Discovery Series Ornament – Washington

Discovery Series Ornament – Washington is a brand new release from the Evergreen State. Washington State, located in the Pacific Northwest, is known for its rich history and diverse landscape. Named after George Washington, it became the 42nd state of the U.S. in 1889. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Coast Salish, before European explorers arrived in the late 18th century. The area thrived during the logging and mining booms of the 19th century and later became a hub for technology and innovation, with companies like Microsoft and Amazon calling it home. Famous for landmarks like Mount Rainier and the Space Needle, Washington continues to be a leader in environmental sustainability and technological advancement.

Here are the symbols of the state as seen in the design of Discovery Series Washington Ornament:

The front of the ornament showcases Mount Rainier, an iconic stratovolcano and the highest peak in Washington State, standing at 14,411 feet (4,392 meters). Located in Mount Rainier National Park, southeast of Seattle, this majestic mountain is a symbol of the region’s natural beauty. Alongside the towering peak, the design also features a leaping salmon, representing the state’s abundant wildlife and thriving ecosystems. Interestingly, the designers of the ornament seem to have drawn inspiration from the 2007 Washington state quarter, which prominently displayed both Mount Rainier and the leaping salmon as symbols of the state’s rich heritage and environment.

Bigfoot, also known as Sasquatch, is a legendary creature often associated with the dense forests of Washington State and the Pacific Northwest. Described as a large, hairy, human-like being, Bigfoot has been part of Native American folklore for centuries and gained widespread attention in the 20th century through reported sightings and footprints. While many consider Bigfoot a myth, Washington remains a hotspot for enthusiasts and researchers hoping to uncover evidence of this elusive creature.

The Willow Goldfinch, also known as the American Goldfinch, was designated as Washington State’s official bird in 1951. Known for its vibrant yellow plumage and cheerful song, this small bird thrives in open fields, meadows, and gardens across the state. Its bright colors and lively presence symbolize the natural beauty and vitality of Washington’s diverse ecosystems.

The Western Hemlock, officially recognized as Washington State’s tree in 1947, is a towering evergreen that thrives in the state’s lush, rainy forests. Known for its graceful, drooping branches and soft needles, the Western Hemlock plays a vital role in the local ecosystem, providing shelter and food for wildlife. This majestic tree represents Washington’s rich timber heritage and the importance of preserving the state’s natural environment.

Washington State is known for its wine production and is the second-largest wine-producing state in the U.S., after California. With over 1,000 wineries and more than 70 grape varieties, Washington’s diverse climate and fertile soil make it ideal for growing high-quality grapes. The state’s wine regions, such as Walla Walla Valley, Yakima Valley, and Columbia Valley, are famous for producing award-winning wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay.