The History of the Preston Mill and Tramway in Preston, Washington
By Curt Cunningham

Early Days of the Preston Mill Company

The Preston Mill Company, founded in 1896, was a central part of Preston, Washington’s economy and community for nearly a century. Preston was a lumber town as logging emerged as the Northwest’s leading industry. This shift was due in part to the abundant forests surrounding Preston and the construction of the Northern Pacific Railroad, which allowed for expanded distribution of timber products.

Preston Mill became one of the longest-operating sawmills in the region. Over the years, it grew into a vital resource for local employment and economic stability, especially in the early 20th century, when logging operations were a primary industry in King County. The mill’s success helped shape the development of infrastructure in Preston, including the innovative tramway system that connected the mill to the railroad.

The Tramway: Overcoming Geographic Challenges

The Northern Pacific Railroad was instrumental to Preston’s timber industry, but the mill’s location presented a logistical challenge. The mill was situated at a lower elevation than the railroad line, making it impractical to build a traditional railroad spur. To overcome this, the Preston Mill Company constructed a tramway—a mechanized transport system that carried lumber uphill from the mill to the railway. This tramway system, likely consisting of a series of pulleys, cables, and tracks, was an efficient solution that allowed lumber to move smoothly up the hill to waiting trains.

The tramway was a critical part of Preston’s logging operations, enabling Preston Mill to transport its products to markets throughout Washington and beyond. Its success represented the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the early 20th-century timber industry, which often adapted to challenging terrain and logistical hurdles.

Road Developments and Community Growth

As the town of Preston grew, road construction and infrastructure became increasingly important to its residents and industries. In 1906, King County Road #771, also known as the August Lovegren Road, was established. Named after a prominent figure in Preston’s development, this road improved access for residents living in the elevated areas around Preston, making it easier to reach essential community centers, such as the local school and store in Highpoint. 

In 1912, King County completed significant upgrades to King County Road #186, rerouting the road to what is now known as 307th Avenue SE. This new route replaced the older, steeper wagon road that had once brought travelers into Lower Preston from the north end of the cemetery. The new alignment allowed for easier access to the mill and the surrounding areas, supporting both the transportation of goods and the movement of people through Preston.

In 1923, further improvements came with the improvment of the Sunset Highway, which included a new concrete bridge built over the tramway, replacing the original 1906 wooden bridge. Remarkably, this bridge is still in use today and stands as a piece of Preston’s enduring infrastructure.

The Preston Community Center

In 1938, as part of Preston’s community-focused development, the Preston Community Center was constructed near the tramway. The center became a local gathering place, hosting events, meetings, and social gatherings that strengthened the town’s social fabric. This community investment highlighted the ongoing connection between Preston Mill’s operations and the town’s civic life, as the mill’s success continued to foster community development.

Decline and Legacy of Preston Mill

Despite its initial success and longevity, the Preston Mill eventually faced challenges in the latter half of the 20th century. As logging regulations tightened and economic conditions shifted, the demand for large-scale sawmills in rural areas waned. The Preston Mill Company cut its last board in 1990, marking the end of an era for the mill and the surrounding community.

After the mill ceased operations, the site lay abandoned for many years. However, recognizing its historical significance and value as a local heritage site, King County eventually repurposed the area. Today, the old mill grounds have been transformed into a county park, preserving this important piece of Preston’s history for future generations. The park includes some remnants of the mill’s infrastructure, allowing visitors to catch a glimpse of the town’s rich industrial past and to appreciate the role that the Preston Mill Company played in shaping the region.

Historical Impact and Significance

The Preston Mill and tramway are a fascinating example of how small industrial communities adapted to their unique geographic and economic challenges. The mill not only provided employment but also played a crucial role in developing the town’s infrastructure and community facilities. The tramway, bridges, and roads built around the mill supported the community’s growth and made Preston an essential part of the region’s logging industry.

Today, the remnants of the tramway, the 1923 concrete bridge, and the mill-turned-county-park serve as a reminder of Preston’s legacy in Washington’s logging history. Through these preserved structures and ongoing community interest, the story of the Preston Mill Company and its innovations continue to connect past and present generations in Preston.