Sequim Washington
The "Blue Hole" on the North Olympic PeninsulaThe first railroad in Port Angeles, build by Ismael Filion, has a home-built locomotive that ran on wood rails.
The first passenger train trip from Port Angeles to Sequim was in September 1915. Later in 1916, the train continued to Port Townsend, where a boat would take passengers to Seattle or other destinations.
The first locomotive owned by Sequim Logging Company was unloaded from a barge on the west side of Sequim Bay and “walked” down the road to the company’s railroad in Blyn. The train depot in Sequim opened in 1916, and was in use until 1967, when it was destroyed to put in the Sequim Avenue entrance from the bypass.
There was a major logging camp and railroad shop located between McCleay Hall and Cays Road.
The railroad was built into Sequim from the west. The Milwaukee had already built from Port Angeles to Majestic and served the line from a barge slip in Port Angeles. The line from Majestic to Twin was built a little later. Non of the railroads in Clallam and Jefferson Counties were directly connected to the rail system in the rest of the U.S. They were all served by railcar barges or car floats.
The last regular passenger run ended on April 1, 1931. The trains stopped running in 1985. The railroad rails and ties were removed in 1989.
Until 1931, there was no road around Hood Canal, and the main way to get to Seattle was to take the train to Port Townsend and then the ferry to Seattle. It would take 4-4-1/2 hours to travel from Port Angeles to Seattle at a cost of $2.25.
The train was run by the tide instead of the clock. It was necessary to have high tide to run the freight cars from the track to specially made barges for the trip to Seattle. When the ferry from a Port Townsend-Seattle run was moved to a Port Ludlow-Edmonds run, passenger service ended. The trains continued to run freight cars.
(from the Sequim Museum and the Hauff Collection as run on placemats for the 2010 Sequim Irrigation Festival)
Click here for an essay about Sequim’s history.
Recently we got a question about the spelling of Sequim as “Sequin”. Historically the name has always been “Sequim”. Anything else would be a typo in reference to this area. (see: http://sequimgazette.com/
Through the years, the Sequim News, published by the City of Sequim, has run some interesting historical tidbits, which are included below:
Tidbits from Sequim’s local history…
Sequim History 1913
The Mayor was Jilson White; the Town Clerk was Jess S. Mantle. The first two ordinances set the location and time of the Council meetings, being the School Auditorium on the first Wednesday after the second Monday of each month at 8 pm. Public notices were posted at the Grant Army of Republic Ball (sic); the Post Office; and at the regular location of the Council meeting. The salaries for the three City employees were $15. per month each for the Town Clerk and Town Marshal, and $50 for the Town Treasurer. (from Sequim News, City of Sequim July 2005 issue)
Sequim History 1914
H.P. Barber was Mayor and Jess Mantle was Clerk/Treasurer. This year, the City set several license fees including peddlers and solicitors ($10 per day); temporary stores ($25 per day); circue ($50 per day); carnivals ($25-$40 per day depending on the number of shows); theaters, opera, concerts, shows, exhibitions or other public amusements were $5 per day or $150 per year; bowling alleys were $15 per year.
Billiard tables and pool tables fees were $5 to $10 per table, with operation hours from 7 a.m. to midnight. Dog tags were $2 per year. Taxis were also licensed.The Town Street Commissioner position was created at salary of $3 per day for an 8-hour day.
Also the City Attorney position was created on an as-needed basis.Citizens were prohibited from carrying concealed weapons and discharging firearms, and gambling was outlawed within the City limits. Speed limits were set at 15 mph, and speed fines were from $1 to $10. Any citizen jailed who could not afford to pay court costs and fines could provide manual labor in lieu of the fines.Teen curfews for boys under 18 years was 9:30 p.m. and girls under 17 years was 8:30 p.m. from April 1 to October 1; and 8:30 p.m. the balance of the year.J. L. Keeler was given authority to construct, operate and maintain a public light and power plant for 25 years in City of Sequim.
