For generations, Wilkeson has stood as a symbol of hard work, resilience, and community pride. As one of Washington’s first major coal mining towns, Wilkeson helped fuel the expansion of railroads and the growth of the Pacific Northwest with its refined bituminous coal. Our sandstone-built landmarks across the region, and our timber resources supported industries that shaped the communities around us. 

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Today, reminders of that legacy can still be seen in the historic coke ovens, the Wilkeson Gateway Arch, Town Hall, the Wilkeson School, and the spirit of our handcar races. These landmarks and traditions remind us that we are a town proud of its roots, rich in history, and deeply connected to the land. As the gateway to Mount Rainier, Wilkeson has always welcomed those seeking strength, beauty, and a sense of belonging. Our businesses, restaurants, and shops carry forward the same spirit of resilience and community that has defined us for generations. 

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Now, with the closure of Fairfax Bridge, we find ourselves at a crossroads. While we continue to advocate for restored access to Mount Rainier, we also recognize the need to move boldly toward shaping a future of our own making. This moment calls for partnership with all who are impacted in Carbon Canyon, uniting around what is best for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Together, we must stand with one voice in demanding restored access while also building new opportunities. 

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Wilkeson’s Way Forward is our vision for that future. It is a multi-faceted initiative designed to address the unique needs and opportunities facing our town and the greater Canyon community. This program is intentionally flexible, able to evolve as circumstances change and challenges arise, so that we can respond quickly and keep moving forward. At its core, it represents more than a response to adversity, it is an investment in the enduring strength, resilience, and spirit of Wilkeson. 

 

Four Main Areas of Focus for This Initiative 

1. Supporting the Residents South of the Bridge 

Fairfax families remain our top priority. We are advancing emergency grant funding in partnership with the Washington State Department of Commerce to improve access gates, create safe evacuation routes, map locations for EMS, and strengthen communication systems. These measures are critical to ensuring that residents cut off by the bridge closure have safer, more reliable access until full restoration is possible. 

 

2. Supporting Wilkeson’s Small Businesses 
Local businesses are the heart of Wilkeson. Many have been severely impacted by the loss of visitors since the Fairfax Bridge closure. To help, the Wilkeson Historical District has launched a GoFundMe where contributions go directly toward grant assistance for these businesses. By supporting them, we preserve the shops, restaurants, and services that make Wilkeson a true gateway community to Mount Rainier.  If you're interested in helping our small businesses-

 

3. Recreation and Conservation Land Acquisition 
Wilkeson has a rare opportunity to secure 139 acres just beyond our historic downtown. This land can be transformed into trails, parks, and gathering spaces that will serve our community for generations. It will be a place where families grow together, visitors connect with our small-town spirit, and new traditions are built on Wilkeson’s proud legacy of coal, stone, and resilience. This acquisition is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to both honor our history and shape a thriving future. If you're interested in donating funds for the acquisition and future development of this property- 

 

4. Fairfax Bridge Rebuild Advocacy 
The long-term goal is full bridge replacement. Achieving this will require persistent advocacy over the next two years to secure dedicated funding in the Washington State Department of Transportation budget. It will take coordination, ongoing conversations, and strong support from both our community and National Park advocates. Access to Mount Rainier, and to all National Parks, is a national treasure that should remain open to everyone. While we may not see access fully restored until at least 2031, keeping “Access for ALL” at the forefront ensures future generations will have the opportunity to enjoy these lands. 

 

 

Together, we can make a lasting difference for generations to come. Let’s build the next chapter of Wilkeson together!​ 

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About the Wilkeson Historical District​

The Wilkeson Historical District is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving our cultural heritage, supporting economic revitalization, and strengthening the future of Wilkeson, Washington. Donations made to the Wilkeson Historical District directly support projects that restore historic spaces, improve local infrastructure, and create new opportunities for the community and small businesses impacted by recent access challenges.

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Every contribution helps us protect Wilkeson's legacy while investing in its growth. As a federally recognized nonprofit, all donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.