern Pacific Railroad in 1883 and the Seattle-Tacoma Interurban line in 1902, heralded a new era of connectivity and economic growth. This enhanced accessibility fostered the establishment of various businesses, transforming Auburn from a rural community into a burgeoning industrial center.
Despite challenges such as the Great Depression and the World War II era, which saw local Japanese American farmers interned, and their lands seized, Auburn continued to thrive, attracting even more businesses and educational institutions in the postwar years.
Auburn has further evolved from its agricultural roots into a modern industrial hub in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It is home to facilities like The Boeing Company and attracts large shopping centers like the super-mall built in the 1990s.
Despite these changes, Auburn has managed to preserve elements of its historic past, such as the Neely Mansion and the downtown area, which maintain a classic American Main Street look. These landmarks remind the city’s long and varied history, from its early days to its current status as a vibrant community and industrial leader.
Auburn, Washington, represents a blend of history and progress, with its rich past deeply interwoven with the vibrancy of modern life. For residents and visitors alike, Auburn offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of an American town, from its early indigenous and settler roots through agricultural prosperity to its present-day industrial success. This city continues to welcome all who come to experience its historic landmarks, bustling economy, and the warm spirit of its community.
