It is a county of great diversities in climate, topography and
resources. The Skagit river and its branches drain nearly the entire
county from the mountains to the saltwater. Its deltas are great
flat fields of wonderful fertility. Its valleys also, where cleared
of forests, are very rich alluvial lands. Its upper lands carry
a great burden of forests and are full of hidden treasures.

RESOURCES.

The resources of the county are its forests and minerals, its
agricultural products, and fishes. Its great cereal crop is of
oats; hops, fruits, hay and barley follow in the order named in
importance, while the products of the dairy are rapidly multiplying.
Its minerals include the precious metals, iron, lead, coal, marble,
limestone, granite, sandstone, etc.

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TRANSPORTATION.

Aside from its water transportation, the Great Northern and the
Northern Pacific railways cross its westerly end and send a branch
line through the valley of the Skagit river well up towards the
mountains and to the salt water at Anacortes. And other roads are
building, while there are 168 miles of modern graveled wagon roads.
The facilities for getting about are excellent.

PRINCIPAL CITIES AND TOWNS.

MT. VERNON is the county seat, with about 4,000 people. It is on