Driving Through Colville, Washington

Colville: Bridging History and Progress

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Stevens County, Washington, the city of Colville stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of a community rooted in history. As the county seat of Stevens County, Colville has been witness to the ebb and flow of time, from the establishment of Fort Colvile in 1825 to the vibrant city it is today.
A Tapestry of History

In the annals of Washington's history, the establishment of Fort Colvile was a pivotal moment. John Work, an agent for The Hudson's Bay Company, laid the foundations near Kettle Falls in 1825, replacing previous trading posts in the region. Named after Hudson's Bay Company governor Andrew Colvile, the fort played a central role in the mining and transportation activities linked to the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush of the 1850s.

As the 19th century progressed, the Oregon boundary dispute loomed large, eventually finding resolution in the Oregon Treaty of 1846. This treaty established the 49th Parallel as the new boundary between Canada and the United States, a mere forty miles north of present-day Colville.
A Shifting Landscape

In 1859, a new Fort Colville was established at Pinkney City, Washington, three miles northeast of Colville's present location. However, by 1882, this fort was abandoned. With the resolution of Hudson's Bay Company land claims, Governor Edward Selig Salomon directed the acceptance of lands extending south to Orin-Rice Road, including areas now within the bounds of Colville.
The Birth of Colville

With the planned closure of the old Fort Colville, businesses and buildings transitioned to the present location in the Colville River Valley. In January 1883, W. F. Hooker filed the first plat in Stevens County under the name "Belmont" or "Bellmond," later changed to Colville to facilitate the relocation of the county seat. On January 1, 1884, the Stevens County courthouse officially moved to Colville, marking the city's official inception.
A Beacon in the Cold War

The 1950s ushered in the Colville Air Force Station, located 14.7 miles north and east of the city. Part of the Air Defense Command's radar station network, remnants of this station remain, now frequented by paintball enthusiasts.
Climate: Nature's Palette

Colville experiences a continental Mediterranean climate characterized by seasonal temperature extremes. Warm summers and cold winters define the region's climate, creating a dynamic backdrop for the city's activities.
Demographic Tapestry

As of the 2010 census, Colville was home to 4,673 residents, a reflection of its enduring appeal. The city's demographic profile is diverse, with a median age of 40.4 years. Families, singles, and seniors find their place in this vibrant community.
A Thriving Economy

Colville's economy is anchored in agriculture, timber, and mining, with major employers including Boise Cascade, Vaagen Brothers, and Colmac Industries. Regional offices of the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Forest Service, along with the Colville National Forest headquarters, further bolster the local economy.
Cultivating Arts and Culture

In recent years, Colville has witnessed a flourishing of arts and crafts, with a burgeoning music community revitalizing the city's downtown. The surrounding National Forest Land beckons with opportunities for hunting and fishing, while local farms and orchards invite visitors to experience the beauty of rural life.
Embracing the Future

Colville, with its rich history and vibrant present, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that has weathered the test of time. As the city looks ahead, it does so with a firm foundation, knowing that its legacy is built upon the strength and unity of its people.