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
With the development of the Bennett coal mines at Cokedale six miles from Sedro Woolley, Harrison Clothier laid out a town on the bank of the Skagit closest to the mines and called it Bessemer, apparently dreaming of it as a center for steel making. Nothing happened there, however
James Elliot opened a hotel which appears to have a saloon in this picture with an entrance for the ladies. The real estate office at the end of the building was a hopeful sign that the area would grow.
Much of this information was provided by the Skagit County Historical Museum in La Conner.