History of the Stratford Area

Grant County, Washington, located in the central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Wanapum, Yakama, and Moses-Columbia. These tribes relied on the Columbia River for fishing and trade, and their presence in the region dates back at least 10,000 years.

The first European explorers to visit the area were fur traders in the early 1800s. In the mid-19th century, settlers began to establish permanent communities in Grant County. The discovery of gold in nearby areas attracted prospectors and miners to the region, leading to the establishment of mining towns such as Peshastin and Conconully. The completion of the Northern Pacific Railway in the late 1800s further fueled growth, connecting Grant County to the rest of Washington and facilitating trade and transportation.

Irrigation played a crucial role in the development of Grant County. In the early 1900s, visionary leaders recognized the potential of the Columbia Basin for agriculture and pushed for the construction of irrigation systems. The Columbia Basin Project, initiated in the 1930s, involved building dams and canals to distribute water from the Columbia River. This transformed arid desert lands into fertile farmland, allowing agricultural industries like fruit orchards, wheat farms, and vegetable crops to flourish.

Over the years, Grant County has continued to grow and diversify its economy. The construction of the Grand Coulee Dam on the Columbia River brought hydroelectric power and jobs to the region in the 1930s. The dam remains an iconic symbol of Grant County and provides clean and renewable energy to millions of people. Today, Grant County is known for its diverse agricultural production, recreational opportunities on the Columbia River, and as a hub for renewable energy, including wind and solar power.

Grant County's history is shaped by its natural resources, the vision of its early settlers, and its continuous adaptation to changing economic and environmental conditions. From its Native American roots to its development as an agricultural and energy powerhouse, Grant County's history is a testament to resilience and innovation.