Stanwood, WA

Stanwood, Washington, is a city located in Snohomish County. Its history can be traced back to the mid-19th century when the first white settlers arrived in the area.

Before the arrival of settlers, the Coast Salish Native American tribes, primarily the Lower Skagit and the Stillaguamish, inhabited the region. They were successful fishermen, hunters, and gatherers, utilizing the abundant natural resources in the area.

In 1850, brothers D.O. and L.B. Pearson became the first white settlers in what is now Stanwood. They established a homestead and built a cabin near the current location of downtown Stanwood. Over the next few decades, more settlers arrived, attracted by the rich farmland and the potential for timber resources.

In 1870, Robert Fulton "Fult" Pearson, the brother of the original Pearson settlers, platted the town that would become Stanwood. He named it after his wife, Clara Stanwood. The town developed as a bustling community, centered around farming, logging, and the nearby Stillaguamish River.

Stanwood experienced significant growth during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks to the arrival of the Seattle and International Railway in 1910. The railway connected Stanwood with Seattle and provided an efficient transportation option for people and goods.

The town continued to flourish throughout the early 20th century. It served as a regional hub for agriculture, with dairy farming becoming a prominent industry. The fertile soil and mild climate in the area encouraged the growth of crops such as berries, vegetables, and flowers.

During World War II, Stanwood played a significant role in supporting the war effort. Many young men from the town enlisted, and local industries shifted their focus to providing materials for the military. The war brought economic prosperity to the area, and after the war, Stanwood continued to grow and develop.

Incorporated as a city in 1903, Stanwood steadily expanded both in population and infrastructure. Today, it is a thriving community with a population of around 7,500 people. It boasts a charming downtown area with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants that preserve the city's rich heritage.

Stanwood's proximity to the Puget Sound and beautiful natural surroundings make it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city has also become a popular tourist spot, drawing visitors to its annual events such as the Port Susan Snow Goose & Birding Festival and the Stanwood-Camano Community Fair.

Overall, Stanwood's history reflects its journey from a small settlement to a vibrant city shaped by agriculture, logging, and a commitment to community growth and development.

Camano Island State Park

This state park offers beautiful views of the Puget Sound and has hiking trails, camping sites, and a beach area for swimming and relaxation.

Stanwood Camano Community Fair

This annual fair features carnival rides, live entertainment, food vendors, agricultural exhibits, and various competitions. It's a fun event for the whole family.

Port Susan Farmers Market

Held on Fridays during the summer months, this farmers market offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music. It's a great place to support local businesses and enjoy the community atmosphere.

Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center

This historic building serves as a cultural center and museum, showcasing the history of Stanwood and the surrounding area. It's a great place to learn about the local heritage.

Heritage Park

This park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. It also hosts events such as outdoor concerts and festivals throughout the year.

Stanwood-Camano Arts Guild Gallery

This art gallery showcases the works of local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry. It's a great place to appreciate and support the local art scene.

Uff Da Shop

This Scandinavian-themed gift shop offers a variety of Nordic-inspired items, including traditional crafts, clothing, and food. It's a unique place to find souvenirs or Scandinavian treats.

Camano Island Coffee Roasters

This coffee roastery and café offers organic, fair-trade coffee that is roasted on-site. Visitors can learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Iverson Spit Preserve

This nature preserve on Camano Island offers hiking trails, bird-watching opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding wetlands. It's a peaceful location for nature enthusiasts.

Stanwood House Concerts

These intimate music concerts feature a variety of genres, including folk, jazz, and blues. Held in a private home, it gives visitors the chance to experience live music in a cozy setting.

Stanwood, WA has a marine west coast climate, also known as a temperate oceanic climate. Summers are mild to warm, and winters are cool to mild. Here are some detailed characteristics of the climate in Stanwood:

Temperatures

The average temperature in the warmest month, July, is around 64°F (18°C), while the average temperature in the coldest month, January, is around 41°F (5°C). High temperatures in the summer can reach the mid-70s°F (around 24-26°C), and winter lows can drop to the mid-30s°F (around 1-3°C).

Precipitation

Stanwood experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year. The wettest months are typically November through February, with average precipitation ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 inches (89 to 114 mm) per month. Snowfall is somewhat rare, with an average of less than 6 inches (15 cm) annually.

Cloud cover

The area experiences a fair amount of cloud cover, particularly during the rainy season. Overcast days are quite common but are not exclusive to any particular season.

Wind

Stanwood is influenced by the marine environment, which means winds can be slightly stronger near the coast. Average wind speeds range from 5 to 10 mph (8 to 16 km/h), although occasionally, gusts can reach higher speeds, especially during winter storms.

Growing season

Although the region has a mild climate, there is a distinct growing season. The frost-free period typically begins in mid-April and lasts until late October. This longer growing season allows for a variety of crops and plants to thrive.

Overall, the climate of Stanwood, WA is generally mild and characterized by cool summers and mild winters, with a moderate amount of rainfall spread throughout the year.

Stanwood, WA is a small town located in Snohomish County, Washington. It is situated along the coastline of Port Susan and is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including lakes, forests, and farmland. While it may be a small town, Stanwood offers a variety of unique neighborhoods with distinct characteristics. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Stanwood:

Historic Downtown

This is the heart of Stanwood and features charming buildings dating back to the early 1900s. It is a walkable area with boutique shops, restaurants, and local businesses. The historic district is home to the Stanwood Area Historical Society's Pioneer Village, which showcases the town's rich past.

Cedarhome

Located on the northern outskirts of Stanwood, Cedarhome is a neighborhood known for its spacious properties and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Many homes here have large lots, providing residents with a rural and peaceful atmosphere.

Stanwood East

This neighborhood is situated on the eastern side of town and offers a mix of residential areas and commercial developments. It is known for its well-established schools, including Stanwood High School, and its proximity to the nearby Swedish Hospital.

Kayak Point

Located southwest of Stanwood, the Kayak Point neighborhood is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities. It is home to Kayak Point County Park, where residents can enjoy camping, picnicking, hiking, and boating. The area also features waterfront properties and is known for its scenic beauty.

Warm Beach

Situated on the western coast of Port Susan, Warm Beach is known for its beachfront properties and stunning views of the water. It is a popular tourist destination and is home to the Warm Beach Camp and Conference Center, which offers various activities and events year-round.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Stanwood, each with its own unique characteristics. Whether you prefer a historic downtown setting, a rural atmosphere, or a waterfront lifestyle, Stanwood provides a range of options for residents to choose from.