Arlington, WA

County: Snohomish

History

Arlington, Washington

Arlington is a city located in Snohomish County, Washington, in the United States. It is situated in the western part of the state, about 45 miles north of Seattle. The history of Arlington dates back to the early 19th century when it was inhabited by the indigenous Snohomish people.

In the late 1850s, European settlers began to arrive in the area. The first recorded European-American settlers were George E. and Maria (Greatorex) Trafton, who arrived in 1876 and established a homestead on the south side of the Stillaguamish River. The area was initially known as Haller City, named after Granville O. Haller, a pioneer and Indian fighter who served in the Washington Territory militia.

In 1890, the townsite of Arlington was platted and named after Arlington, Virginia, in honor of Civil War general Robert E. Lee's hometown. The town grew rapidly over the years, attracting many settlers to its beautiful surroundings and fertile farmland.

A significant event in Arlington's history occurred in 1903 when the Great Northern Railway completed a line through the town, connecting it to neighboring communities and providing a boost to the local economy. The railroad brought increased trade, tourism, and opportunities for growth.

In 1917, Arlington became an incorporated city. Throughout the 20th century, Arlington continued to develop as a center for agriculture, logging, and trade in the region.

Tragedy struck Arlington on March 22, 2014, when a devastating landslide occurred in the nearby community of Oso, claiming the lives of 43 people. The event had a profound impact on the town, as many residents were affected by the disaster and rescue and recovery efforts took place in Arlington.

Today, Arlington is a thriving city with a population of around 20,000 residents. It is known for its charming small-town atmosphere, numerous parks and recreation areas, and its annual Strawberry Festival, which has been a tradition since 1932. The festival celebrates the region's rich agricultural history and attracts visitors from all over the state.

As the city continues to grow, it strives to maintain its historical character while embracing modern development and economic opportunities. Arlington's rich history is an important part of its identity and is celebrated by both residents and visitors alike.

Attractions

Arlington Fly-In

Arlington Fly-In

This annual event celebrates aviation with air shows, aircraft displays, and activities for all ages.

Jordan Bridge

A historic pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Stillaguamish River, offering beautiful views and access to walking trails.

Haller Park

This community park features walking trails, sports fields, picnic areas, and a playground.

Arlington Historical Museum

Learn about the history of Arlington and the surrounding area through exhibits and artifacts.

Lavender Hills Farm

Experience the calming fragrance of lavender fields, shop for lavender products, and enjoy scenic views.

Portage Creek Wildlife Reserve

Explore nature trails and observe wildlife in this peaceful reserve.

Gleneagle Golf Course

Play a round of golf on this scenic course surrounded by rolling hills.

Outback Kangaroo Farm

Get up close and personal with kangaroos, wallabies, and other exotic animals at this unique farm.

Arlington Valley Roadside Park

A charming roadside park with picnic tables, gazebos, and a small pond.

Twin Rivers Brewing Company

Enjoy locally brewed craft beers at this popular brewery and pub.

Climate

Arlington, WA has a climate that is classified as temperate. The city experiences warm summers and cold winters. Here are some key characteristics of the climate in Arlington:

Summers

Summers in Arlington are typically warm and mostly dry. High temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius). July and August are the warmest months, with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures beyond 90°F (32°C). The city receives relatively low rainfall during summer.

Winters

Winters in Arlington are cold and wet. Average temperatures range from the mid-30s to mid-40s°F (1-7°C). December and January are the coldest months, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing. The region receives a fair amount of rainfall throughout winter, and snowfall is not uncommon but generally light.

Precipitation

Arlington experiences a moderate amount of annual precipitation. The wettest months are typically November through January, with rainfall averaging around 3-5 inches (7-12 cm) per month. Summers are relatively drier, with average rainfall of 1-2 inches (3-5 cm) per month.

Sunshine

Arlington gets an average of around 150 sunny days annually, which is relatively low compared to other areas of the United States. Cloudy days are more common, particularly during the wetter months.

Wind

Arlington can experience moderate winds throughout the year, especially during winter storms.

Overall, Arlington, WA has a moderate and comfortable climate. The warm, dry summers offer pleasant outdoor activities, while the cold, wet winters provide opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Neighborhoods

Arlington, WA is a small city located in Snohomish County, Washington. While it is relatively small, it does have a few distinct neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Arlington:

Downtown Arlington

This is the heart of the city, featuring a charming historic district with small shops, restaurants, and local businesses. The downtown area often holds community events and festivals, making it a lively and vibrant neighborhood.

Smokey Point

Located in the southern part of the city, Smokey Point is a commercial and residential area. It is known for its shopping centers, which include major retail stores and restaurants. Smokey Point also has a mix of apartments, townhomes, and single-family houses.

Gleneagle

Situated to the east of downtown Arlington, Gleneagle is a residential neighborhood known for its golf course and spacious homes. It offers a suburban feel with tree-lined streets and well-maintained properties. The community also has parks and walking trails to enjoy.

Bryant

Located to the east of downtown, Bryant is a more rural neighborhood with larger properties and a mix of agricultural land. It is known for its beautiful countryside views, farmhouses, and horse properties. Bryant offers a quieter and more secluded living experience.

Arlington Heights

Positioned on the northern outskirts of Arlington, Arlington Heights offers a mix of rural living and larger homes on expansive properties. The neighborhood provides picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

These neighborhoods all contribute to the diverse character of Arlington, offering options for different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you prefer a vibrant downtown area, suburban living, or a more rural setting, Arlington has something to offer.

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