The History of Preston, Washington
By Curt Cunningham

Preston, Washington, is a small but historically significant town located about 50 miles east of Seattle and just six miles east of Issaquah. Nestled along the Raging River, Preston’s development was shaped by roads, railways, and industry, especially lumber milling. The town’s distinct upper and lower portions, with the latter along the riverbanks, reflect its early layout and the challenges posed by steep terrain and rugged surroundings. Preston’s evolution from a modest settlement in the 1880s to a close-knit community highlights its resilience and adaptability. Here is an overview of Preston’s rich history. 

Early Roads and Settlement: 1880s 

Preston’s origins date back to the mid-1880s, after the completion of King County Road #186, also known as the O. P. Stephenson Road, which connected Issaquah to Snoqualmie Ridge. This new route, completed in 1886, provided an alternative way up Snoqualmie Ridge where it intersected with King County Road #99, part of the Old Snoqualmie Pass Wagon Road. This network of roads offered settlers and travelers access to the area, establishing Preston as a convenient waypoint.

The road's steep descent from Upper to Lower Preston along the Raging River was difficult for wagons and early motor vehicles alike. After crossing the bridge over the Raging River the road ran up Icy Creek for about a half mile before climbing a steep grade to the top of Snoqualmie Ridge. The grade was over 20% which made it difficult for travelers.

In 1889 Road #186 intersected with Road #205, the H. H. Ludvigson Road, linking the Raging River community to Fall City. However, once Road #205 was operational, the section of Road #186 from Raging River to Snoqualmie Ridge was abandoned due to the steep grade which had been impassible at times.

The Arrival of the Railroad: 1888-1889

The arrival of the Seattle, Lakeshore & Eastern Railroad (SL&E) in 1888 marked a significant milestone for Preston. The railway aimed to connect Seattle to Spokane but initially only reached North Bend due to financial constraints. On September 16, 1888, the first SL&E train left Seattle, reaching the Raging River after a four-hour journey, reducing the length of stagecoach travel needed between Fall City and North Bend by ten miles. This connection brought an influx of people and goods into the area, solidifying Preston’s role as a transit hub. In 1896 the Seattle & International Railroad purchased the SL&E.

The railway's impact on the local economy was profound, supporting logging and milling operations and allowing the export of timber products. Though the SL&E line never reached beyond North Bend and was eventually abandoned in the 1970s, it served as an essential artery for Preston's economy for nearly a century.

Establishing a Community and Mill Industry: 1890s

By 1890, Preston had a modest population, with early homesteaders receiving their mail in Olney (now Issaquah). The community's growth accelerated with the arrival of the Lovegren family. August Lovegren, who arrived with his family in the early 1890s, played a pivotal role in shaping Preston's future. Born Lars August Olsson in 1861, but when he was a young adult, he changed his surname to Lofgren, which was eventually Americanized to Lovegren. He and his brothers, Emil and John, established their homes in the area, marking the beginning of Preston’s development as a lumber town.

By 1892 there was a small general store, logging camp and the population numbered about seventy-five. After a few years the logging camp was abandoned. In 1892, the Preston Mill Company was founded with a capital of $4,000 by Lovegren and; L. P. Skoop, Elof Edwin, Isak Blomquist, Samuel Isaacson and Sven Larson.

The mill, initially a shingle operation, quickly became the heart of the community. When the economic Panic of 1893 threatened the mill’s survival, Lovegren took a leap of faith, buying out his partners and dedicating himself to keeping the mill operational. In 1896, he moved the mill a mile and a half east and expanded operations by adding a sawmill.

On January 13, 1893 the Preston Post Office was established with John F. Hudson as the postmaster. This is most likely when Preston received its name in honor of William T. Preston of the SL&E railroad.

Growth and Expansion: 1900s

The Northern Pacific Railroad had acquired the Seattle & International railroad in 1901 and enhanced rail service. With improved rail connections, Preston continued to thrive as a lumber town. The population reached approximately 500 by 1909, with residents scattered over a five-mile radius. Preston’s bustling community supported various industries, including saw and shingle mills, a logging camp, and small-scale farming. Coal deposits nearby hinted at additional resource potential.

By this time, Preston had established itself as a thriving small town with essential services, including a public school, two hotels, a general store, and a Baptist church. The sawmill and shingle mills were especially productive, cutting approximately 50,000 board feet of lumber and 100,000 shingles daily. These mills were vital to the economy, employing many residents and shaping Preston’s local identity.

The Preston Mill Company owned around 4,000 acres of timber-rich land by 1909, giving it significant influence over the town and surrounding area. With their land holdings and production capabilities, the company dominated the local economy, effectively making Preston a company town.

Road Improvements and New Highways: 1910s-1930s

Infrastructure improvements in the early 20th century reflected Preston’s increasing importance. In 1912, a new road connecting Upper and Lower Preston bypassed the steep grades of the older route, making travel more accessible. This road ran just west of what is now 307th Ave SE and provided easier access to Lower Preston.

The construction of the Sunset Highway by the State Highway Department in 1914 further bolstered Preston’s connectivity. This highway, which passed through Preston on its way to Fall City and North Bend, connected the community to broader Washington State and remained a main route until 1936. By 1935, the Echo Lake cut-off was under construction, and its completion provided a more direct route to North Bend, which later evolved into today’s eastbound lanes of Interstate 90. These transportation improvements helped sustain Preston’s economy and accessibility, supporting the town’s industries and residents.

Mid-20th Century Decline and Modern Preston

As the lumber industry began to decline, Preston’s mills faced challenges, and the town’s population dwindled. By the 1970s, the railway line was abandoned, symbolizing the end of an era in Preston's industrial history. Nevertheless, Preston retained its strong community spirit, and its scenic location and proximity to larger cities made it an attractive place for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Today, Preston is a small, unincorporated community with a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Though it has transitioned away from its mill-centered economy, its history remains an integral part of its identity. The remnants of old logging roads, early infrastructure, and the legacy of the Lovegren family highlight the enduring spirit of a town once bustling with industry.