(from Sequim News, City of Sequim, August 2005)
Sequim History 1915
W. H. Schumacher was the mayor of Sequim. The city attorney position was created subject to appointment or removal by the mayor. Roller rinks had to close at midnight Saturday and remain closed until Monday morning. Dance halls also had to close at midnight on Saturdays; this ordinance was repealed six months later.Regulations were created concerning construction, maintenance and repair of irrigation ditches upon or crossing public streets, alleys and all public grounds of the City. Construction of new sidewalks were made the responsibility of the abutting property owner.Explosives were not allowed within the City limits without the permission of the Town Marshal. A street-naming convention was adopted providing that avenues would run north and south, and strets would run east and west. All business licenses had to be approved by Council, unless it was a very short-term license, such as a public amusement. he last ordinance of the year created procedures for Local Improvement Districts.
(from Sequim News, City of Sequim, Sept. 2005)
Sequim History – 1917
A three-member Board of Park Commissioners was created to control and supervise the parks, including creating rules and regulations for Council approval. A one-mill tax levy was assessed for purposes of maintaining and improving the parks The Sequim Athletic Club offered to sell Athletic Park to the City for $175. The City had a special election on the issue. Forty-sixx ballots were cast in favor; none opposed. The park was purchased.Sidewalk improvements was assessed to property owners in the Robert Burton acreage; First Plat of Sequim; Bell’s Addition; Milwaukee Addition and J.B. Knapman areage.An ordinance was passed to prohibit horses, mules and burros from running at large in streets, alleys, public squares or parks. Any such animals were impounded and if not claimed, sold at auction.
(from Sequim News, City of Sequim, Nov. 2005)
Sequim History – 1918
This was a somewhat quiet year in Sequim. Sidewalks continued to be built with assessments to the property owners, along with grading of the streets being accomplished throughout the year. April 13 was declared by City County as “Clean Up Day” in Sequim.The year 1918 began carrying forward a deficit in the treasury of $2,505.80; approximately $700 more than the deficit carried forward from 1916 to 1917. It ended with a deficit of $2,008.91. It was decided to adop a 16 mill levy for 1919 to cover the deficit and pay off debt: 9 mills for current expense; 6 mills for indebtedness; and 1 mill for park purposes. This levy would raise $1,397. Receipts were estimated at $403. The annual budget adopted for 1919 was $1,800. A public hearing was held in which no one from the public attended to voice opposition
.(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, Dec. 2005)
Sequim History – 1920-21
In 1920, the Town Clerk and Town Marshall received salary increases to $25 per month each. The Town Treasurer received an increase to $100 per year. The fire engine addition to Town Hall was constructed at a cost of $125.
Noxious weeds (thistles) were an issue in 1921, and the Clerk was directed to contact the County Commissioners to enforce the state law against noxious weeds.
An ordinance establishing building permits for the construction of, repair, additions to, removal, or razing of buildings was passed.
.(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, Feb. 2006)
Sequim History – 1923
Sequim’s Volunteer Fire Department was formed in April. Elected as Fire Chief was J. N Otto with Fred Evans as secretary-treasurer. Town Marshall Andy Peterson resigned in April and was replaced by J. B. Otto.It was decided that Sequim’s May Dan celebration date would be held at the same time as the opening of the Edmonds-Port Ludlow ferry.City election found 112 votes cast for Councilor J. N. Otto, with lesser votes each for Herbert Goddfrey, Stephen D. Merrill, and David burrowes. W. H. Schumacher was elected Town Treasurer. The election inspector and judges received $3 each for their day’s work.
(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, April 2006)
Sequim History – 1927
Harry E. Peterson was voted in as Mayor by the Citizens. V.A. Grant was given a building permit to building a one-story 26′ x 36′ frame home with no basement for the cost of $2,250, with estimated completion of 60 days; the City purchased 5-1/2 gallons of gas for $110 – or 20 cents a gallon. The City purchased a chlorinator for use with the City’s water system.
(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, Aug. 2006)
Sequim History – 1929
Council established a “business center” in Sequim running one block on the east and west sides of Sequim Avenue, and from Hammond to Spruce Streets. Eight foot concrete sidewalks including the curb were declared necessary and essential throughout the business center, with four foot sidewalks required in all other parts of town. A local improvement districct was created apportioning the osts of the sidewalks to property owners.
The town implemented a deposit of $5 for use of town water (the current depoosit is $110 or a letter of redit).
