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Writer's pictureGhost Towns and Mines of Washington
Oct 16, 20231 min read

Old Alder Pierce County WA

The old or original town of Alder was located in Pierce County WA where present day Alder lake is located.

Alder was platted in 1905 by Martin Holes. The name of the town was taken from the abundance of alder trees on the hills surrounding the town site. In 1909 the town had a population of 200 with two general stores, two hotels, fraternal hall, church, school, saw and shingle mill, and two logging camps nearby.

In 1942 the second Nisqually Dam Project began. Construction on the Dam lasted through WWII. In September of 1944 the last bucket of concrete was poured, completing the dam. The town of Alder moved out, and the town site was flooded shortly there after.


Today there is very little visible to suggest the town of Old Alder ever existed, except when draw downs on Alder lake occur. These draw downs reveal foundations and roadways of the once flourishing town.

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The Adventure Begins Now. 

Most outdoor enthusiasts go hiking, fishing or mountain climbing, Ghost Towns of Washington has an enthusiasm all our own.  Ghost Towns of Washington seeks out towns, mining sites, and historic sites that once existed or will cease to exist in the near future.  Photographing and documenting these remnants of our past.

 

In 2010 we decided to embark on a series of weekend self guided adventures to ghost towns and historic mining sties in Washington.  We set out seeking the thrill of adventure and undiscovered treasure.  What we discovered was much more rewarding.

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