ENUMCLAW FACTS & HISTORY
EXPLORE OUR ROOTS
THUNDERING MOUNTAIN
In 1879, Frank and Mary Stevenson homesteaded what is now the center of town. Early settlers called this area “Stevensonville,” but the early natives knew it as “Enumclaw,” a word with different translations, but most reference it meaning a “loud, thundering noise.” Enumclaw is the name that stuck. Enumclaw was platted in 1885, when the railroad decided to run through the center of town, and was incorporated on January 27, 1913.
Explore Our Roots
See how the early settlers lived and learn about the industries that made the area great at the Enumclaw Plateau Historical Society Museum. Local residents volunteer their time and knowledge to visitors.
Enumclaw Plateau Historical Society Museum
Open: Thursday & Sunday, 1-4 p.m.
1837 Marion Street
(360) 825-3356 www.enumclawhistorymuseum.com
MORE HISTORY
Enumclaw History – Various articles via HistoryLink.org (link)
“Enumclaw Becomes a Town: 1879-1913” via Patch (link)
Photos and ephemera, via Washington Rural Heritage (link)
GEOGRAPHY
Enumclaw rests in a pastoral setting between plateau farmlands and the Cascade Mountains in the shadow of one of Washington State’s most beloved treasures – Mount Rainier. The area was formed by a volcanic mudflow from Mount Rainier.
Enumclaw considers itself the base camp for “The Mountain” and is known as the “gateway” to the north entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, which can be accessed through the Chinook Scenic Byway on State Route 410.
Enumclaw’s beautiful homes with their well-kept yards contribute to the community being one of the most attractive in King County.
The surrounding plateau, with a population of more than 40.000, is a large Thoroughbred horse breeding area.
QUICK FACTS
Pronunciation: E-NUM-claw
City Population (2020 Census) – 12,543
Elevation – 750 feet
Area – 5.1 square miles
Known as: Gateway to Mount Rainier
Major Employers – Helac Corp, Mutual of Enumclaw, Nor-Pac Seating, Nether Industries, Hill AeroSystems, City of Enumclaw, Enumclaw School District, St. Elizabeth Hospital Industries – Insurance, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Agriculture, Equestrian