An ordinance was passed requiring building plans specifying the building materials to be used for construction to be submitted to the Building Committee for approval, thereby issue a permit. (There had been a recent fire in town that encouraged using proper building materials for construction.)
(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, Sept. 2006
Sequim History – 1935
Council approved the organization of a Junior Patrol for the Police Department. It was agreed to purchase the necessary signs and rain coats for the boys.Council approved purchase of a hanging lantern with a flasher to be placed at the intersection of Sequim Avenue and Washington Street. The cost of the light and installation was $46.50. This was Sequim’s first stop light.The town joined the Association of Washington Cities and Towns. As of today, Sequim is still a member of that organization.The Town sold a building on Washington Street to the Lehman Brothers.The County donated land on Grennan’s Hill, north of Sequim, to use for a garbage dump.
(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, April 2007)
Sequim History – 1935
Letter from Mayor J. S. Bugge – August 17, 1935 to KOMO-KJR News, Seattle, WA
“I will try to furnish you with enugh data for your proposed mythical tour of Sequim.
“Sequim, an Indian word meaning “Happy Hunting Grounds” and very appropriately names, is situated on the Olympic Peninsula, under the shadow of the Olympic Mountains, 16 miles east of Port Angeles.
“Its hundreds of fertile dairy farms, comprising 50,000 acres of irrigated land, are so conveniently located, that the farmer can, within one hour of driving, be on top of one of the many snow covered ridges of teh Olympics, on the other hand only a short distance to the Straits of Juan de Fuca, the home of the famous Dungeness Crab.
“Two years ago, H.F. Hogue came to the Sequim Valley to experiment with growing peas for commercial purposes, during the month of July and August of this year, there were an average of 300 pickers a day in the fields around Sequim, and the peas were shipped by refrigerated cars to New York City.
“Last, but not least, we have our ideal climatic condition which, according to the U. of W. research bureau, lists Sequim and teh area south of Londa, Englad, as the two most ideal climates for human habitation in the world.”
(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, August 2007)
Sequim History – 1936
The American Legion Auxiliary and County Commissioner appeared before Council and asked that the Town sponsor the new library project at no cost to the Town, and also to accept the library when finished as one of the Town’s assets, with no cost of upkeep or other expense to the Town. A Resolution to do that was approved by Council.
A special meeting was called at the Olympic Cafe for dinner with Council and residents Dave Burrowes, John Bucher, Henry Knapman, Louis Spath, Mark Gibson and Ernest Schmuck concerning procuring easements from each of the property owners for the proposed sewerage system. The Town paid from $25 to $200 for the easements. Council authorized the issuance of revenue bonds in the amount of $25,000 in denominations of $500 each for the construction of the sewerage system.
The Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club spoke to Council regarding proposed archways for the entrances to Sequim. Council agreed to provide the cememt for installation of the archways.
(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, May 2007)
Sequim History – 1937
Elections in 1936 voted in new Councilors E. H. Brandt, Iris Marshall and Guy Holmes. Mayor Bugge was re-elected. Councilors McMahon and Wagner were not up for re-election.
The Sequim Recreational Council was created consisting of a single representative from each civic organization in Sequim. Its purpose was to act in an advisory capacity in connection with all matters concerning recreation and would make recommendations to City Council. The City Garbage Collection office was created making it unlawful for anyone other than this office to collect garbage.
(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, July 2007)
Sequim History – 1938
A new election brought Councilors Thad Wagner, Harry McMahon and Erwin Brandt to join Marshall, Holmes and Mayor Bugge. R. W. Schumacher was voted in as Treasurer. Mayor Bugge re-appointed Lloyd Fisher as Fire Chief. Councilor Harry mcMahon passed away August 6, 1038. The garbage contract was bid and awarded to Vern Van Ausdale.
Mrs. Carr, Mrs. Dryke, Mrs. Mary Rhodefer and Mrs. Pearl Sindars approached the Council for support of a proposed project for a playground. The vote was unanimous to sponsor the playground.
Sequim History – 1940
This was another quiet year in Sequim.
The Fire Department, which was not part of the city government, was hired to burn the grass in vacant lots because it was a fire hazard. Monthly, the Fire Department would clean the reservoir.
