Vancouver, Whistler & Vancouver Island - Washington, Oregon and the Pacific Northwest - page 855

1853
The Washington Territory is created from the northernmost half of the Oregon Territory. Its bor-
ders later change, but they become permanent when Washington state is created in 1889.
1858
Cascade Railroad Company is the region's first railroad and begins operations in the Columbia
River Gorge. It will take 25 years for transcontinental rail lines to finally reach the Pacific North-
west.
1859
On February 14, Oregon is admitted into the union and becomes the USA's 33rd state, about
nine months after Minnesota achieves its own statehood.
1861
Gold is discovered in the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon.
1871
British Columbia, Canada's third-largest province in area and population, becomes the coun-
try's sixth province to join into Confederation.
1889
On November 11, President Benjamin Harrison signs a bill making Washington the USA's 42nd
state.
1899
Mt Rainier National Park is established on March 2, becoming the USA's fifth national park. It
contains the highest point in the Cascade Range (over 14,000ft).
1937
After three years and $88 million, Bonneville Dam is completed on the Columbia River. The con-
struction provides 3000 crucial jobs during the Great Depression.
1962
Seattle hosts the second major World's Fair since WWII; the Space Needle opens on the first day
of the fair, April 21.
1980