Newton Jessie Aiken played an important role in the story of Olympia education. Before his long-lasting career as an economics professor at Washington State University, Aiken served as principal of Olympia High School from 1910 to 1918. He oversaw a period of great growth in the school’s history.
Goldie Robertson Funk was writer active in Olympia's women’s club movement in the early 20th century and was prolifically published throughout her career.
Late 19th-century visitors to downtown Olympia could treat themselves to a delicious pan roast of fresh Olympia oysters at Doane’s Oyster House. Their memorable host was a retired sea captain and living legend, Captain W. J. Doane.