Northport
Smelter on the Columbia
State: Washington
County: Stevens County
Founded: 1892
Abandoned: 1921 (as smelter town)
Peak Population: 2,000
Northport smelted lead and silver ore, much of it from British Columbia mines. The Le Roi smelter was one of the largest in the Northwest. When the smelter closed, Northport nearly became a complete ghost town.
Smelting Center
The Le Roi smelter processed ore from the Rossland, BC mines. At its peak, the smelter was the region's largest employer.
Near Death
When the smelter closed, Northport collapsed. A few residents remain today.
Timeline
- 1892 - Founded Town established
- 1898 - Smelter Le Roi smelter opened
- 1921 - Smelter Closed Operations ended
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Processed Canadian ore
- On the Columbia River
- A few residents remain
Location
Address: Northport, Washington
Coordinates: 48.9117, -117.7819