Lucile Saunders McDonald’s Coast Country: A History of Southwest Washington chronicles the maritime and pioneer history of the rugged, windswept coastline stretching north of the Columbia River's treacherous mouth. The narrative meticulously maps the challenging topography of this distinct Pacific environment, focusing on the shallow, tidal expanses of Willapa Bay, the dense temperate rainforests surrounding Grays Harbor, and the shifting sands of the Long Beach Peninsula. By detailing the booming nineteenth-century oyster industry that thrived within these sheltered estuarine mudflats, alongside perilous coastal shipping operations and early timber harvesting, the book illustrates how early settlers exploited the region's rich aquatic and arboreal resources despite severe navigational hazards. Ultimately, the text captures the formidable geographical realities of southwestern Washington, highlighting how its unique marine inlets and punishing oceanic weather dictated the economic survival of its most isolated pioneer communities.

History, Pacific County (Wash.) History, Pacific Ocean Willapa Bay, Washington (State) Pacific County, Willapa Bay (Wash.) History, Willapa, Baie de (Wash.) Histoire

The Chinook Indians The discoverers The mystery ships of Mr. Teast An Hawaiian grave on an alien coast Hold that line! : [the Oregon question] The pioneers Scarborough Hill The imaginary city : [Elijah White's Pacific City] Heap big white chief : [Washington Hall] Angry cook on an oyster bed County government, informal style [Patrick J.] McGowan's fishery Lighthouse and fort Stage to Oysterville The town that oysters built Murder and a kidnapped court house The clamshell railroad Unity becomes Little Finland Lodgings to let Life saving and beachcombing Salvage and "sea gulls" The salmon wars Cranberries Food, mostly from the sea Diamond city, where wild geese fly The modern scene

Includes index

Includes index