Council approved street lights at the intersections of 2nd Avenue West at Spruce, Cedar, Bell and Maple, if PSP&LCo would provide the cost of installation. Does anyone recall such lights?
(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, November 2007)
Sequim History – 1942
New councilors Ferguson and Brett were sworn in. Councilor J.P. Jensen passed away late in the year. His postion was filled through an election in December to be seated in January.
Sequim played a roll in the war effort. Dr. Wilcox reported for Civilian Defense that the Dim-Out had proved quite effective. A Practice Alert on December 7 at 8 p.m. in Sequim to commemorate Pearl Harbor will activate all City equipment, properly manned and Civilian Defense Workers. A permanent First Aid Station was set up in the Presbyterian Church. The City provided a phone at the church.
(From Sequim News, City of Sequim, January 2008)
Sequim History – 1943
W. T. Alton was sworn in as Mayor along with new councilors Dr. Olts and Iris Marshall.
The Milwaukee Railway was granted permission to install a water tank at its station. The railway used about 7,000 gallons of water daily.
Traffic fees for violators resulted in a minimum fine of $1.00 plus costs for double parking and $5.00 plus costs for running the stop light.
It was decided no commercial bee business was to be allowed in the Town limits.
(from Sequim News, Feb. 2008)
Sequim History – 1945
Councilors in office were Mayor Alton and Councilors Marshall, Ferguson, Fleetwood, Brett and Merrill.
The Town entered into an agreement with the PUD District #1 for $150 per year until 1960 for Franchise or Utility Tax, with the understanding that rates will not be advanced, and that the town will be given advantage of any decreased rate.
The town of Sequim was growing. Buildings were being moved into town from the county. There was concern about the condition of the buildings. An ordinance was written to require inspections of buildings to be moved prior to permitting the move.
Lloyd Fisher was appointed Fire Chief. Town Engineer M.K. Snyder was hired for engineering work to be done on the water system for $3 per hour. The clerk was asked to write to the State Patrol to ask them to send a man to Sequim to aid in straightening out the present traffic conditions.
(from City News April 2008)
Sequim History – 1946
Councilors in office were Mayor Alton, and Brett, Ferguson, Marshall, Merrill and Olts.
Cedar Street was extended from Sequim Avenue to Third Avenue.
The first license for a taxi stand was issued in 1946.
The City deed the City Park property to Sequim School District #323. The City maintained its rights to hold the annual May Day Festival on the property.
Concerning water rates, it was decided to charge all homes $2.40 instead of the previous rates of $2.40 for homes with tubs, and $1.80 for those with showers. A citizen complained about the $.50 maintenance fee charged to sewer customers, feeling the fee was too high.
Lloyd Fisher resigned as Fire Chief and replaced by Iris Marshall.
(from Sequim News May 2008)
Sequim History – 1947
By popular demand, Council directed the City Clerk to blow a Noon Whistle.
Council voted to allow the County Library Board use of the Clyde Rhodefer Memorial Library for one year.
Marshall V. A. Bomstead retired; Marshall Joe Priest took over the position temporarily.
The Building Committee requested the Clerk to require patrons needing building permits to furnish building plans.
A petition, signed by a large number of Sequim taxpayers, was read asking Council to include a 2 mill tax levy in the budget for the next year to meet expenses of Library Services to the Town of Sequim.
Fire Chief Iris Marshall was reappointed for another year of service. The City received a matching grant to build a new Fire Hall. The final cost of the building was $14,955.
(from Sequim News July 2008)
Sequim History – 1950
In April, it was decided the Town would stay on Standard Time.
Council decided to assign house numbers. They agreed the Boy Scouts could sell the numbers to citizens for a nominal charge and attach them to the houses for an additional charge.
Iris Marshall was appointed Fire Chief for another year.
Local Improvement District 16 was formed to extend sewer services on Alder Street.
(from Sequim News Nov. 2008)
Sequim History – 1951
In February, a caucus was held where Chester K. Jenks, Cecil Dawley, H. M. Bennett and Gary Edwards were nominatedas candidates for the two Council positions to be filled at the March 13 election. Edwards replaced W. L. Merrill on the Council in June. Dawley was re-elected.
