History of Benton County, Washington

Benton County, Washington, located in the southeastern part of the state, has a rich history shaped by its Indigenous peoples, European settlers, and its pivotal role in the development of the region’s agricultural and industrial economy. Established in 1859, Benton County was named after Thomas Hart Benton, a U.S. senator and advocate for westward expansion. The county’s early history is tied to the growth of agriculture, particularly wheat and later fruit crops, and its proximity to the Columbia River made it an important transportation and trade hub. Today, Benton County is known for its contributions to science, agriculture, and industry, with a rich tapestry of historical sites that tell the story of its growth.

Origins of Benton County

Indigenous Peoples and Early Settlement

Before European settlers arrived, Benton County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, primarily the Yakama, Walla Walla, and Cayuse tribes. The region’s fertile soil and access to the Columbia River provided ample resources for these Indigenous peoples. They lived in villages along the riverbanks and used the Columbia for fishing, transportation, and trade. The tribes relied on salmon fishing, hunting, and gathering for sustenance, with the river serving as both a food source and a key route for cultural exchange.

The arrival of European settlers in the early 19th century disrupted the Indigenous way of life. The Lewis and Clark Expedition, which passed through the region in 1805-1806, was one of the first significant Western encounters with the area. Over the next several decades, more settlers arrived, leading to the displacement of the Indigenous tribes. The Yakama Nation, whose lands were located in the area, signed the Yakama Treaty in 1855, which ceded large portions of their territory to the U.S. government. These treaties were often contentious, and the tribes’ way of life was significantly altered by the influx of settlers.

History of Benton County, Washington

Establishment of Benton County

Benton County was officially formed in 1859 from a portion of Walla Walla County. Its name honors Thomas Hart Benton, a U.S. senator from Missouri who was a staunch advocate for the expansion of the United States to the Pacific Coast. Benton County’s early economy centered around agriculture and the development of infrastructure to support the growing population.

Rich in natural resources, Benton County’s landscape was ideal for agriculture. The fertile soil, particularly along the banks of the Columbia River, made it perfect for growing crops like wheat, fruit, and vegetables. The development of irrigation systems in the late 19th and early 20th centuries allowed farmers to expand crop production, which spurred the county’s economic growth.

Growth of Agriculture and Irrigation

The arrival of irrigation technology in the late 1800s marked a turning point for Benton County. The construction of the Columbia Basin Project in the mid-20th century helped transform the region into a major agricultural center. Crops such as wheat, corn, grapes, and apples flourished, and Benton County became a leading producer of these commodities in Washington State. The region’s mild climate and access to irrigation systems made it one of the most productive agricultural areas in the Pacific Northwest.

Agriculture continues to be a cornerstone of Benton County’s economy, particularly in the production of wine grapes. The wine industry, which began in the 1960s, has grown significantly in Benton County, with the Columbia Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area) encompassing much of the county. As of today, Benton County is home to a thriving wine industry, with numerous vineyards and wineries, many of which have gained national and international acclaim.

Key Historical Events

The Role of the Columbia River and Railroads

The Columbia River has long played a crucial role in the development of Benton County. Early settlers used the river for transportation of goods and people, and it became a central part of the region’s economy. The Columbia River was vital for the shipment of agricultural products, particularly wheat, to other parts of the United States. This importance grew during the 20th century as new infrastructure, including dams, were constructed to harness the power of the river for irrigation and hydroelectric power.

The construction of the railroad in the late 19th century also had a significant impact on Benton County’s growth. The railroad enabled farmers to transport their goods to broader markets, stimulating the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the region in the 1880s helped connect Benton County to larger cities in Washington and beyond, contributing to the county’s commercial expansion.

The Manhattan Project and the Hanford Site

One of the most significant events in Benton County’s history was the establishment of the Hanford Site during World War II. In 1943, the U.S. government selected the area for the construction of a nuclear production facility as part of the Manhattan Project. This secretive program aimed to develop atomic weapons during the war. The construction of the Hanford Site required the relocation of many families and the establishment of a massive workforce, including workers from all over the country.

The Hanford Site became the home of the world’s first large-scale plutonium production facility, which contributed to the creation of the atomic bomb. The facility produced plutonium for the first nuclear weapons tests and for the bomb dropped on Nagasaki, Japan. The legacy of the Hanford Site continues today, with ongoing efforts to clean up the environmental contamination caused by decades of nuclear production. The site remains a significant part of Benton County’s history, both for its contributions to the war effort and its long-lasting impact on the environment.

Post-War Economic Development

After the war, Benton County experienced significant economic growth, driven in part by the presence of the Hanford Site. The post-war period saw the growth of industries such as manufacturing, food processing, and technology, many of which were directly or indirectly linked to the nuclear industry. The county’s economy also diversified as agriculture continued to thrive, particularly with the rise of the wine industry in the 1960s.

