ROSLYN HERITAGE

Tucked into the eastern slopes of Washington’s Cascade Mountains, Roslyn was founded in 1886 as a coal mining town to support the Northern Pacific Railroad. With immigrants from over 20 countries—many from Italy, Poland, and the Balkans—Roslyn quickly grew into a diverse and bustling community. The town played a central role in the region’s mining economy through the early 20th century and became known for its strong labor unions, vibrant social halls, and rich cultural life. Though the mines closed in the 1960s, Roslyn’s legacy of resilience and community pride continues to shape the town’s identity today.

All Photos Below Are From the Roslyn Museum Collection

You can dive deeper into Roslyn’s heritage by exploring the Roslyn Heritage Photo Archive, which documents the early culture, industry, and everyday life of Roslyn and surrounding Kittitas County. This growing digital collection is a project of the Roslyn Public Library and local partners, funded by a grant from the Washington State Library. Learn more about the project and browse the archive to uncover the stories, people, and places that helped build the heart of this mountain town.

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