How the School District Got it's Name:
In 1926 at the 3 story brick School (now serves as Tahoma Middle School), the Students took the first two letters of the surrounding communities of Taylor Creek, Hobart, and Maple Valley
Who's Got Mail?
The first post "office" was opened on May 22, 1882 in Arthur, which was about 1.5 miles North of where Maple Valley is today. Charles Russell was the postmaster. His "office" was in his home.
Seattle's Vacation Playground
Lake Wilderness, which had been one of the largest lumber Mills in King County became a resort community in the 1920's. Tom and Kane Gaffney began developing the resort in 1925 complete with a roller rink, ballroom and restaurant. The hot spot continued to grow, adding a bowling alley, rental cabins and a 9 hole golf course. This was one of the most popular destinations in King County, operating independently until 1964 when the it was purchased by the County and turned into a park.
Early Businesses:
"Old Town" Maple Valley, which still exists today, looked very different in the early 1900's. There was a train stop at Maxwell Road, across from the RE/MAX and Shell Station and "rumor has it" there was a certain type of hotel establishment....(ok, it was a Brothel) open for business.
There was also a General Store at the end of 216th, by the river, two saloons and a barber shop.
The Olson Mansion:
Now known as "The Links at Taylor Creek", most of Maple Valley still refers to this beautiful home and property as "The Olson Mansion". The property was purchased in 1898 by Olof and Mathilda Olson. Olof was a contractor with the railroads. He specialized in tunnel construction. The famous "barrel vault" barn which was built in 1909 still stands today and has been converted for use as reception facilities.
The Maple Valley Historical Society has posted some fun photos if you're interested in viewing them.
If anyone has other fun facts to add, I'd love hearing them!
Colleen "Fish" Fischesser
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