North Cascades

SETTLEMENT PATTERNS IN THE NORTH CASCADES

CORRIDORS OF SETTLEMENT: CASCADE RIVER

Barrett

One of the earlier downriver settlers noted on the 1894 GLO map was William Barrett (also spelled Barratt). He homesteaded at the confluence of the Cascade and Skagit Rivers and purchased rights in 1891 to approximately 20 acres of cleared land previously held by Indians. [28] This was a prime location for intercepting traffic headed up both rivers, and Barrett capitalized upon his position by operating Marblemount's first ferry, transporting miners, packers, settlers, and other travelers across the often swift-moving waters. [29] Beyond Barrett's there were five other claims, two noted as "Moses," one "E.J. Taylor," and across the river from Taylor, "Mrs. Davis"; the fifth claim is somewhat illegible but appears to be "Scotties."