Information About the Region
Regional History
 Approximately 14,000 years ago, the Sammamish Valley was carved by the Vashon Glacier as it melted and retreated. The continual flooding caused by seasonal storms and glacial melt deposited fertile topsoil throughout the valley. The glacial till found in upland areas supported lush forests of cedar, spruce and fir - home to many kinds of wildlife even today.
The Sammamish Valley area was inhabited by the Native American Simump Tribe prior to white settlement. The area saw an influx of white settlers in the 1870s. All transportation to and from the area was via the Squak Slough (today's Sammamish River). Squak means "swampy lowland" in the Simump language.
Bothell's early economy was driven by the lumber and shingle industries. Bothell was incorporated in 1909, about 20 years after the first plat was filed in the area by David C. and Mary Ann Bothell. According to one legend, there were so many people with the surname "Bothell" in town, the first postmaster said, "Let's call it Bothell." After Lake Washington was lowered in 1917 to construct the Lake Union locks, railroads and later highways became the primary methods of transportation to Bothell.
Woodinville remained a rural area until it was officially incorporated in 1993.
The Region Today
 Today Woodinville is known for its wineries and nurseries. Bothell is a thriving town of about 33,000 residents, while Woodinville has about 10,000. Overlapping the northern edge of King County and the southern edge of Snohomish County, the area retains its rural character despite its relative proximity to downtown Seattle and Bellevue (approximately 20 minute drive to Bellevue and 30 minute drive to Seattle). The region's large number of parks allow residents to take advantage of the lush natural beauty. Excellent skiing and other recreation options in the Cascade Mountains are just an hour away.
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