Caton Coldicott

Senior Project Advisor

Tammi Laninga

Document Type

Project

Publication Date

Spring 2024

Keywords

Development, Whatcom, Land Claim

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of the Donation Land Claim Act of 1850 on the development of Bellingham, Washington, focusing on the transformation of land use and platting over time. The Act provided 320 acres to married white settlers and 160 acres to single white males. This was one of the most important federal acts in settling what would become Washington State. This research focuses on using historical plat maps to identify which Donation Land Claim recipients developed their land into Bellingham, Washington. Using historical documents, maps, and plats, the research traces the land's transition from large rural plots to urban subdivisions. Key findings include the significant influence of original grantee families such as the Eldridges, Roeders, and Peabodys, who played pivotal roles in early Bellingham’s development. The paper also discusses how many of the original families had little effect on this part of the development and left the area before it began its development. The research mapped historical land claims against modern Bellingham, showing how original allocations were subdivided and developed over time. Much of this platting still exists today and this paper explores how decisions made over 140 years ago still affect Bellingham’s physical shape.

Department

Environmental Studies

Type

Text

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Language

English

Format

application/pdf

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