The Iron Horse

Snohomish River and Historic First Street

The first train to arrive at Snohomish from Seattle pulled up on the south bank of the river because the bridge had not then been completed. This train consisted of two passenger coaches with 12 passengers, a freight car, the engine, and a caboose. 1888 was the year, and it was July 3rd, so the citizens of the little town had a real celebration; crossed the river in canoes and boats and honored the coming of the "Iron Horse" in style.

It was on a Saturday morning, September 15, 1888, that the first train to cross the river, arrived in Snohomish City amidst the jubilation of the townsfolk gathered to meet it.

In October of that same year, a flood jammed the river with thousands of feet of loose logs which lodged tight against the railroad bridge. Before the train crews could get to the scene with their equipment and relieve the situation, the span gave way and toppled into the water.

Before the year was out, however, the bridge was repaired and regular runs were resumed. In 1891 the track to Everett was laid, and thus began the splendid railroad service in our area which has continued until the present day.