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In the spring of 1792, England's Captain George Vancouver explored the expansive waters of what is now Puget Sound in Washington State. On May 31 of that year he anchored his ship and came ashore at a point of land which he called Rose Point because of the stunning display of wild pink roses covering the area. At this site they found the remnants of an Indian camp used only during the winter months. A few days later, Captain Vancouver claimed all western Washington as New Georgia in honor of King George III's birthday. Later the points name was changed to Elliot Point by Lt. Charles Wilkes of the U.S. Exploring Expedition of 1838-42. Since 1906 the point has been home to the Mukilteo Lighthouse.

To commemorate Vancouver's historic land, the Washington State Daughters of the American Colonists decided to place a commemorative marker at the lighthouse which now occupies the point. To get ready for the event volunteers and city employees (since the lighthouse is now owned by the City of Mukilteo) spruced up the lighthouse and the grounds for the gala ceremony that was attended by the usual blend of dignitaries. The highlight of the event was a beautiful fireworks display over the historic lighthouse.

Mukilteo Lighthouse is located near the Washington State Ferry Landing, next to the Mukilteo State Park. The lighthouse's seasonal schedule begins in the first weekend of April and continues through the last weekend in September. The hours are 12pm-5pm Saturday, Sundays and holidays and the guided tour includes a climb in the tower and an up-close view of the 4th order lens. The gift shop, maintained at the site by volunteers is used for the ongoing maintenance of the lighthouse. For additional information call 425-513-9602.

Photos by Dennis Harkins

This story appeared in the December 1999 edition of Lighthouse Digest Magazine. For subscription information about the print edition, click here.

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