Rail Links to Anacortes

In the 1890s, the Northern Pacific Railroad began serving these industries, importing raw materials and exporting finished products to market. The rail line remained active until the 1980s. In 1990, the railroad abandoned the track linking the Anacortes business district to March Point.

In 1995, the City of Anacortes acquired the right-of-way and began transforming it for recreational use as the Tommy Thompson Trail.

This is the fourth in a series based on a new set of Anacortes Heritage signs placed in several locations in Anacortes. The purpose of these signs is to increase awareness of and appreciation for the unique heritage of our community and the need to preserve it. Partners in the project are: Anacortes Historic Preservation Board, Anacortes Museum & Maritime Center, Anacortes Parks & Recreation Department.