Walla Walla, Washington

Walla Walla is the both the county seat of Walla Walla County, Washington, USA, and the county's largest city. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 29,686{{GR|6}}. Walla Walla is in the southeastern region of Washington, approximately 4.5 hours by car from Seattle, Washington and six miles (10 km) from the Oregon border.

History

On September 1, 1836, Narcissa Whitman, one of the first white women to settle west of the Rocky Mountains, arrived at Walla Walla, along with her husband Marcus Whitman. Here they established the Whitman Mission in an unsuccessful attempt to convert the local Walla Walla tribe. Both were killed by natives following a disease epidemic. Whitman College was established in their honor.

Related Topics:
September 1 - 1836 - Narcissa Whitman - Rocky Mountains - Marcus Whitman - Walla Walla - Whitman College

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Walla Walla was officially incorporated on January 11, 1862. As a result of a gold rush, during this decade the city became the largest community in the territory of Washington. Following this period, agriculture became the city's primary industry.

Related Topics:
January 11 - 1862

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Though wheat is still a big crop, vineyards and wineries have become economically important. Leonetti Cellars was one of the first wineries in Walla Walla and produces sought after merlot and cabernet sauvignon. In summer 2005, there were 64 wineries in the greater Walla Walla area.

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