Lynden, WA
County: Whatcom
History
Lynden is a city located in Whatcom County, Washington, United States. It was founded in 1871 by Phoebe Goodell Judson, making it one of the oldest communities in the state. The area was initially settled by pioneers looking for fertile farmland.
Phoebe Judson, along with her husband Holden Judson, moved to the area with the hopes of establishing a religious utopia. They named the settlement after a town in their favorite poem, "Hymn to the Lynden Tree." The Judsons convinced other families to settle in the area, and Lynden began to grow.
In the early days, Lynden's economy was primarily based on agriculture, with dairy farming and berry production being the main industries. The city quickly became known as the "Poultry Capital of the World" due to its high volume of poultry and egg production.
The advent of the railroad in the late 1800s greatly contributed to the growth and development of Lynden. It provided a means to transport goods, and the town became a commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural communities.
Lynden was officially incorporated as a city in 1891. Over the years, it has experienced steady growth and development, with a focus on maintaining its small-town charm and agricultural heritage. Today, Lynden is a thriving community with a population of around 15,000 people.
The city is known for its Dutch influence, as many of the early settlers were of Dutch descent. This is evident in the architecture, street names, and the annual Northwest Washington Fair, which features a large Dutch influence.
Lynden also boasts several historical landmarks, including the Jansen Art Center, the Waples Boardinghouse, and the Lynden Pioneer Museum. These sites provide a glimpse into the city's rich history and serve as reminders of its pioneer roots.
In recent years, Lynden has embraced its agricultural heritage by promoting local farming and hosting events such as the Lynden Farmers Market and the Raspberry Festival. These events celebrate the city's agricultural roots and help to foster a sense of community.
Overall, Lynden's history is one of perseverance, agricultural success, and a strong sense of community. It has grown from a small settlement to a thriving city while retaining its charming small-town atmosphere.
Attractions
Lynden Pioneer Museum
Explore the rich history of Lynden and the surrounding area through captivating exhibits and artifacts.
Bellewood Farms
Enjoy picking fresh apples, exploring the farm and beautiful gardens, and indulging in delicious apple cider and homemade pies.
Lynden City Park
Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the park, which includes a playground, picnic areas, and a pond with ducks and turtles.
Jansen Art Center
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Lynden by visiting this center, which features rotating art exhibits, a pottery studio, and live performances.
Raspberry Ridge Golf Course
Tee off at this picturesque golf course, surrounded by lush greenery and offering stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.
Bender Fields
Watch or participate in various sporting events like soccer, softball, and baseball at this well-maintained sports complex.
Lynden Dutch Bakery
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to this local bakery, known for its delicious Dutch treats like stroopwafels and fresh-baked bread.
Lynden Farmers Market
Browse and purchase fresh local produce, crafts, and artisanal products at this vibrant market held every Saturday during the summer.
Lynden Skateway
Lace up your skates and enjoy a fun-filled day of roller skating at this beloved local establishment.
Lynden Fairgrounds
Attend the annual Northwest Washington Fair, featuring carnival rides, farm animals, live music, and a wide range of exhibits and competitions.
Climate
Lynden, Washington has a cool-temperate climate, characterized by mild and wet winters, and warm and dry summers. The region experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.
Winter in Lynden is relatively mild with average temperatures ranging from 36°F (2°C) to 45°F (7°C) during the day, and dropping to 30°F (-1°C) to 35°F (2°C) at night. Occasional snowfall occurs, but it is generally light and does not accumulate for long periods. Precipitation levels are higher in the winter, with frequent rainfall.
Spring in Lynden sees a gradual increase in temperatures, with average daytime highs ranging from 52°F (11°C) to 64°F (18°C) and nighttime lows ranging from 38°F (3°C) to 45°F (7°C). Rainfall decreases compared to winter, but showers are still common. Spring is often considered one of the rainiest seasons in Lynden.
Summer is the warmest season in Lynden, with average temperatures reaching 70°F (21°C) to 78°F (26°C) during the day, and cooling down to 51°F (11°C) to 56°F (13°C) at night. This season experiences less rainfall compared to the rest of the year, making it the driest time in Lynden. It is also the sunniest season, with clear skies and abundant sunshine.
Autumn in Lynden is marked by a gradual decrease in temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 56°F (13°C) to 64°F (18°C), and nighttime lows ranging from 43°F (6°C) to 50°F (10°C). This season experiences increased rainfall as the weather transitions to winter.
Overall, Lynden has a mild climate, with relatively moderate temperatures throughout the year. The annual average precipitation in Lynden is around 37 inches (940 mm), distributed fairly evenly throughout the seasons.
Neighborhoods
Lynden, Washington is a small city located in Whatcom County, known for its Dutch heritage and charming small-town atmosphere. While Lynden as a whole is a tight-knit community, there are a few distinct neighborhoods that offer different experiences and characteristics. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Lynden:
Downtown Lynden
The heart of the city, downtown Lynden is a vibrant area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and community events. Dutch-inspired architecture adds to the charm of this district, and it serves as a hub for local businesses.
Homestead
Located to the east of downtown Lynden, the Homestead neighborhood is characterized by tree-lined streets and a mix of residential and commercial properties. It features several parks and is conveniently close to schools.
Northwood
Situated on the northern outskirts of Lynden, the Northwood neighborhood is known for its spacious homes and large lots. Many properties enjoy views of the surrounding countryside and Mount Baker.
Meadowview
Located south of downtown, Meadowview is a newer residential neighborhood that offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. It features paved walking paths, green spaces, and a sense of community.
Berthusen Park
Although not technically a neighborhood, Berthusen Park deserves a mention for its recreational opportunities. This park is located northeast of downtown and offers picturesque picnic spots, hiking trails, playgrounds, and a historic covered bridge.
Overall, whether you prefer the quaintness of downtown, the suburban feel of the Homestead or Northwood areas, or the newer and family-friendly Meadowview, Lynden has a neighborhood to suit different lifestyles and preferences.