Junius Rochester

Junius Rochester, whose family has shaped the city for many generations, is an award-winning Northwest historian and author of numerous books about Seattle and other places.

Brother Mack: The Itinerate Preacher who once Roamed the Northwest

“He (Brother Mack) didn’t claim to be a great preacher . . .(but) . . . he knew not to rustle (his flock).”

The Little-Known Peter Whose Name Made a Sound

Capt. Vancouver wrote, "to commemorate Mr. Puget’s exertions, the southern extremity I named Puget’s Sound.”

How the Mosquito Fleet Defined Lake Washington

The rich history of Seattle would have been a relatively modest story without these watery links to the second largest lake in Washington State.

The Pacific Northwest’s Cowboy Past

What does a rodeo rider do after breaking bones and breaking horses in a relatively short and violent career?  The answer often was to go to Hollywood.

A Tale of Two Treks Across the Olympics

The idea for this great adventure came from a grizzled Scot and local mountain man named J. H. Christie, who died in 2003. 

The Origins of Seattle’s Love of Sports

Native traditions likely laid a foundation for local sports.

Becoming Spokane: Spokan Gary and a Link Between Cultures

It would be years before Spokan Gary would be honored as a defender of his people.

Anybody Who was Anybody: H.L. Mencken from a Distance

Today, few readers remember the power of HLM’s words and presence on the American cultural stage. 

Excursions: Hood Canal

At the turn of the century Puget Sound became a haven for free-thinkers, religious crusaders, and utopians. 

Water-World: State Ferries as They’re Supposed to be

History buffs, backpackers, stressed commuters, and wide-eyed tourists continue to be charmed and revived by the graceful rhythms aboard our Washington State Ferry system.

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