1. On August 11, 1973, the largest fire in the history of the state of Washington began in the Wenatchee National Forest. The fire burned over 470,000 acres and destroyed over 100 homes.

2. On August 11, 1997, Seattle Mariners outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. hit his 41st home run of the season, setting a new franchise record for most home runs in a single season. Griffey finished the season with 56 home runs and won his fourth straight American League Gold Glove award.

3. August 11, 1999, marked the opening of the Experience Music Project Museum in Seattle. The museum, designed by architect Frank Gehry, is dedicated to the history and exploration of popular music and culture.

4. On August 11, 1981, the city of Tacoma was hit by an F3 tornado. The tornado caused extensive damage to homes and businesses, but miraculously no one was killed.

5. August 11, 1955, saw the opening of the Space Needle in Seattle. The iconic structure, standing at over 600 feet tall, has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States.