Communications about fluoridation of water to prevent tooth decay were received. It was hoped some Sequim dentists could attend a conference in Seattle to learn more about this.
The Library Board asked the Town to take over the business management of the library. Council voted to accept the responsibility. At that time, there was a children’s wading pool at the Library.
Metering the Town’s water system as a means of conserving the present water supply was discussed. It was decided to meter businesses at this time.
A consulting engineer gave a talk on sewer systems for small towns. The cost of the sewer system at that time would have been approximately $35,000.
Iris Marshall was again appointed Fire Chief.
Council agreed Social Security benefits would be provided for staff.
Crosswalks were painted at the school and caution signs installed to slow traffic in the area.
(from Sequim News Dec. 2008 / Feb. 2009)
Sequim History – 1952
James Scott was sworn in as a new Councilor. W. T. Alton was elected Mayor.
Iris Marshall was again appointed Fire Chief.
There were five City Committees: Finance, Streets & Alleys, Water & Sewer, Ordinance, Building, Library, and Garbage.
Social Security coverage was provided to municipal employees in January 1952.
Four meals for prisoners from Sophie’s Grill cost $1.60.
In 1952, the eastern City limit boundary was where Pioneer Park is now situated.
Homeowners in Eshom’s Addition protested commercial development near their residential neighborhood. Council voted to create and adopt a zoning ordinance.
Sequim History – 1953
Upon request of Fire Chief Iris Marshall, Council approved a pay raise for firemen who answered fire calls from $1 to $2 per call. Chief Marshall was re-appointed as Chief for another year.
Mayor Alton resigned on April 1, and Council appointed W. L. Merrill to take over as Mayor pro tem until his installation at the June 3 meeting.
The City’s three-year-old panel truck police car had 33,000 miles on it, and will need extensive repairs. Chief Klint recommends trading it for a heavier car more suitable for police work. The vehicle was traded for a Ford Sedan Mainline V-8 purchased from Samuelson Motor Co. in Port Angeles. (from Sequim News April 2009)
Sequim History – 1954
Water rates were $5.15 per month.
Iris Marshall was reappointed Fire Chief for another year. (from Sequim News May 2009)
Sequim History – 1955
Dial phones were installed in Sequim.
Prestonn Scheid was elected to the Council.
Iris Marshall was re-appointed as Fire Chief.
Curbs and sidewalks were installed along Washington with property owners paying their share of the expense.
Pinball machines were allowed to be installed in locations where minors could not have access; i.e., taverns.
Council authorized Boy Scout Explorer Post 490 to install paper boxes for their paper drive.
(from Sequim News August 2009)
Sequim History – 1956
The Garden Club asked for water to be piped to the old cemetery “east of town” so they can water their flowers. They indicated they are making the area a Memorial Park (it is now called “Pioneer Park”).
Ernest Pearson adn Larry Tozzer were sworn in as Councilmen for 4-year terms; O.E. Westling and Wm. Schade had tie votes in the election. The new Council voted and re-elected O.E. Westling for a 4-year term.
Iris Marshall was again appointed Fire Chief.
(from Sequim News September 2009)
Sequim History – 1957
Guy Holmes was appointed as Police Judge.
Iris Marshall was re-appointed Fire Chief.
Councilors receive pay of $3 per Council meeting attended.
A census was taken showing the population at 1,230, an increase of 100 from the prior year.
Sequim Bay State Park hoped to connect to the City’s water; it was determined to be too expensive to do so.
A bid for a new police car was accepted from Samuelson Motor Company: 1953 Ford, costing $2,285.67 less $505.67 trade, of $1,780.00.
Although a new State law was passed to allow taverns to remain open until 2:00 a.m., the City of Sequim did not repeal its Ordinance. Closing time remained at 1 a.m.
(from Sequim News October 2009)
Sequim History – 1958
Peter Black was sworn in as Mayor. Also sworn in were Councilors McKlurken and Daniels.
Iris Marshall was re-appointed Fire Chief.
The 36 street lights in town were changed from 150 watts to 300 watss.
Marjorie M. Forest took oath as the town attorney after Jerry Chamberlin resigned due to health issues.
(from Sequim News November 2009)
Sequim History – 1960
Councilmembers were paid $3 for each meeting attended.
