35 Facts About Fall City

Location and Geography

Fall City, Washington, is a quaint community with a unique geographical setting. Its location and natural surroundings contribute to its charm and appeal.

1. Location: Fall City is located at the meeting point of the Snoqualmie River and the Raging River in central King County, Washington, about 25 miles east of Seattle.

2. Geography: The confluence of these rivers sometimes leads to flooding during autumn and winter. A strong east wind is typical, caused by pressure gradients carrying higher pressure air across Snoqualmie Pass and down the Snoqualmie Valley.

3. Area: The community covers an area of 2.9 square miles, with a small portion, 0.04 square miles, being water.

4. Climate: Fall City experiences a marine west coast climate, characterized by mild temperature differences and adequate rainfall throughout the year.

Historical Roots

Fall City boasts a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. Its development was shaped by early settlements, transportation, and industry.

5. History: The first settlements began in 1856 with the construction of two forts during the Puget Sound War to protect settlers from potential uprisings by the native population.

6. Fort Patterson and Fort Tilton: These forts were built with the help of Indians led by Chief Patkanim but were abandoned within two years due to peaceful interactions with local tribes.

7. Trading Post: A trading post established in 1869 near the present-day Last Frontier Saloon became a hub of the local economy.

8. Name Origin: Originally known as "The Landing," Fall City got its name due to shallow water and rapids upstream on the Snoqualmie River, making it impassable to large dugout canoes.

9. First Local Mill: The first local mill in the Snoqualmie Valley opened at the mouth of Tokul Creek in the early 1870s, just downstream from Snoqualmie Falls.

10. Post Office: The Fall City post office opened on June 10, 1872, marking a significant development in the community's infrastructure.

Transportation and Economic Development

Transportation advancements played a crucial role in shaping Fall City's economy and accessibility.

11. Steamboats: Small steamboats began ferrying supplies up the river in 1875, significantly improving transportation and commerce.

12. Railway: In the late 1880s, the Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway was built, improving local businesses despite being a mile away from Fall City.

13. Survey and Platting: Jeremiah "Jerry" Borst surveyed and platted Fall City in anticipation of the railroad, although the line was built a mile away in 1889.

14. Tourism: The railroad and the first bridge over the Snoqualmie River made the area accessible to tourists, leading to economic and residential development.

15. Sunset Highway: The improvement of the Sunset Highway in the early 1910s further accelerated the area's growth.

16. Tourist Trade: By the late 1920s, most residents worked in tourism or commuted to nearby cities. The Great Depression and World War II gasoline rationing severely impacted tourism.

17. Rerouting of U.S. Highway 10: After World War II, U.S. Highway 10 was rerouted, bypassing Fall City and affecting tourism and the local economy.

18. Logging Mills: The closure of local logging mills added to the economic decline of Fall City.

Community and Lifestyle

Today, Fall City is a vibrant community with a mix of historical charm and modern living.

19. Bedroom Community: Fall City serves as a bedroom community to the high-tech industry of the Seattle metropolitan area, with large suburban estates and historical homes.

20. Population: As of the 2020 census, Fall City had a population of 2,032.

21. Housing Units: There were 783 housing units, with 31 units being vacant.

22. Racial Makeup: The community is diverse, with 82.3% White, 0.2% African American, 1.2% Native American, 1.9% Asian, and other races making up the population.

23. Age Distribution: 23.0% of the population were under the age of 18.

24. Median Household Income: The estimated median annual household income was $128,224 for the period 2017–21.

Education and Recreation

Fall City offers educational opportunities and a variety of recreational activities for residents and visitors.

25. Education: Residents attend schools from the Snoqualmie Valley School District, with Fall City Elementary School and Chief Kanim Middle School located in the community.

26. Places to Eat: Dining options include Aroma Coffee Co’s, The Last Frontier Saloon, El Caporal Family Mexican Restaurant, and more.

27. Historical Landmarks: The Prescott-Harshman House and The Last Frontier Saloon are significant historical landmarks.

28. Recreational Activities: Visitors can enjoy Snoqualmie Falls, Tokul trails, The Hop Shed, floating the river, and more.

29. Fall City Farms: Hosts a pumpkin patch and seasonal events, with The Lodge at Fall City Farms available for weddings and events.

30. Friday Markets: Every Friday from June 21st to August 30th, Fall City hosts a market with food trucks, artisan markets, and more.

Historical Preservation and Community Events

Fall City values its history and community spirit, with efforts to preserve its past and foster a strong sense of community.

31. Yellowstone Trail: This early transcontinental highway passed through Fall City, impacting local development.

32. Sunset Highway Alteration: By 1925, the route to Seattle was changed to go through Preston to Issaquah, then south around Lake Washington.

33. Historical Preservation: The Fall City Historical Society offers self-guided walking tours highlighting early homes and businesses.

34. Community Events: Various events throughout the year, including Friday Markets and seasonal activities at Fall City Farms, foster community spirit.

35. Natural Beauty: Surrounded by the Snoqualmie and Raging Rivers, Fall City offers scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Fall City: A Blend of History and Nature

Fall City is a unique mix of history, natural beauty, and community spirit. This small town, with its roots dating back to the 1850s, offers a glimpse into the past with landmarks like the Prescott-Harshman House and the Last Frontier Saloon. Its location at the confluence of the Snoqualmie and Raging Rivers provides stunning scenery and outdoor fun, from floating on the river to hiking trails. The community thrives on events like the Friday Markets and seasonal activities at Fall City Farms, bringing residents and visitors together. Despite economic shifts over the years, Fall City remains a charming bedroom community for those working in the Seattle area. Whether you're drawn to its historical sites, outdoor adventures, or small-town charm, Fall City offers something for everyone. It's a place where history and nature coexist, creating a welcoming environment for all.