- BRIEF LOOK IN HISTORY -

 

Hi there, we wanted to welcome you to the beautiful waterfront venue known as "The River House"! This beloved historic building was built in the early 1900’s and then renovated by the Corson family in 2006 with the hope of bringing more people into the picturesque town of Index, Washington. As the Corson family pursued this adventurous restoration, they learned that this town was not only a hub for their adventures, but it was also full of history and beauty. 

 

 

Unfortunately many people are unaware of Washington’s hidden gem tucked into the Cascade Mountains. Named for the mountain resembling an index finger towering over the town, Index was booming with mining and logging in the late 1800s. By striking gold, silver, copper and minerals, as well as collecting granite and lumber, Index continued to be fueled and grown by prospectors and settlers into the early 1900s.

 

 

A few decades later, the population began to dwindle due to changes in the economy and the Great Depression of the 1930s. The town took another blow in 1939 when a spark from a nearby train caused a devastating forest fire that scorched many homes and wooden framed commercial buildings and left only a few standing. Among these commercial buildings are the Bush House Hotel (which is currently undergoing renovation), Redmen’s Wigwam and the former Holcome & Holcome Meat Market and Sporting Goods/Index Tavern (now known as The River House). In the wake of these trying events, Index decreased in size immensely leaving the town with little population and growth.

 

 

With so much history and stories at the core of this beautiful building and town, the Corson family sought to use this renovation of The River House to share it with everyone. To this very day, you can see the cork screw holes in the floor from the boots the loggers wore when they came in to get a drink. From the simplicity of the structure to the original wood floors and tavern bar, the Corson family sought to maintain the integrity of the building throughout the renovation so that people like you might come enjoy yourself and experiance the history of Index.  

 

 

Over one hundred years old, this historic venue is a perfect blend of rustic elegance and endless charm. Surrounded by the jagged snowcapped mountains, an emerald flowing river, and magnificent granite cliffs, this venue lies peacefully along the banks of the pristine North Fork of the Skykomish River and backdrops your event with the gorgouse Mt. Index. Whether it’s your wedding day or a small family gathering, this venue is absolutely a perfect fit for those desiring to partake in history, take in stunning scenery, and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere filled with unforgettable memories!