LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Centralia: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Centralia through the years.
February 3, 1886 - Centralia is incorporated
1895 - Centralia
Centralia, a post-village of Lewis co., Washington, 5 miles by rail N. of Chehalis. It has 7 churches, 3 banks, 1 daily and 2 weekly newspaper offices, manufactures of soda water, £ &c., and a foundry. Pop. 2026.
1910 - Bad Flood In Centralia - Washington City Three Feet Under Water, Slides Bar Trains.
Tacoma, March 2. - All the business section of Centralia, Wash., is inundated by about three feet of water, caused by the overflow of China Creek. The floods are the worst experienced there for 20 years.
A landslide on each side of Centralia has blocked trains from both directions. All the country between here and Chehalis is covered by a sheet of water. The Northern section of Centralia is suffering the worst damage. There is about four feet of water in the basement of the Union Loan & Trust Company's building.
The Skookum River is receding but this has not affected the overflow on the streets, which comes from China Creek.
Morning Oregonian
Portland, Oregon
March 3, 1910
1915 - Boy’s Injured by Cap Explosion.
CENTRALIA, Wash., June 5. — (Special.) — As the result of the explosion of a dynamite cap with which they were playing, Harvey Omeg, the young son of E. J. Omeg, of Knab, is in a Centralia hospital, while his younger brother, Hubert, is badly injured about the breast, stomach and hands. When the accident happened the mother was alone at home. The older boy was rushed by auto to this city. His recovery is expected.
The Oregonian
Portland, Oregon
June 6, 1915
1916
Centralia, a banking oity of Lewis co., Wash., on the Northern Pacific R., 4 miles N. of Chehalis. It has important lumber interests. Pop. in 1900, 1600.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1
Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916
J.B. Lippincott - Publisher
1919 - November 11 - Centralia Massacre (Armistice Day Riot)
During a parade celebrating the first anniversary of Armistice Day, a conflict occurred between the American Legion and workers who were members of the Industrial Workers of the World. It resulted in six deaths. It was the culmination of years of bad blood between members of the local Legion and members of the IWW.
Here's a list of some of the best places to go and things to do in Centralia:
Fort Borst Park:
Start your visit with a relaxing time at Fort Borst Park. It's a spacious park with green lawns, walking trails, and picnic areas. There's also a playground for kids, making it a great spot for families.
Centralia Factory Outlets:
If you're a fan of shopping, the Centralia Factory Outlets are a must-visit. With a range of stores offering discounted prices on popular brands, it's a shopper's paradise.
NW Sports Hub:
For sports enthusiasts, the NW Sports Hub is a fantastic venue. It hosts various sports events and activities. Whether you want to watch a game or join in, it's a hub of athletic energy.
Historic Borst Home Museum:
Immerse yourself in the town's history by visiting the Historic Borst Home Museum. It's a beautifully preserved Victorian home that offers guided tours, providing insights into Centralia's past.
Dick's Brewing Company:
Enjoy a taste of local brews at Dick's Brewing Company. They often have a rotating selection of craft...
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History of Centralia, Washington, USA
