Whatcom County, Washington

Entering-Whatcom-County sign at county line in Washington, 1970

Whatcom County, Washington - Sheriff Vehicle

Whatcom County Sheriff- 2015 Chevy Tahoe (17217160492)

Whatcom County, Washington is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, its population was approximately 226,000. The county seat and largest city is Bellingham. Whatcom County is situated in the northwestern corner of the state, bordering Canada to the north, Skagit County to the south, Okanogan County to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west, with the San Juan Islands lying just offshore.

History

Whatcom County was created out of parts of Island County and Skagit County on March 9, 1854. Its name derives from the Lummi word Xwotʼqom, meaning "noisy water," a reference to Whatcom Falls in present-day Bellingham. The area has a rich indigenous history, with the Nooksack people and Lummi Nation being prominent native tribes. European exploration began in the late 18th century, with settlement intensifying in the 19th century due to the fur trade, coal mining, and lumber industries.

Geography

Covering an area of 2,503 square miles, Whatcom County's geography is diverse, featuring coastal areas, several islands (including part of the Lummi Island), mountain ranges such as the Cascade Mountains, and numerous lakes and rivers. The county is also home to Mount Baker, a 10,781-foot active glacier-covered volcano that is a dominant feature of the landscape and a popular recreational destination.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Whatcom County had a population of approximately 226,000. The demographic makeup of the county has been changing, with a growing number of residents coming from outside the state and country. The economy is diverse, with education, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing being significant sectors. Western Washington University in Bellingham is a major employer and educational institution.

Government and Politics

Whatcom County operates under a home rule charter adopted in 1978, with a county executive elected independently of the seven-member county council. The county has a mixed political landscape, with urban areas tending to support Democratic candidates and rural areas more often leaning Republican.

Economy

The economy of Whatcom County is diverse, with key industries including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The county is known for its raspberry production, dairy farming, and seafood processing. In recent years, there has been growth in the technology and clean energy sectors. Tourism also plays a significant role in the local economy, with attractions such as Mount Baker, the San Juan Islands, and the annual Ski to Sea race.

Culture and Recreation

Whatcom County offers a wide range of recreational and cultural activities, from hiking and skiing in the Cascades to exploring the arts and history in Bellingham. The county is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant arts scene. The Whatcom Museum and the Mount Baker Theatre are notable cultural institutions.

Education

In addition to Western Washington University, Whatcom County is served by several public school districts, Whatcom Community College, and Bellingham Technical College. The county's educational institutions offer a range of programs and services to meet the needs of a diverse student population.

Transportation

Transportation in Whatcom County includes a network of state highways, with Interstate 5 being the main north-south route. The county is also served by the Bellingham International Airport, Amtrak's Cascades service, and several public transit systems, including the Whatcom Transportation Authority.