Slice of frontier Scandinavia in view; historic Tharald homestead tour

Renowned for its "Nordic" style architecture, the Tharald Homestead embodies an era of early Scandinavian settlement in Washington state and owns a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Protected by a Land Bank historic preservation easement, the pioneer-era farm on the west side of San Juan Island has long been touted as one of the best and oldest examples of its kind in San Juan County.

September 12, 2013 6:41 pm
A view of the south side of Shaw Island's historic Tharald homestead.
A view of the south side of Shaw Island's historic Tharald homestead.

It’s one of the best kept historic secrets in San Juan County.

But not for long.

Shaw Island’s Tharald Homestead will take center stage as the San Juan County Land Bank throws open the doors and the grounds of historic home in a guided tour led by local architectural historian Boyd Pratt, Saturday, Sept. 14.

Renowned for its “Nordic” style architecture, the Tharald Homestead embodies an era of early Scandinavian settlement in Washington state and owns a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Protected by a Land Bank historic preservation easement, the pioneer-era farm on the west side of San Juan Island has long been touted as one of the best and oldest examples of its kind in San Juan County.

Tour-goers will meet in the parking area of Shaw Island School at 1 p.m.

For information on the tour and driving directions contact Boyd Pratt, 378-7172, or, email mulnocove@gmail.com