DES MOINES, WASHINGTON HISTORY

Des Moines History

There is no evidence that Indian tribes had permanent settlements in Des Moines. However, there is ample evidence that the Duwamish and Muckleshoot Indian tribes came to Des Moines for fishing and clamming.

What was to become Des Moines was first sighted by Europeans on May 26, 1792 during the exploration of British naval Captain George Vancouver on his flagship "HMS Discovery". The first Americans to visit the area were part of Charles Wilkes' United States Exploring Expedition, 1838-1842.

The first known settler was John Moore who probably arrived about 1867. His homestead claim certificate (#285) was granted on July 2, 1872.
In 1889, the area was platted into lots for sale by the Des Moines City Improvement Company that was incorporated by F. A. Blasher, Orin Watts Barlow, Charles M. Johnson, and John W. Kleeb. Lumber mills provided the community with its primary employment.

Early transportation to Des Moines was by water. The Mosquito Fleet provided access to Seattle, Tacoma, and Vashon Island. The first road, the Brick Highway, was completed in May 1916. The first cross-Puget Sound automobile ferry started service from Des Moines to Portage on November 13, 1916. This ferry service continued until September 1921. Before World War II farming fueled the local economy.

Following the war, suburbanization of the community occurred. With increased population, the county government was unable to supply the level of service and local control desired by Des Moines residents. In response to this, Des Moines was officially incorporated on June 17, 1959.

The City's most visible asset is its 838-berth small boat marina that was opened on May 10, 1970. In 1980 a 670 foot concrete and aluminum fishing pier was built at the north end of the marina.