Washington State's "Triangle of Fire" was part of a broader coastal defense system designed to protect the Salish Sea from military incursion during the late 1800s and early 1900s. And while its name summons visions of an impenetrable barrier, its use in actual military action was minimal - if not nonexistent - becoming essentially obsolete the moment it was completed. Still, Washington's impressive network of forts-turned-state parks add a facet of fascination and fantasy to the lore embedded in our state's storied coastline. I'm Erich Ebel, your fearless field guide to Washington state history, heritage and culture, and on this episode of the podcast, we'll dissect the strategic military defense system established at the turn of the 20th century to protect Puget Sound from naval invasion, and we'll mull over an idea I have that could help reignite public affinity for Washington's Triangle of Fire. Join me at www.Patreon.com/WashingtonOurHome to watch the full episode!

In central Washington, between Grand Coulee Dam and Moses Lake is a place called Dry Falls, one of the most visually beautiful and geologically unique places in the world. It gets its name, not from being one of the hotter, drier climates in Washington - though as any visitor in mid-July would argue it certainly is - No…it's called Dry Falls because where once flowed ten times the combined amount of water of all the rivers in the world…today, there is nothing. In fact, during its peak in the last Ice Age, the massive waterfall was five times the width and three times the height of the famous Niagara Falls. I'm Erich Ebel, your fearless field guide to Washington State history, heritage and culture, and today we'll take a trip to Dry Falls. It's one of my favorite places to visit in all of Washington, and we're going to explore its fascinating history - including a narrative tour through the storied Blue Rhino cave. All that, plus some fast facts and trivia coming up on this episode of Washington Our Home.

Mount Rainier is easily one of the most iconic symbols representing Washington state to the world…even though only two fifths of the state is actually considered mountainous. But as its snow-capped peak rises boldly above the western and central parts of Washington—its serene silhouette belies a history shaped by violent geological forces, mystical Native traditions, stalwart pioneering spirit, and valiant environmental efforts—all culminating in the creation and legacy of Mount Rainier National Park. I'm Erich Ebel, your fearless field guide to Washington state history, heritage and culture, and this is the story of Mount Rainier, right here in Washington, our home.