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Port Townsend Community

The community of Port Townsend is as varied as the geography that surrounds it. From recreation in the Olympic Mountains to drama at the downtown theatre, the reflection of life here is both connected to the land and to the people. Discovery Bay, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Port Townsend Bay surround the city as it sits at the northeast end of the Quimper Peninsula. It is the seat of Jefferson County.

Port Townsend is "the most sophisticated place west of Seattle" according to one resident in a National Geographic Travel article, and it shows.

It is an eclectic community of artists, long-time residents, boat folks and those looking to avoid the standard cookie-cutter places around it. The politics are contentious, because everyone is right, of course. The music and theatre scene are thriving, and there are many hidden gems in the visual arts, writing and poetry of the area.

Coastal Living Magazine has a 2007 article on "Hidden Gems" with PT included >> Read it here!

Historically, PT was major seaport in the 1800's, and most of that eras' original architecture has remained. Port Townsend is one of only three Victorian seaports in the U.S. on the National Historic Register.

Besides an active historical theme, Port Townsend also combines the best of developing and established artists of all disciplines in presenting workshops, events, Gallery Walks, October's Art in Port Townsend juried art show and festivals year-round. You can never have enough art and PT is considered one of the best small-town art communities in the nation.

Many of today's industries are still based in maritime trades, manufacturing, tourism and timber. Port Townsend Paper still remains the largest employer in the area, though mostly small and mid-size businesses thrive here. There is a strong desire to remain a sustainable community both economically and environmentally.

Emergency & Disaster Preparedness Resources

Just the Facts

• Port Townsend's population is approximately 8,800.
• Jefferson County's population is between 26-27,000
• Established in 1851, we're over 150 years old!
• Weather is moderate, cooler and windier than the I-5 corridor megalopolis.
• Jefferson Healthcare and a fire department with a combination of paid and volunteer staff provide health, safety and fire assistance. City Police and the Jefferson County Sheriff provide law enforcement.
• A variety of educational opportunities, from massage to boat-building are available and the home-schooling option in K through 12 is very popular. We're only missing a four-year accredited college!
• Jobs are scarce, so creativity is encouraged.
• Median home prices are over $300,000 as of 2007. Yikes.
• Our sister city is Ichikawa, Japan.

The combination of art, natural beauty, active citizens, varied economy and history make Port Townsend a unique place to live or visit.

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