History of Covington

1880’s- The North Pacific Railroad commissioned a surveyor named Covington to develop a railroad line between Auburnand Kanasket.  A stop was named for Covington on the railroad line.

1890’s- The Covington Lumber Company was formed at Soos Creek and the North Pacific Railroad.  A 30 foot high dam was built to create a log pond.  Because of an abundance of timber and water, lumbermen were attracted Covington.  The Covington Creek Mill and the mill on Jenkins Creek were built. 

1900’s- Development of Covington continued, a school, store, post office, loan office, feed mill, and fire station were operating.  The Meridian Cemetery was opened with the land being purchased at the steep rate of $5.00 per acre.  Phone service was introduced to Covington for $12.00 a year for the “Farmers Party Line”.
 

1911- The first telephone directory was printed for Covington.

1937- Covington opened its own school district, Number 138.  The school was found on Kent-Black Diamond Road.  On school days, you could hear the bell for miles.  The school and the bell stayed on Kent-Black Diamond Road until the school burnt down.  The bell was refurbished and donated to Covington Elementary School on Wax Road.  It still can be found there today. 

1997- On May 1, the first City Council was sworn in.  It consisted of five men and two women.  On September 13, the city held its Incorporation Celebration. 

August 31, 1997- The City of Covington became an official municipality in the State of Washington.  Population was listed at 12,500.

1998- The City Council commissioned a Housing and Community Development Needs Assessment.

2004- The estimated population of Covington had risen to 15,190.

2007- The estimated population of Covington is now at 17,190 and continuing to rise.