The Chemnapam were the original inhabitants of south central Washington and made their home at the mouth of the Yakima River. The Chemnapam lived here long before Lewis and Clark explored the territory. In 1805 their expedition followed the Columbia River to the Pacific Coast. Their reports of the area's natural resources attracted trappers and traders.

Three rivers-the Yakima, the Snake, and the Columbia-provided access to the region and allowed it to become a major crossroads for both natives and pioneers. Although many travelers passed through the area, it was't until 1863 that the first permanent settlement was founded. By 1880 a stagecoach station had been established, and in 1893 the Benton Land and Water Company began irrigating the land for agricultural purposes.

KENNEWICK -Native for "winter paradise" - blossomed in the late 1800s, when a series of irrigation projects were implemented. Irrigation water nourished the newly planted vineyards and orchards, and agriculture remains an important element of today's economy. Kennewick is the largest of the Tri-Cities.

PASCO is the gateway to nearby Ice Harbor Dam and Sacajawea State Park. Ice Harbor Dam is one of four dams on the lower Snake River allowing barge navigation from the Pacific Ocean to Lewiston, Idaho.

Lake Sacajawea is impounded by the dam and is popular for water sports. The lake's shores provide areas for camping and picnicking. Recreational cruises are available on the Columbia River, and there are developed recreational facilities at Columbia Park on Lake Wallula.

The Tri-Cities Airport, the first commercial airport west of the Mississippi River, is located in Pasco.

RICHLAND became one of the development sites for the atomic bomb in 1944. The Manhattan Department of the Army Corps of Engineers acquired the towns of Richland, Hanford, and White Bluffs in 1943, and by September of the following year, the first Hanford Project reactor was in operation.

THE TRI-CITIES AREA has since evolved into a major technological center. Chemical production and food-processing industries are located here, as are nuclear, medical, and energy- related firms. The series of locks and dams on the Columbia River has allowed the area to become a transportation center at the southern entrance to the Columbia River.

Located at the confluence of the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima rivers, the Tri-Cities of Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland comprise a gateway to a wide variety of recreational areas. The Cascade Mountains to the west and the Blue Mountains to the east have many recreational facilities and contribute to the area's temperate climate. The Tri-Cities enjoy nearly 300 days of sunshine each year. Mild spring weather and plentiful tee times make golf one of the Tri-Cities' most popular sports. Seven local courses include a range of terrain to challenge experienced and beginning golfers. A new par-72 desert course opened in May 1995. Many hotels are adjacent to or within minutes of a course, and some offer special golf packages as well. The Tri-Cities is home to Sandvik Special Metals, makers of the famous Ti-Shaft golf clubs. Sailing, boating, water-skiing, swimming, fishing and windsurfing are also very popular. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of nearly 20 miles (30 km) of well-maintained riverfront paths-- perfect for bicycling, jogging or a casual sunset stroll. There are also seven museums and visitor centers in the area offering historical perspectives, artifacts, hands-on displays and interactive exhibits. The Tri-Cities also offer a subscription series of professional dance, instrumental, and vocal concerts.

The Columbia Basin Irrigation Project made possible the Tri-Cities' second- largest industry, agriculture. The Pasco Farmers Market, open May through November, is the largest fresh produce market in the state. You can buy direct from the farmer and find unique crafts and collectibles in over 20 shops. The region also boasts over 25 award-winning wineries within a 50-mile (80 km) radius. Spring and summer events include a kite festival, a Cinco de Mayo event barrel tastings, a major children's festival, a country music festival on the banks of the Columbia River and one of the largest art shows on the West Coast. Contact the Tri- Cities Visitor and Convention Bureau for complete event and visitor information.

Sources: GTE Phone Directory, Tri-Cities Visitor's Guide, Washington State Field Guide

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