Industrial Era (1851–2026)

The Industrial Era is defined by rapid transformation. Beginning with the first colonial land claims in 1851. The lower Duwamish watershed saw the systematic straightening and channelization of the river (completed around 1917) to support industrial growth. While this era brought economic development and the birth of Seattle's manufacturing core, it also resulted in the loss of 97% of the original wetlands and significant environmental trauma.

Today, we stand at the threshold of this 175-year chapter, looking towards the future in a rapidly changing world.