Water has always played a significant role in the settlement, commerce, and recreation of Washington. Rivers and streams meander across the landscape, peaceful lakes provide prime spots for fishing and swimming, dramatic waterfalls thunder over cliffs, and the constant ebb and flow of the tides lap at the state’s western shores. Long before the arrival of roads and railways, the rivers, streams, and water passages served as the transportation network within the area. Canoes, sailing ships, steamships, tugs, fishing boats, and even military ships have graced the waters of Washington. Many communities were built along the water, to take advantage of its rich harvest. Shipbuilding companies, canneries, fisheries, dams, and lighthouses represent the Evergreen State’s intrinsic connection to the water.