Located in the heart of Central Washington, Ellensburg, WA, and Cle Elum, WA, are two towns that tell a story of resilience, growth, and community spirit. These towns, located just miles apart in Kittitas County, have played pivotal roles in the region’s history. From their early days as hubs for Indigenous peoples to their development as agriculture, coal mining, and trade centers, both towns have unique legacies that continue to shape their identities today.
Walking through the streets of these towns is like stepping back in time. The historic architecture of Ellensburg and the rugged charm of Cle Elum offer glimpses into a past defined by hard work and determination. Let’s look at the events and milestones that have shaped these two communities into what they are today.
Indigenous Roots: The First Inhabitants
Long before settlers arrived in Central Washington, the Kittitas band of the Yakama Nation called this region home. Both Ellensburg and Cle Elum were part of their ancestral lands. The Yakama people thrived by fishing salmon from the Yakima and Cle Elum Rivers, hunting game, and gathering roots and berries from the surrounding plains and forests.
The arrival of settlers in the mid-19th century marked a turning point for the Yakama people. Treaties signed in 1855 forced them to cede much of their land and relocate to reservations in exchange for fishing rights. Despite these challenges, the Yakama Nation’s cultural influence remains evident in place names like Cle Elum (derived from “Tie-el-Luim,” meaning “swift water”) and in the traditions that continue to enrich the region.
The Founding of Ellensburg, WA
The story of Ellensburg begins with John Shoudy, who arrived in the Kittitas Valley in 1871. Purchasing a small trading post called “Robber’s Roost,” Shoudy renamed the settlement Ellensburgh after his wife Ellen. The town quickly grew as settlers were drawn to its fertile land and strategic location along cattle trails leading to Puget Sound.
By 1883, Ellensburg was officially incorporated and had established itself as a regional hub for agriculture and trade. Wheat farming became a cornerstone of the local economy, with vast fields surrounding the town producing crops that were shipped across the country. The arrival of the Northern Pacific Railroad in 1886 further boosted Ellensburg’s growth by connecting it to larger markets.
However, tragedy struck on July 4, 1889, when a massive fire destroyed much of downtown Ellensburg. Undeterred by this setback, residents rebuilt their town using fire-resistant brick buildings that still stand today as symbols of resilience.
The Rise of Coal Mining in Cle Elum, WA
While Ellensburg flourished as an agricultural center, Cle Elum emerged as a coal mining hub. In 1884, coal deposits were discovered near Cle Elum, sparking rapid development. Walter Reed and Thomas Gamble played key roles in establishing the town by building sawmills to support mining operations and convincing the Northern Pacific Railroad to move its depot to Cle Elum.
By 1902, Cle Elum was officially incorporated as a town with Thomas Gamble serving as its first mayor. Coal mining became the backbone of Cle Elum’s economy, providing fuel for locomotives and jobs for hundreds of workers. The town also developed a thriving timber industry to supply materials for railroad construction.
Despite its industrial focus, Cle Elum maintained a close-knit community spirit. Residents worked together to build schools, churches, and other institutions that laid the foundation for future growth.
Fires That Tested Resilience
Ellensburg and Cle Elum faced devastating fires that tested their communities’ resilience. In 1889, Ellensburg’s downtown was nearly wiped out by flames on Independence Day—a disaster that could have spelled doom for a smaller town. Instead, residents rallied together to rebuild more potently than before.
Similarly, in 1918, Cle Elum experienced a catastrophic fire that destroyed over 70 acres of homes and businesses. Once again, residents refused to give up. Rebuilding efforts brought new opportunities for growth while preserving the town’s rugged charm.
These fires serve as reminders of the determination and unity that define both towns’ histories.
Education and Culture: A Legacy of Growth
Education has played a significant role in shaping both communities. In Ellensburg, Central Washington University (originally known as Washington State Normal School) was established in 1891 to train teachers for Washington’s growing population. Today, CWU remains a cornerstone of Ellensburg’s identity, attracting students from across the state and contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Cle Elum also prioritized education early on by building schools that served local children and those from nearby mining camps. Over time, these institutions helped foster a sense of community pride and opportunity.
Both towns celebrate their histories through museums and cultural events highlighting their unique legacies. From Ellensburg’s annual rodeo—a nod to its ranching roots—to Cle Elum’s historic walking tours showcasing its coal mining past, there are countless ways for residents and visitors alike to connect with these stories.
Modern-Day Attractions
Today, Ellensburg is known for its thriving arts scene and historic downtown district filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can explore landmarks like Dick and Jane’s Spot or take part in events like Jazz in the Valley or Spirit of the West Cowboy Gathering.
Meanwhile, Cle Elum offers outdoor enthusiasts endless opportunities for adventure. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and forests, it’s a popular destination for hiking, fishing, skiing, and camping. The town also boasts nearly 20 buildings listed on historical registers, each offering a glimpse into its storied past.
The histories of Ellensburg and Cle Elum are stories of perseverance and progress—of communities that faced challenges head-on while staying true to their roots. Whether you’re drawn to Ellensburg’s rich cultural heritage or Cle Elum’s rugged natural beauty (or both), these towns offer something special for everyone.
As we look back on their journeys from humble beginnings to thriving communities today, one thing becomes clear: The spirit of resilience that built these towns continues to inspire those who call them home or visit them along their way through Central Washington.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org, kids.kiddle.co, centralwashingtonoutdoor.com, en.wikipedia.org, bestplaces.net
Headfer Image Source: bestplaces.net
