Learn About Ilwaco, Washington

Ilwaco Overview

City History

• Ilwaco is a small city located in Pacific County, Washington. It was founded in the late 19th century as a fishing and lumber community.
• The city's name comes from a Native American word meaning "meeting place" or "talking place."
• Ilwaco's economy has historically been driven by fishing and timber industries, but in recent years it has also become a popular tourist destination.

Interesting Facts

• Ilwaco is home to the Cape Disappointment State Park, which features two lighthouses and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
• The city hosts an annual Crab Pot Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, where a tree made of crab pots is decorated and lit up for the holiday season.
• Ilwaco is known for its fresh seafood, including Dungeness crab, razor clams, and salmon.

Interesting People

• One notable resident of Ilwaco is artist Sidney Laurence, known for his paintings of the Alaskan wilderness.
• Another famous figure from Ilwaco is author Robert Michael Pyle, who has written extensively about the natural history of the Pacific Northwest.
• Local fisherman and seafood industry workers are also an important part of the community in Ilwaco.

Top Attractions in Ilwaco

• Cape Disappointment State Park
• Ilwaco Heritage Museum
• Ilwaco Fishermen's Memorial
• Black Lake Beach
• North Head Lighthouse

Top Attractions Nearby

• Long Beach Boardwalk
• Beards Hollow Overlook
• North Head Trail
• Fort Columbia State Park
• Willapa National Wildlife Refuge

Population History

• Ilwaco had a population of around 936 people as of the 2010 census.
• The city's population has remained relatively stable over the years, with a slight increase in recent decades due to tourism.

Geography

• Ilwaco is located on the southern tip of the Long Beach Peninsula, near the mouth of the Columbia River.
• The city is surrounded by water on three sides, with the Pacific Ocean to the west, Baker Bay to the south, and the Columbia River to the north.

Economy

• Ilwaco's economy is primarily driven by tourism, with fishing and seafood processing also playing a significant role.
• The city is home to several seafood processing plants and a thriving charter fishing industry.
• Ilwaco's proximity to Cape Disappointment State Park and other natural attractions has made it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Culture

• Ilwaco has a rich maritime history, with many local traditions and festivals celebrating the fishing industry.
• The city is home to several art galleries and studios, showcasing the work of local artists inspired by the natural beauty of the area.
• Ilwaco's close-knit community values environmental conservation and sustainable practices, with many residents actively involved in protecting the region's natural resources.

Notable Landmarks

• Cape Disappointment State Park
• North Head Lighthouse
• Ilwaco Heritage Museum
• Black Lake Beach
• Ilwaco Fishermen's Memorial

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