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Roads North to Sedro Wooley and Van Zandt

© Jerri Brooker

I'm taking the Northern route this week. Join me for some great sites, history, folklore and fun, won't you?

Sedro Wooley and Skagit River Journal

Noel Bourasaw introduced me to the Skagit River Journal (Journal) some time ago. I added it to my links, but I didn't really introduce Bourasaw's publication to you. It's full of Skagit County history, old photos, tales of yore and lots more surprises, like ..."The Four Bachelors..." that settled Sedro Wooley and the "Tarheel Stomp." It covers areas from British Columbia to the San Juans.

There's an amazing photo of folks dancing on a 16-foot cedar stump and other eye candy at the site for your enjoyment. Here's the link: http://www.stumpranchonline.com/skagitjo... . Allow some time to visit this link; it's really fun if you're a history buff. Like steam train history? It's there, too. Fascinating tales, all of them.

Sedro Wooley, home to the Journal, is also home to Northern State hospital, a mental hospital. The grounds of the hospital have something in common with Central Park in New York. Noel's history will tell you what, so be sure to read about it. I guarantee you will enjoy learning about this place where historical Doc Jones actually did lobotomies at one time. While you read Noel's treats, have a good time exploring more of the beautiful city up north.

One of these days I'll take you back north to see the town of Sedro Wooley through my eyes. For now I'm most interested in sending you Noel's way to read the history. You won't be disappointed

Van Zandt and Everybody's Store

When I was mapping a route to Abbotsford for the CE picnic, which I didn't attend after all, I found Everybody's Store at http://www.everybodys.com - what another great find! Now I have to be sure I get there some time soon. It sounds like a kick.

Owner Jeff Margolis says this is "everybody's" store as he has a bit of everything for everybody. A waterfall view of the Van Zandt Crag to local mohair socks, internationally-known locally-made sausage, local honey and folk art bring customers back time and again. Check it out; the inventory is online.

Read about the August 18-19 Herbal Faire Extravaganza in the area, too. It's a big event, including 60 workshops! Don't miss it. A link is on the Everybody's Store site. From here go to: http://www.nwherbalfaire.com .

Directions to Everybody's Store: From Burlington on I-5 you'd exit east on State Route 9 to Van Zandt and the South Fork Valley (no signs, but if you stay on 9 heading to Sumas you'll find it). Everybody's store is located in Van Zandt but has a Deming address. The store site has a map so you shouldn't have trouble finding your way. From Abbotsford, just go south.

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