The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Two new books, The Brix Logging Story as well as The Brix Maritime Story, are being released by Peter Brix and Bryan Penttila and the Appelo Archives Center, 1056 SR 4, Naselle, will have both of them available on May 18 to have signed and purchase. The authors will be present from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Brix Logging Story: In the woods of Washington and Oregon follows the lives and careers of four German-born brothers who arrived in the big timber country of the lower Columbia River in 1881 with little more than a restless desire to succeed in this new land.

Rare photographs from the family’s archives illustrate the story, together with images shared by historical museums and noted private collectors. Painstaking research was gathered about logging companies and their railroads, producing detailed maps drawn from USGS overlays, aerial imagery, period company maps and on-the-ground investigation.

Written by Bryan Penttila and Peter Brix, this book focuses on the unique legacy the Brix family left on local areas. The Brix Logging Story is an insightful and unique contribution to the literature of Pacific Northwest forest history as well as a testament to the valiant entrepreneurs who helped shape this great region.

The Brix Maritime Story: A Century of Towboating and Barging written by Peter Brix, covers over 100 years of reflecting the growth of logging transportation by water. Brix Maritime (originally, Knappton Towboat Company) became a major contributor to marine transportation in the United States. Recounted by a third generation Brix, who worked from deckhand to CEO in the family business, The Brix Maritime Story is a unique tale. It shows how logging and marine transportation were joined in the early 1900s, with towboats and barges playing a central role in economic growth in Washington and Oregon. As commerce expanded mid-century and locks allowed vessels to pass upriver, Brix boats reached for broader territories and opportunity, ultimately providing service into Idaho, California and Alaska. Photographs of over 260 tugboats are shown, and over 170 barges listed, complete with specifications. For the maritime enthusiast, or anyone interested in a personal history of how one family helped to shape an industry, this book is a must-have.

Both books will be available on the Appelo Archives Center’s web site following the event. For more information or to place an order contact the Appelo Archives Center at 360-484-7103 or info@appeloarchives.org.