Bremerton Washington Oakes Photo Company Early City View from St James Hotel 1910s Real Photo Postcard

Bremerton, Washington, was established in 1891 by William Bremer, following the selection of its deep-water harbor on Sinclair Inlet for the Puget Sound Naval Station (later Puget Sound Naval Shipyard). Incorporated as a city in 1901, Bremerton quickly grew around the naval presence, becoming a critical support community for maritime operations. The St. James Hotel, from which this perspective was taken, was a notable early establishment, providing lodging and services essential for the burgeoning city's population.