"In August 1879, Robert Robb, county superintendent of schools, roamed the county by foot and on horseback and recorded his observations. The 'ridge road' (now Mill Plain road) east from Vancouver cut through a forest of thick firs, then suddenly burst out into a fertile plain, he reported. 'This is an area of fine houses and barns, thrifty orchards and blooming gardens. This area has been truly blessed by nature.'" —The Columbian