Felony Flats facts for kids
Felony Flats is a nickname given to certain areas in cities across the Western United States. These places often got this name because they were once seen as having some challenges or difficulties. The word "Flats" in the name usually refers to a flat area of land, often found near a river or creek. It does not mean "apartments" like the word "flat" can mean in some other countries.
What are "Felony Flats" Areas?
These areas are found in different cities and each has its own story. Here are some examples:
- In Aberdeen, Washington, the area known as Felony Flats is located next to the Wishkah River. This spot is well-known as the place where musician Kurt Cobain grew up.
- Apple Valley, California also has a neighborhood called Felony Flats, which is near California State Route 18.
- A part of the West Central neighborhood in Spokane, Washington, close to the Spokane River, is sometimes referred to by this name.
- The area between Vancouver and Camas, Washington in Washington state, near the Columbia River, has also been called Felony Flats.
- In Wasilla, Alaska, the north side of town, near Mile 49 on the George Parks Highway, is another location with this nickname.
- In south-east Portland, Oregon, certain neighborhoods like Foster-Powell and Lents are sometimes included in this loosely defined area.
Understanding "Poverty Flats"
Another similar term, "Poverty Flats", was used for many towns in the Western US. This name also described areas that faced economic difficulties. Some places that were once called Poverty Flat include:
- Dunsmuir, California
- Redding, California
- Lee Vining, California (which was originally named Poverty Flat)
- Grant, Idaho
- Wolf Point, Montana
- Moab, Utah
A fictional mining town called Poverty Flat was featured in a 1915 movie called The Lily of Poverty Flat. This movie was based on a book by Bret Harte and was filmed near Santa Cruz, California.
