The Lake Washington Shipyard operated in Houghton — now the southern end of Kirkland — from the early 20th century through the post-war period. During World War II it became a significant naval construction facility, producing patrol vessels and support craft for the Pacific fleet. The industry has since vanished and the lakeshore is now residential, but the site is part of Kirkland's forgotten industrial history.
No physical remnants of the shipyard survive in accessible form, but the site is documented at the Kirkland Heritage Society and the story of wartime production on Lake Washington's quiet suburban shore is worth knowing for context. The contrast with the upscale lakefront properties now occupying the Houghton shoreline is striking.
The Burke-Gilman Trail passes through Houghton and the waterfront here remains pleasant for walking and cycling, with views across the lake toward Medina and Bellevue. Houghton Beach Park, a short distance north of the former shipyard site, has good swimming in summer.