Incorporated in 1912, the Puget Sound Traction, Light & Power Company (PSTLP) was a major early 20th-century utility holding company in Washington state, controlled by Stone & Webster. It consolidated various streetcar, interurban railway, and electric power companies—including the Seattle Electric Company—before renaming itself Puget Sound Power & Light in 1919 and later becoming Puget Sound Energy.
Key Historical Aspects:
Formation and Control: Formed to unify diverse transit and electric interests, the company was managed by Boston-based Stone & Webster, with local leadership from banker Jacob Furth.
Operations: The company operated extensive interurban railways connecting Seattle to Tacoma, Everett, and other areas, while also providing electricity.
Transition to Utility Focus: As automobile use increased, the company shifted focus from transportation to power distribution. In 1918–1919, they sold their, by then bankrupt, Seattle streetcar lines to the city.
Legacy: The company was reorganized in the 1930s following federal regulations. It continued to operate as Puget Sound Power & Light ("Puget Power") until merging with Washington Natural Gas in 1997 to become Puget Sound Energy (PSE).
Region Served: Primarily served the Puget Sound region, including Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellingham.