This series highlights locations in Skagit County. These communities were formed in the early 1870's remaining up until the 1920's. Many of the names still appear on maps. A few have buildings remaining in use today. These communities and many others can be found on https:/www.skagitcounty.net/Maps/iMap/?mapjs=hist
Sterling grew out of anticipation of the opening of the Skagit River by the removal of two massive log jams down river.
Jesse B. Ball began logging the rich stands of timber at the "top of the big S curve" in 1878. At this point just below Sedro, He set up Ball's Landing. He could log close to the river. Following close behind the loggers were stump farmers.
Ball opened a trading post which became known as Sterling. In the 1880s Sterling had logging camps, a hotel, a church, a school, and saloons. Sterling was the earliest upriver town in Skagit County. It stood at a bend in the river, subject to erosion.
The railroad passed it by a mile to the north and east. Sedro and Woolley which were on the rail lines flourished, but after 1890 Sterling decayed. When the local timber was gone it vanished, partly absorbed by its growing neighbors.
The Northwest edge of the Northern S curve of the River was about 400 feet east of this location immediately behind where the houses on Sterling RD. are located.
Information was provided by the Skagit County Historical Museum in La Conner and from the Skagit River Journal. (http://skagitriverjournal.com)
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Congratulations Oma & Opa G on the FTF