Council resolved to refuse plat approval unless dedicated streets were 60′ wide, with alleys, sidewalk profiles, curbs, water mains and sewer lines installed.
Council discussed the need for a new City Hall.
Ben Gilbert, Jack Campbell and Carl Thurston were sworn in as new Councilmembers.
Iris Marshall was again appointed as Fire Chief.
A peddlers and solicitors ordinance was passed due to issues with door-to-door sales.
Council agreed to buy a 50-star flag.
(from Sequim News Jan. 2010)
Sequim History – 1961
Property owners with two homes on one lot began paying utilities for both homes.
Dr. Jay Sherman was sworn in as Justice of Peace.
Council agreed property owners would not be charged utilities on vacancies upon written notice to the City Clerk. There were no refunds for those who failed to contact the Clerk.
Omar Tripp was appointed to fill the vacancy on Council of Carl Thurston, who resigned due to the possible financial liability the State imposes on Councilors.
Iris Marshall was re-appointed Fire Marshall for the Sequim Volunteer Fire Department.
Council approved a Recreation District.
(from Sequim News Feb. 2010)
Sequim History – 1963
George Roats, Town Engineer, submitted a sketch and cost estimate for a sewer disposal plant. It was agreed to submit application for Federal funding for a portion of the plant.
Roats Engineering was surveying the Town of Sequim finding it was a bigger project than expected. A portion was done and the balance would be done by a month-to-month contract.
The subject of water meters on residential properties was discussed and decided that meter boxes would be installed on all future hookups.
Building permits were issued for new residences. The cost of the new residences was $10,000.
Iris Marshall was re-appointed Fire Chief.
Sequim Valley Garden Club was asking for financial assistance to maintain Memorial Park (now known as Pioneer Park). The Town Attorney advised financial support could only be given if the Town leased the property, which the Club was not willing to do at this time.
(from Sequim News April 2010)
Sequim History – 1964
Planned street improvements were approved from the Sequim Avenue stoplight south to Bell, east on Bell to lst Street (now Second Avenue), and north to Washington. The streets were designated as arterials.
The City Attorney was instructed to draw up an agreement to purchase 3-1/2 acres from Fred Schmuck for the sewerage disposal system. THe transaction was finalized in March.
Robert Matriotti and Lyn Dunlap requestted City water and sewer for 30 acres adjoining the Knapman Addition. The City agreed that extensions would be put in at property-owner’s expense to City specifications.
A petition by 50 people protesting the location of an airstrip partially within the town limits was read. It was mentioned the town was not able to approve or disapprove the airstrip and this would be forwarded to the FAA.
The Matriotti/Dunlap addition annexation was approved.
Iris Marshall was re-appointed Fire Chief
A resolution was passed that prior to the acceptance of plats, the plator must grade and gravel streets and install water and sewer lines to the City’s standards.
(from Sequim News June 2010)
Sequim History – 1965
Plans and specifications for the proposed sewerage treatment plant were approved by Council. A 30% government grant was received to help pay for the plant.
Council passed an ordinance adopting the building provisions of the Uniform Building Code.
The State Traffic Code was adopted by Council.
George Roats, the Town Engineer, was appointed the town’s building inspector.
Several plats were approved and accepted by the Town, including the Matriotti-Dunlap Second Addition; Sprague’s Second Addition (street names accepted were Willow and Oak); and the Kirner Addition plat.
The PUD replaced the old street lights with small vapor lights at the cost of $3,000.
Pacific Northwest Bell Telephone was approved to bury phone lines in the new Knapman Addition and Matriotti-Dunlap Second Addition.
Iris Marshall was reappointed Fire Chief.
A resolution was adopted creating the position of Finance Offficer per state la.
The City Employees Retirement Program was adopted and implemented by the Town for its 3 full-time employees.
(from Sequim News July 2010)
Sequim History – 1966
Bids were awarded to both KK Larsen and Select Contractors, each to build portions of the sewerage treatment plant.
The Chamber was given permission to place a trailer for the purpose of giving information to tourists between Cal’s Drive and the Shell Oil Company. Hmmm – anyone remember that location?
A new police car was purchased from Johnny’s Auto Service for $2,933.
