As we mourn the loss of the ferry to Bellingham, and as federal infrastructure bills are being considered in Congress, there has been much discussion during the border closure about our infrastructure and self-sufficiency.
This year holds several historical anniversaries of previous milestones in the infrastructure in Point Roberts. For instance, this is the 90th anniversary of electricity service in Point Roberts, a modern convenience which didn’t arrive here until 1931, a full 45 years after Seattle, by comparison, was lit up. The canceled ferry joins cable TV on the list of infrastructure missing in Point Roberts. This year is the 50th anniversary of cable TV arriving on the Point. That service began in 1971 and operated for 48 years before being shut down in 2019.
With some recent suggestions that Point Roberts incorporate to help run our affairs locally, we can point to an anniversary there too. It’s the 40th anniversary of an attempt for Point Roberts to incorporate as a city, back in 1981. It’s worth remembering we used to have local government.
Soon after federal government ownership of Point Roberts ended, the Point became a township in 1911. This year is the 110th anniversary of the Point Roberts Township which provided local representation for 58 years. Washington essentially ended the township system in 1969, and for the last 52 years, we’ve been in unincorporated Whatcom County.
Our infrastructure and local autonomy have changed many times over the decades. Remembering past efforts may help to inform our current dialogues.
The Point Roberts History Center on Gulf Road is open Saturdays for you to explore our local history, to get inspired for today’s challenges.
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