The first pioneers of Camas and Washougal were primarily farmers, drawn by fertile soil and river transportation. As the paper mill in Camas and the woolen mill in Washougal got their starts, merchants, doctors, and educators followed. These early citizens shaped their new communities as city leaders, school board members, and founders of civic groups. Clarence Bishop purchased a defunct Washougal mill to expand his family's Pendleton Woolen Mill enterprise. Former Camas mayor Nan Henriksen's vision and planning prepared the city to achieve the economic strength it has today. Farmer-turned-businessman Alfred Hathaway generously donated land for a Washougal school and park. Charles Farrell, successful merchant, was the first registered voter in Camas and went on to hold numerous leadership roles. Warmhearted Washougal physician Karl Stefan made house calls until his retirement in the late 1980s. Legendary Locals of Camas and Washougal also features current citizens who carry on the influential tradition of past leaders.
