New map on ferry

A new map of regional sites has been installed on the Ferry Wahkiakum, replacing one that had deteriorated. The map is to scale, with a blown-up area for the details of Puget Island. Created and crafted by Cathlamet artist Mike Swift, the colored map features sites such as Redmen Hall, the Covered Bridge and the Pioneer Church, and the eight Lewis and Clark sites in Wahkiakum County. It has details like elk, kayakers, salmon and logging trucks throughout the image.

Funds for the map came from the Wahkiakum Community Foundation, with coordination from the Wahkiakum Chamber of Commerce.

"The Chamber had been working on finding a replacement for quite some time, but did not have the project in its budget." said Chamber Executive Director Jennifer Johnson. "When we got the call that an anonymous donor, through a Wahkiakum Community Foundation private fund, was willing to donate money to get it done, we were thrilled. It took Mr. Swift several weeks of work to tie-in all the parts of the map that the donor and the Chamber wanted to see included, and we think he did a wonderful job of highlighting our unique county.

"The Chamber feels the map is important for tourism, and helps entice visitors to stay, eat, sleep and play in our region. Soon we will add weather proof brochure racks as well. These will feature lists of our lodging, shopping, dining and recreational opportunities. A heartfelt thank you to all who were involved with this project!"