The telephone company plans were approved to lay underground lines in portions of the City.
Iris Marshall was re-appointed Fire Chief.
Police Chief Klint agreed to check out the cost of a walkie-talkie for the night patrolman.
(from Sequim News August 2010)
Sequim History – 1967
A franchise agreement was signed with Port Angeles Telecable for cable services in Sequim.
A new fire truck was purchased from American LaFrance Company.
The new treatment plant was in full operation.
It was suggested the Town create a Comprehensive Plan.
(from Sequim News Sept. 2010)
Sequim History – 1969
Several areas were annexed into Town, including Sequim Lumber Company area; Grandmother’s Club property; and Old Dominion Corporation property.
Pacific Northwest Bell Telephone Company requested permission to bury cable in certain areas of Town.
Creighton Daniels was appointed Fire Chief.
Don Salonen graduated from Law Enforcement School.
The final plat of Mountain View Addition #3 was accepted and approved by City Council.
The Town Attorney attended the Association of Washington Cities Convention. One Council asked if the “hippie problem” had been addressed at the event. Attorney Platt said it had not and suggested it might be a local problem.
Stop signs were put at 2nd and Cedar due to the “accident prone corner” caused by the location of the Post Office.
The position of Town Engineer was eliminated by City Council.
(from Sequim News Jan. 2011)
Sequim History – 1970
The Planning Commission was created consisting of six members with a six-year term. The first members were Joy McCarter, Bill Alton, Dave Vogelsong, Dr. Ray Parker, Art Johnson, Fred Beale and Fred Jones, ex officio.
Council studied the benefits of latecomers agreements.
Developers of an area north of town called Sunland approached Council about partnering with them for sewer service. The request was denied.
A formal Police Department was created as required by teh Law Enforcement and Firefighters Retirement System. Donald Salonen was Chief of Police.
Creighton Daniels was appointed Fire Chief.
Curfew hours, the same enforced by Port Angeles and the County, were adopted. A curfew whistle was blown at 9 p.m. each night.
(from Sequim News Feb. 2011)
Sequim History – 1971
The Crest Motel was demolished in Feb. 1971.
The Town invested $20,000 each at three banks at an interest rate of 6%.
Don Smith was hired as a police deputy under Chief Salonen.
Council asked Chief Salonen to enforce the 2-hour downtown parking law.
Council granted the request of Pacific Northwest Bell to bury cables within the town limits.
LID #13 for the Govan Addition in the amount of $34,000 was approved by Council.
Seal Street had been made a one-way earlier in the year; it was returned to a two-way street.
Brown, Prairie, Hemlock and Fir were designated as arterial streets.
Council provided a letter supporting the creation of a Senior Citizen Center.
John Kirner donated two lots for a park located at 4th and Pine (now known as Kirner Park).
Council agreed to have two Council meetings per month.
(from Sequim News March 2011)
Sequim History – 1972
Carl Klint was the new mayor.
Initial discussions started for the construction of the bypass.
The City purchased the Standard Oil property on South Sequim Avenue for the utility department.
A designer was hired to create plans for a new City Hall.
Mayor Klint released Police Chief Don Salonen of his duties; he was subsequently reinstated.
The noon whistle was replaced with chimes from the Presbyterian Church.
Councilor Kettel resigned because he moved outside the City limits. Fred Jones was appointed to fill the vacancy. Councilor Gilbert resigned due to lack of communication, individualism and not enough time to devote to the job. Herbect Heck was appointed to fill this vacancy.
(from Sequim News May 2011)
Sequim History – 1973
The population of Sequim from the recent census was 2,287.
Sherwood Village, a 325 planned unit condominium development outside the city limits, was presented to Council for approval by the County Planning Department.
A new City Hall was built. The estimated cost was $110,000.
Requets for annexation were approved for the Red Ranch Inn; Sunbelt Nursing Home; Cramer and Graham; Sherwood Properties; Espy and Dawley; Bills and Bramwell; Edgington; Remple; Reed and Old Dominion Corporation.
People’s Bank donated a drive-thru window for City Hall.
A building height ordinance was adopted allowing two stories and 30 feet heights.
