Community History

Goldendale, Washington is located on a fertile plateau about 120 miles East of Portland, Oregon. The largest city in Klickitat County as well as the county seat, the city is a hub for the rich agricultural area it serves. The city obtained its start as a watering stop on the Yakima-Okanogan Wagon Trail. In fact, wagon ruts are still easily deciphered on the Columbia Hills the south of Goldendale, leading out of the Columbia River Gorge and into the Centerville Valley.

A cattleman named Mortimer Thorp first settled the site of Goldendale in the late 1850's. When Thorp abandoned his location (when 2-3 other families settled, Thorp is said to have observed "the area was becoming too populated"), the homestead was taken up by Lyonel J. Kimberland who later sold to John J. Golden. The Town of Goldendale was officially formed on March 13, 1872.

Goldendale grew steadily with the demands of the region settlers from 1870- 1880. The typical western town of frame buildings hurriedly erected was beginning to feel substantial when tragedy struck. On a hot Sunday afternoon early in the 20th century, while most citizens were a few miles away on a picnic, fire broke out at the west end of Main street. Fanned by strong west winds, it raced from building to building, stopping only when no more structures were in its path. Approximately 85% of the buildings were destroyed in the blaze. The town was rebuilt thereafter in brick and many of the buildings stand today on Main Street as a testament to those times.

Historically, Goldendale has been a farming and timber community. These industries were supported by the railroad, which rolled into town on April 25, 1903. Next came roads to accommodate the growing popularity of the automobile. It would take another 30 years to secure paved roads to the Yakima Valley although the City was one of the first to have paved sidewalks and roads by 1911.

Today, Goldendale is still largely an agricultural community with a population hovering around 3,000. The climate in the region is moderate with an average annual temperature of 48.7 degrees Fahrenheit and a mean annual precipitation of 16.22 inches. The beautiful natural surroundings, moderate climate, affordable cost of living, and relative proximity to major metropolitan areas makes Goldendale attractive choice for retirees as well as outdoor enthusiasts.