Issaquah: A Brief Overview of its History

The name "Issaquah" is derived from a local Native American word, which translates to several possible meanings, including "the sound of birds", "snake", or "little stream". A historical name for the area, "Squak Valley", also has its roots in this Native American term.

A Glimpse into Issaquah’s Past

In September 1885, a significant event shook the then-unincorporated area when local Chinese laborers, present to pick hops from fields, were attacked. This tragic event led to the demise of three laborers due to gunshot wounds. Shockingly, none of the attackers faced conviction.
 
Issaquah was officially declared a city on April 29, 1892. Initially, it was known as the town of "Gilman" and catered primarily to the mining industry, thanks to the resources available in the nearby Cougar/Squak Mountains.
As the 1890s drew to a close and mining resources began to deplete, Issaquah caught the attention of companies eyeing its potential for lumbering. Timber from Issaquah and neighboring towns was soon exported to Seattle and other burgeoning communities in western Washington.

However, the initial industry boom was followed by a quiet period around the time of the Great Depression. The town witnessed limited activity for several decades, with Boeing becoming the primary employer in the region.

Modern Day Issaquah: Technological Transformation

The advent of technology giants like Microsoft marked a significant shift in Issaquah's economic and cultural landscape. Initially, these companies established their bases in neighboring cities like Redmond, but soon expanded their operations to Issaquah. Both Boeing and Microsoft have left indelible marks on Issaquah’s history, culture, and population. Their community engagement and attraction of external residents have greatly shaped the city. A notable development was in June 1996, when Costco relocated its global headquarters to Issaquah from Kirkland.

In a nutshell:

Understanding Issaquah’s rich history, from its early mining days to its transformation into a tech hub, offers a unique lens to view its present and envision its future. Through this overview, residents and visitors can appreciate the intricate tapestry that makes Issaquah the thriving city it is today.