Images of Port Townsend (WA)

With its deep port and proximity to abundant timber, Port Townsend in the nineteenth century was well on its way to becoming the commercial center of Washington State, but the railroads balked. Seattle eventually prevailed. Now, Port Townsend hinges much of its fortune on tourism and boat-building. The preservation of Victorian homes built during the boom years led to the establishment of the Port Townsend Historic District and placement on the National Register of Historic Places. It is now home to many retirees and destination of tourists (including my wife and me) who admire its quaint charms, good restaurants, recreational opportunities and local events, including the jazz festival in July and film festival in September. Port Townsend boasts a stunning setting by Admiralty Inlet and spectacular backdrop of the Olympic Mountains to the east, which buffer rainfall from the Pacific Ocean.

Admiralty Inlet

Abandoned artillery battery (Fort Worden State Park)

Carved double doors

Christmas anemone

Driftwood

Dry-docked boat next to Adams Street Park

Hastings Building

Hermit crab

Giant barnacles and shield limpets

Gazebo (Chetzemoka Park)

Low tide at Chetzemoka Park beach

N. D. Hill Building

Pier off Northwest Maritime Center

Pineapple weed

Point Wilson Lighthouse (Fort Worden State Park)

Purple sea urchin

Sea cucumber

Yellow bush lupine