George Vancouver was an important explorer of Puget Sound. He served for 25 years in the British Navy, and commanded the Discovery on her expedition to the North Pacific. In April 1792, George Vancouver entered the Strait of Juan de Fuca and commenced his exploration of Puget Sound. He named every island, mountain, waterway, and point of land in sight -- 75 in all.
Vancouver was the youngest of five children in a well-to-do family from King's Lynn, Norfolk, England. His career began at age 15 (some sources say 13) as an able-bodied seaman aboard James Cook's ship, Resolution.
In October 1780, after passing his examination, he received a lieutenant's commission. Nine years later, he was second in command under Captain Henry Roberts aboard the ship Europa. Vancouver was given command of the Discovery in December 1790 on her expedition to the North Pacific.
In April 1792, George Vancouver entered the Strait of Juan de Fuca and commenced his exploration of Puget Sound. He named every island, mountain, waterway, and point of land in sight, including previously recorded Spanish landmarks. In May, Lieutenant Peter Puget, under Vancouver's orders, explored more remote western channels, while Vancouver surveyed south of Bainbridge Island's Restoration Point.
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