In the second half of the 20th century, Benton County’s population grew steadily. Cities like Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco became more urbanized, and the Tri-Cities area began to develop as a regional hub for commerce, education, and science. The economy of Benton County shifted from being primarily agricultural to becoming a more diversified economy with industries such as nuclear energy, high-tech manufacturing, and research institutions.

Historical Sites in Benton County

1. The Hanford Reach National Monument

Overview:

The Hanford Reach National Monument is a vast protected area in Benton County that was designated to preserve the ecological and historical significance of the Hanford Reach, the last free-flowing stretch of the Columbia River. The site includes both natural and historical landmarks, including remnants of the Manhattan Project and wildlife refuges. The monument is home to various species of plants and animals, and it is a popular spot for birdwatching, hiking, and fishing.

Location:

The Hanford Reach National Monument is located along the Columbia River, north of the Tri-Cities area in Benton County, Washington.

Ticket Price:

Free to visit.

Parking Information:

Visitors can park at designated access points along the monument’s boundaries, with parking areas available for those wishing to explore the trails and natural habitats.

2. Columbia Park

Overview:

Columbia Park, located in Kennewick, is a historical and recreational site that offers beautiful views of the Columbia River. The park has been a central location for local events and gatherings for decades, and it features a museum, walking trails, and a large boat launch. The park’s proximity to the Columbia River and its scenic beauty make it a significant historical and cultural site in Benton County.

Location:

Columbia Park is located in Kennewick, Washington, along the Columbia River.

Ticket Price:

Free to visit.

Parking Information:

The park has ample parking, with designated spaces near the walking trails, picnic areas, and boat launch.

3. Franklin County Historical Museum

Overview:

The Franklin County Historical Museum in Pasco is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the Tri-Cities region, including Benton County. The museum features exhibits on local Indigenous history, the region’s agricultural heritage, and the development of the nuclear industry. Visitors can explore artifacts from the early days of settlement, the World War II era, and the Cold War period.

Location:

The Franklin County Historical Museum is located at 305 N 4th Ave, Pasco, Washington.

Ticket Price:

Adults: $5, Children (12 and under): Free.

Parking Information:

Parking is available near the museum, with public parking lots located on nearby streets.

4. Benton County Historical Museum

Overview:

The Benton County Historical Museum, located in Prosser, offers a comprehensive look at the history of Benton County from its earliest Indigenous inhabitants to the present day. The museum features exhibits on the agricultural development of the county, the role of the Columbia River in shaping local trade, and the significance of the Hanford Site. It is a great place to learn about Benton County’s rich past and its cultural heritage.

Location:

The Benton County Historical Museum is located at 205 S 4th St, Prosser, Washington.

Ticket Price:

Adults: $5, Seniors: $4, Children: Free.

Parking Information:

Free parking is available on-site and in surrounding areas.

Geography and Climate of Benton County

Geography:

Benton County is located in the southeastern part of Washington, bordered by the Columbia River to the north. The county covers approximately 1,700 square miles and features a combination of river valleys, agricultural land, and desert landscapes. The county is part of the larger Columbia Basin, which is known for its fertile soil and irrigated farming. The region is relatively flat, with gentle rolling hills and wide expanses of open land. Benton County’s proximity to the Columbia River makes it an important location for water-based recreation, as well as for agriculture and transportation.

Climate:

Benton County has a semi-arid climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Summers typically see temperatures ranging from 80°F to 100°F, with very little rainfall. Winters are cold, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 40°F, and snow is occasional but not particularly heavy. The county receives an average of 7-9 inches of rainfall annually, with most of the precipitation occurring in the winter months. The combination of abundant sunshine and a dry climate makes Benton County an ideal location for agriculture, particularly in the production of crops like wheat, apples, and grapes.

County Facts

  • Year Founded: 1859
  • County Seat: Prosser
  • Population: Approximately 225,000
  • Population Density: 130 people per square mile
  • Largest Cities: Kennewick, Richland, Pasco
  • Major Highways: Interstate 82, U.S. Highway 12, State Route 240
  • Adjacent Counties: Franklin County, Yakima County, Walla Walla County, Klickitat County

Benton County, Washington, is a region of historical significance, with a rich legacy that spans Indigenous cultures, European settlement, and the pivotal role played by the Hanford Site during the Manhattan Project. Today, the county stands as a dynamic blend of agriculture, industry, and recreation, with numerous historical sites and landmarks that offer a glimpse into the region’s fascinating past. From its early settlers to its modern contributions to science and technology, Benton County remains a vital part of Washington State’s history.