(from Sequim News June 2011)
Sequim History – 1974
Sequim became a “Third Class City.” Mayor Henry T. “Tom” Pruett and Councilors Stephen K. Olts, Herbert W. Hecht, Carl “Mike” Holmberg, Guy Hecker, Thomas A. Boyd, and Renee Hansey were sworn in. Mr. Keller was absent. He was sworn in at the next meeting.
The garbage pickup rate was amended to charge $1.75 per month for one can and .75 for each additional can.
John Kirner donated two lots of land located at Fourth and Pine for a park; it is now known as John Kirner Park.
A committee was formed to plan a celebration for the “Bi-Centennial.” Sequim was designated by the state as a “Bi-Centennial Communiyt.” A Bi-Centennial picnic was held in Pioneer Park.
Council approved annexation of the area known as “Blakes Ponds.” The Parks Committee developed a plan for creating a park in that area.
(from Sequim News July 2011)
Sequim History – 1975
Council adopted the State Uniform Building Codes
The Sequim Dungeness Kiwanis Club provided a sign for John Kirner Park located at Third adn Pine.
The Blake’s Pond area purchased for a park was formally named “Carrie Blake Park.”
The Lion’s Club approached Council requesting they be allowed to develop Carried Blake Park.
A carving of the Sequim City Logo was presented by artist, Eli Prkut.
Plans were under way by the U.S. Post Office to build at its new location on Sunnyside.
Councilor Keller resigned and was replaced by Jeanne Motan.
In the November election Oliver Hamilton was elected Mayor and Robert Butrick, Stan Foster, Renee Hansey, Mike Holmberg, Jeanne Motan and Dale Turton were elected Councilors.
(from Sequim News August 2011)
Sequim History – 1976
Renee Hansey resigned from City County and was replaced by John Haller.
There was an autograph party for the book “Dungeness, Lure of the River” in July.
The Police Department was setting up the Neighborhood Watch program for Sequim.
The City was working with the railroad to repair the railroad crossings.
Guy Cole, Parks and Advisory Board chair, report the Lion Club had completed work at Blake’s Park including trails and playground equipment.
The wastewater treatment plant was studied and found to need many upgrades in the near future.
(from Sequim News December 2011)
Sequim History – 1977
Oliver Hamilton was Mayor in 1977.
The Museum had a 30-day fundraising drive to raise money to buy the old post office building for $60,000. (This is now the museum’s current location.)
It was decided to renumber the avenues west of Sequim Avenue. 1st Avenue was eliminated and is now 2nd Avenue; the old 2nd Avenue is now 3rd Avenue., etc.
Council approved a stop light at 5th and Washington.
Council approved the Lion’s Club proposal to build what is now know as Guy Cole Mini Convention Center.
Council approved the Sheriff’s Dept. to occupy space in our Policy Department.
A portion of Blake’s Park was annexed into the city.
(from Sequim News January 2012)
Port Angeles Telecable raised its rates from $5.50 to $6.50 per month.
Council changed the numbering of the avenues west of Sequim Avenue, eliminating 1st Avenue.
Councilors Buttrick and Holmberg resigned as Councilors at the same meeting. No mention was made as to why. New councilors voted into office in November were Fred Defrang and Walter Grant.
Guy Cole, Chairman of the Parks Board, recommended acceptance of the Lion’s Club’s offer to build a community center in “Blake’s Park” that would be gifted to the City. Details needed to be worked out.
The WA Dept. of Transportation indicated they were doing a study concerning a bypass for Hwy 101.
All of Blake’s Park was not in the city imits, so the balance was annexed.
(from Sequim News March 2012)
Sequim History – 1978
James Dinan, Dale Turton and Alfred McCluken were sworn in as councilmembers. There was a moratorium on annexations in this year.
John Kirner was appointed to fill a Council vacancy in February.
There was consideration as to whether to allow Bell Hill to apply for annexation into the Town.
The Town agreed to hook up water and sewer lines for the school’s concession stand so long as the school paid the permitfees.
Dale Kruse, a volunteer firefighter, was killed August 30, 1978,while responding to a fire. Resolution 98 was created in honor of Mr. Kruse and was given to his wife. Council approved placing a monument by the flag pole at City Hall (where it still exists today).
(from Sequim News May 2012)