[Delegates of the constitutional convention at the Territorial Capitol, Olympia, Washington], 1889, Inauguration of Governor Ferry Photographs, 1889, Washington State Archives.

In the summer of 1889, seventy-five delegates from around Washington Territory convened in Olympia to take a major step towards securing statehood. Between July 4th and August 22nd, 1889, the delegation drafted the Washington State Constitution, forming the basis for all future Washington laws.

[Dedication of the first Hood Canal Bridge, bicycler, August 12, 1961] / photo by Merle Junk, Olympia, Department of Transportation, Agency Library, Photograph Collections, Washington State Archives

On August 12, 1961, thousands of Washingtonians gathered on the eastern side of the Hood Canal Bridge celebrate its dedication. Ernest Caddick (1895-1973), a retired magician from Bainbridge Island commanded the spotlight during the day's festivities. Known in his performing days as Ernesti, The Clown Prince of Magic, Caddick claimed the honor of being the first person to cross the new bridge— and the first to do it blindfolded. Learn more below!