Dive into the story of Three Tree Point a place shaped by time and tide. This low gravelly spit on Puget Sound’s east side has a past richer than its sandy shores. Some navigation charts call it Point Pully. This recognizes Robert Pulley, a crew member of the Wilkes Expedition.
Once upon a time, Three Tree Point was a resort haven. In its early years, a dock graced the north beach. Summer homes and cabins dotted the landscape. As permanent residents increased, a clubhouse called “The Cove” emerged. It had a tennis court and dance floor. Many events and parties took place here.
During World War II, Three Tree Point played a vigilant role. Lookouts took shifts in the light tower. They scanned the skies for enemy planes. Imagine the dedication of these sentinels. They watched over the Puget Sound.
Today, Three Tree Point is a densely populated residential area. Tree preservation is a priority here. The surrounding waters are popular for scuba divers. They explore the depths just off the point.
But where did the name Three Tree Point come from? The point received its name from three massive fir trees. They stood on its north side at the start of the 20th century. These trees were landmarks. They greeted those arriving by sea.
The area remained largely undeveloped until 1903. The Three Tree Point Company began marketing the community. They pitched it as a place for summer homes. This was for those seeking a beach lifestyle. A friendly chat sparked a book about Three Tree Point. Pam Harper talked to her neighbor Doug Shadel. He had a picture of her house under construction in the 1920s.
They started talking about the community’s history. Shadel suggested they write a book. Pam and her husband Guy joined Doug. Together they convinced Arcadia Publishing to release the book. The book presents images of family life. It shows unusual characters and holiday celebrations. Shipwrecks and fishing derbies are included too.
Three Tree Point has exceptional recreational opportunities. The Native Americans came to the point to fish and “have a holiday”. Later wealthy Seattle businessmen built summer cabins here. Pam Harper fondly recalls playing on the Point. She swam in the water and used boats. She water skied without much adult supervision.
Three Tree Point still offers beautiful sunsets. Whales and eagles often pass by. Residents escape the noise from Sea-Tac Airport. The smell of salt air permeates the area.
The native peoples of Puget Sound have history here. The Duwamish and Muckleshoot tribes likely camped here. They fished clammed and picked berries. Three Tree Point had panoramic views of Puget Sound. The bluffs above the water offered a perfect vantage point. From here they could detect approaching war canoes.
According to Northwest historian David Buerge, Three Tree Point was rich in mythology. The waters off Three Tree Point were said to be haunted. A supernatural creature lived here. It was an immense serpent with the forelegs and antlers of a deer.
Three Tree Point is more than just a point on a map. It is a place of natural beauty. It has a rich history. Its waters teem with life. Three Tree Point remains a cherished spot in the Puget Sound.