All About Anacortes, Washington
- by Jodie Vinson
Anacortes lies in the Pacific Ocean on Fidalgo Island, with the San Juan Islands and the Puget Sound to the North and Swinomish Channel on the East. Because it sits in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, it remains dryer than the typical Northwest destinations, so that residents and visitors enjoy a pleasant, mild climate year round. Anacortes lies at midpoint between Seattle and Vancouver, offering an immediate natural setting that rivals both these cities.
It was settled in 1877 and given the name Anacortes, an amalgamation of the name Anna Curtis Bowman, wife of Amos Bowman, who founded the town. The town hoped to be the terminus of the transcontinental railroad, but instead turned to lumber and fishing industries as the foundations of its commerce. Two large oil refineries began contributing to the town's economy in the 1950's. Today shipbuilding and tourism also contribute as major industries in Anacortes, as its extensive marinas welcome visitors and provide safe harbor for those wishing to explore the nearby San Juan Islands.
Community Links:
Anacortes Chamber of Commerce
City of Anacortes
Anacortes.net Community Directory
Port of Anacortes
Anacortes Now Community Blog
Anacortes Farmers Market
Anacortes Arts Festival
Anacortes Yacht Club
Fiodelgo Yacht Club
Anacortes Marine Trades Association
Anacortes Community Theatre
Island Cam Live Camera Web Site for the San Juan Islands
