Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Zillah, WA - 100 Years in the Yakima Valley

The Yakima Valley consists of a number of towns, from the larger cities of Yakima and Prosser to the smaller towns of Union Gap, Toppenish, Zillah, Selah, Wapato, Sunnyside, Granger, Grandview and Benton City. Each of these cities and country towns is unique.

Zillah, WA would still be arid desert land and not the thriving agricultural community it is today without the Sunnyside Irrigation Project. This project, started by Walter Granger in the 1890's, allowed water to be taken from the Yakima River and distributed to the land using canals, which are still in use today. Walter Granger and Thomas Oakes of the Northern Pacific Railroad chose the town site, which was named after Oakes daughter, Zillah. The town site was selected in 1892 and the town was incorporated in 1911. Historical information will be on display in the Zillah Civic Center during Community Days. A site of historical interest to visit is the Zillah Teapot Gas Station built in 1922.

Today the city of Zillah is in the heart of Washington Wine Country the the Yakima Valley. Growing vast acres in vineyards in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA.The wineries are surrounded by vineyards and orchards and range from small boutique to larger estate wineries, each with owners tending the tasting bars. The views of Mt. Adams across the valley floor are spectacular. This is the place where one can relax with a true wine country experience.

Zillah Events: 
Traditional country, small town celebrations, reminiscent of a simpler era
Zillah, celebrates its Community Days during mid-May.  In an area known for its orchards, vineyards and the Rattlesnake Hills AVA wineries, you can expect a parade, talent show, fireworks display, sack races, face painting, egg toss, horseshoe toss, and more.

Zillah's Harvest Celebration,  Not Just a Farmers Market, occurs annually the Saturday after Labor Day in downtown Zillah. Forty to sixty vendors sell local produce, wood furniture, arts and crafts, food, and many unique items.   There is live entertainment all day long which varies from bands to dance groups.

The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.


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