This week I went to the San Juan Island in Washington Sate.
The San Juan Island has a rich history dating back to the Salish people who lived on the island for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. In 1859, a border dispute between the United States and Great Britain erupted on San Juan Island, known as the Pig War. The dispute centered on whether the island belonged to the United States or Great Britain. Both countries sent troops to the island, and a standoff ensued, which lasted for several months until a diplomatic solution was reached.
The island is also known for its natural beauty and unique flora. One of the most significant plants on the island is the Camas flower, which is a staple food for the Coast Salish people. The Camas flower has a rich purple-blue color and blooms in the spring. The bulbs of the Camas flower were an important source of carbohydrates and were traditionally harvested and roasted in pit ovens. The Camas flower is still an important symbol of the island’s history and is sought after by many hikers, including us.
While on the island, we stayed with my great-aunt and uncle at their beautiful home near False Bay. Though a little jet-lagged, we enjoyed the trip thoroughly.