On historical maps of Kennewick, one will see the original downtown and the location of many of Kennewick’s first buildings. The town was built on a flood plain and was subject to annual flooding. Eventually dams and dikes were constructed by the Bonneville Power Authority to prevent this devastation. South of Kennewick is a low plateau before the two ridges of Horse Heaven Hills. Likewise, west of the downtown area is a gradual lift to a higher elevation. This area has always been known as West Highlands because it is higher elevated lands than the lower flood plain. Many of the new construction since the 1960’s incorporated the Highlands name.
1. Hi-Land Drive-In and Highlands Center
Beginning at the corner of US 395 and Clearwater was an outdoor movie theater call HI-Land Drive-In. It operated from 1940 to 1976.
2. West Highlands Methodist Church
Turning south on Union for two blocks at the first of five roundabouts is West Highlands Methodist Church. For the first eight years or so starting in 1948 the members met for Sunday School in the basement of a house. The current church was completed in 1959 and added onto in 1999. The church was built on land that was once a cherry orchard. The first pastor was Rev. David Beadles.
3. Highlands Middle School
Continue south on Union and travel a half mile or so to 4th Ave, you will be in sight of Highlands Middle School. The school was built in 1959, remodeled in 1994. It started out as a Junior High school but because of overcrowding in the late 60’s, sixth grader were moved in and 9th graders moved out. The school teaches 900 students a year. Jack Frisk was the first principal and Richard E. Kernighan Vice-Principal.
There are many other Highlands or variation of the name in the area.
See images of Downtown Kennewick Flood 1926 and 1917 West Highlands Map
The cache was placed with the permission from the owner. The container accommodates small tokens. Bring your own pen.