Schmidt House History Talk: Tumwater’s Historic Trails and Roads

Do all roads lead to Tumwater? Some of the most important in Washington’s history certainly do. Former state historical society director Dave Nicandri will share the story of the original Cowlitz Trail, the route that brought the Simmons-Bush emigrant party to the falls of the Deschutes River and its surroundings. This epic 19th-century journey will be followed by an overview of the 20th-century, automobile-era roadways that opened travel to and through Tumwater. The presentation concludes with the city’s plan to mark these historic routes and other notable geographic features.

Who: Olympia Tumwater Foundation
What: Schmidt House History Talks
When: Thursday, November 6, 2025, noon to 1 pm
Cost: Free!
First come, first seated!

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