History of Asotin County, Washington
Asotin County, located in the southeastern corner of Washington State, has a rich and diverse history shaped by indigenous peoples, early exploration, and settlement. Established in 1883, the county is named after the Asotin Creek, which in turn takes its name from the Nez Perce word “Asotín,” meaning “the place of the big fish.” With its proximity to the Snake River and the Columbia Plateau, Asotin County has long been a hub for trade, agriculture, and industry. Today, it is known for its natural beauty, agricultural richness, and historical significance in the Pacific Northwest.
Origins and Early History
Asotin County’s history begins long before European settlers arrived. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, most notably the Nez Perce, who lived along the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. The Nez Perce were known for their skilled fishing, hunting, and farming practices. They used the region’s rivers for transportation and relied on the abundant fish populations, particularly salmon, for sustenance. The Snake River, which forms much of the county’s eastern border, was crucial to their way of life, providing a rich source of food and trade.
The first European explorers to reach the area were the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. As they traveled along the Snake River, they encountered the Nez Perce, who guided them through the rugged terrain and provided them with food. This initial contact set the stage for future exploration and settlement by Europeans in the region. However, the early years of interaction were marked by both cooperation and conflict, as settlers began to encroach upon native lands.
In the early 19th century, the Lewis and Clark Expedition and subsequent fur-trading posts opened the region to increased exploration. By the 1830s and 1840s, the Hudson’s Bay Company established a fur trading post at Fort Nez Perce near present-day Walla Walla, Washington. While the fort itself was located across the Snake River in what is now Washington, it was an important point of contact for settlers and indigenous people in the Asotin County area.
The expansion of the American frontier into the Pacific Northwest in the mid-1800s led to increased settlement in the region. The area became part of the Washington Territory when it was established in 1853. As settlers moved in, conflicts with the indigenous tribes escalated, culminating in the Nez Perce War of 1877, which had a significant impact on the region. In this conflict, Chief Joseph and his people famously fought against U.S. military forces as they tried to escape to Canada. Though the Nez Perce were ultimately defeated, their resistance remains a key part of the area’s historical narrative.
Establishment of Asotin County
Asotin County was officially created on November 28, 1883, when the Washington State Legislature established the county by separating it from parts of Garfield County. The county’s name was derived from the Nez Perce word for “the place of the big fish,” referencing the salmon-rich rivers that flowed through the area. The county seat was established in the city of Asotin, located near the mouth of Asotin Creek, a tributary of the Snake River.
Early settlement in Asotin County was heavily influenced by agriculture. The region’s fertile soil and access to water from the Snake River made it an ideal location for farming. The settlers primarily grew wheat, barley, and fruit, which were transported to larger markets by steamboats along the river. The completion of the railroad in the late 1800s further facilitated transportation and contributed to the county’s economic development.
By the turn of the 20th century, Asotin County had a growing population, though it remained largely rural. The county experienced the same challenges as other agricultural regions, including economic fluctuations, droughts, and labor shortages. However, the establishment of irrigation systems in the early 1900s helped stabilize farming in the region, allowing crops to thrive even during dry periods. Over the years, Asotin County’s economy grew with the expansion of agriculture, logging, and some small-scale manufacturing.
Early 20th Century Development
The early 20th century brought significant economic and infrastructural growth to Asotin County. The construction of the Lewiston Hill Grade, which provided a link between Lewiston, Idaho, and Asotin, was a key development, improving transportation and encouraging trade between Washington and Idaho. This period also saw the development of the county’s agricultural economy, as more settlers moved in to work the land.
The growth of the timber industry in the region also provided new economic opportunities. The forests surrounding the county became a valuable resource, and logging quickly became an important industry. The county’s timber resources were harvested and processed into lumber, which was used in construction and shipped to markets throughout the Pacific Northwest.
By the mid-20th century, Asotin County had become a stable agricultural and industrial hub, although it remained a relatively small and rural community. The county continued to rely on agriculture, logging, and small manufacturing as its primary economic drivers. However, the region also faced challenges during the Great Depression, with many local farmers and businesses struggling due to falling agricultural prices and widespread unemployment.
Post-World War II Era to Present
In the post-World War II era, Asotin County, like much of the United States, experienced significant economic and demographic changes. The agricultural economy continued to play a vital role in the county’s development, but industrialization and urbanization led to shifts in the local workforce. Many young people left the area in search of jobs in larger cities, leaving behind an aging population in rural areas.
By the 1960s and 1970s, the county began to experience suburbanization, with more residents moving to the area from nearby cities like Lewiston and Pullman, Washington. The development of modern highways and increased access to urban areas encouraged growth in the county’s residential population. Asotin County also became a popular area for retirees due to its natural beauty, affordable land, and proximity to the Snake River.
Today, Asotin County’s economy remains primarily agricultural, with farming, ranching, and logging continuing to play important roles. The county has also become a destination for outdoor recreation, particularly for boating, fishing, and hiking, thanks to its access to the Snake River and surrounding forests. Despite these changes, Asotin County has managed to maintain its small-town charm and rural character.
Historical Sites in Asotin County
Asotin County is home to several historical sites that reflect its diverse history and cultural heritage. From Native American history to the legacy of early settlers, these sites provide a glimpse into the past of this fascinating region.
1. Asotin County Historical Society Museum
Overview: The Asotin County Historical Society Museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the county, with exhibits focused on the Nez Perce, early settlers, agriculture, and the region’s role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that help tell the story of the county’s past.
Location: 120 2nd St., Asotin, WA 99402
Ticket Price: Free (donations accepted)
Parking Information: Free parking available nearby.
2. Lewis and Clark Discovery Trail
Overview: The Lewis and Clark Discovery Trail follows the route of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which passed through the region in 1805. The trail includes several interpretive signs and markers that explain the journey of the explorers and their interactions with the Nez Perce people.
Location: Various locations along the Snake River in Asotin County
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Parking available at various trailheads and historical markers along the route.
3. Nez Perce National Historical Park
Overview: Located just outside Asotin County, the Nez Perce National Historical Park commemorates the history and culture of the Nez Perce people. The park includes sites of historical significance, including battlefields, villages, and the areas where Chief Joseph’s band of Nez Perce fought during the Nez Perce War of 1877.
Location: 37451 Highway 95, Spalding, ID 83540 (about 10 miles from Asotin)
Ticket Price: Free (donations accepted)
Parking Information: Free parking available at the visitor center.
4. Asotin Creek Wildlife Area
Overview: The Asotin Creek Wildlife Area is a protected area that offers visitors a chance to explore the county’s natural beauty. The site is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, and numerous bird species. It also provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and photography.
Location: Off Asotin Creek Road, Asotin, WA
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Parking available at the trailhead.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Asotin County is located in the southeastern corner of Washington State, bordered by Idaho to the east and Oregon to the south. The county covers an area of 636 square miles and is primarily characterized by its rugged terrain, including steep hills and valleys. The Snake River, which forms the eastern boundary of the county, is a prominent geographic feature, providing both natural beauty and vital resources for the region.
The climate in Asotin County is classified as semi-arid, with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F (32°C), while winter temperatures can drop to below freezing. The area receives about 10-15 inches of precipitation annually, with most rainfall occurring in the winter months.
Key County Facts
- Year Founded: 1883
- County Seat: Asotin
- Population: Approximately 22,000 (as of 2020)
- Population Density: 34 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Asotin, Clarkston
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 12, Washington State Route 129
- Adjacent Counties: Nez Perce County (ID), Clearwater County (ID), Garfield County (WA), Whitman County (WA)