Aberdeen, WA History

Thank you Brian Little for sharing this gem. He also told me that yesterday would have been the Chamber's 122nd Anniversary yesterday February 16th, 2014 We have some wonderful historians in our town. They generously do the research and then share their findings.

Newspaper clipping from unknown source. 1932

A.J. WEST: A.J. West, pioneer Aberdeen Wash, lumberman, builder of the first mill in  Grays Harbor, died at his home January 11th. Mr. West had celebrated his 81st birthday last month. Although he had been in feeble health for some time he arose as usual on the morning of his death, breakfasted with his family, and appeared in the best of spirits Mr. West was largely instrumental in securing construction of the Grays Harbor branch of the Northern Pacific from Junction City to Aberdeen, a distance of about three miles. He was also Interested in securing the entrance of the Milwaukee Railroad into Grays Harbor. Mr. West formed a partnership with SE Slade under  the firm name of West & Slade which operated for several years. This company was dissolved. Later Mr. West built another sawmill that operates under the name of A.J. West Lumber Company. At one time Mr. West served as mayor of Grays Harbor. He was a Mason and was buried under their auspices. Mr. West leaves a wife and two sons Watson E and Edward R. 

Page from 50 year celebration program.