Your Guide to Buying a Home in Kennewick, WA

Buying a Home in Kennewick, Washington

The White Bluffs region of the Hanford Reach National Monument

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Kennewick is located in Benton County

Due to its mild winters, local Indians originally referred to this site as Kennewick, or "Winter Heaven". Kennewick was a popular winter camping ground for the Indians as they would fish in the Yakima River and graze their horses in the surrounding hills. The first permanent settlement on this site can trace its origins to the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway in 1883. As the rail system was expanded and a crucial railroad bridge was built, Kennewick was incorporated in 1904. Industry began appearing a few years later with a creamery and grape juice company. Kennewick's population was slow to increase, but this changed with advent of the Second World War. The Hanford Atomic Project in nearby Richland experienced a massive influx of workers, requiring Kennewick to expand its construction of the McNary Dam and the Columbia Basin Irrigation.

Today, Kennewick is still enjoying a continued growth spurt without total dependence on the Hanford Site in Richland, currently owned by the Department of Energy. The combined populations of Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco are referred to as the Tri-Cities region. Overall, this area is among the most exciting growth areas in the Pacific Northwest.

Kennewick has a wonderful array of resources for its residents, including great schools, wonderful shopping and fine dining. Recreational activities range from skiing (10 areas are within 2 hours) to swimming at several local pools and riverfront areas. Kennewick also provides activities that are sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce or various organizations throughout town. A few of these events include the Sunfest Fabulous 50's, 60's & 70's Festival in August and the Tri-Cities Visitor and Convention Bureau Annual Salmon Derby in October. The mild winters can't subdue Kennewick's Christmas spirit as there are several tree lighting and crafts shows celebrating the season.

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