Leschi (steam ferry)

The Leschi was a steam-powered passenger ferry that operated on Puget Sound in Washington State during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Built in 1889, it was named after Chief Leschi, a Nisqually tribal leader. The Leschi played a significant role in the development of transportation and commerce in the Puget Sound region, connecting various communities and islands. It was known for its reliability and its service on routes connecting Seattle with points across the Sound, including Vashon Island, Bainbridge Island, and other destinations. The vessel eventually became outdated and was retired from service. While the original Leschi no longer exists, its name has been reused for a modern Washington State Ferry, ensuring the historical connection to both Chief Leschi and the earlier steam ferry are remembered. The original Leschi represented an era of steam-powered transportation crucial to the growth of the Puget Sound region.