National Register of Historic Places listings in Lincoln County, Washington facts for kids
The National Register of Historic Places is like a special list of important buildings, places, and objects in the United States. These places are chosen because they have a lot of history or are very special in some way. When a place is on this list, it means people want to help protect it so future generations can learn from it. Lincoln County, Washington, has several amazing places on this list, each with its own unique story!
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Historic Places in Lincoln County
Lincoln County is home to many fascinating historic sites. These places tell us about the past, from old hotels and military forts to power plants and even ancient rock shelters. Let's explore some of them!
Almira Hotel
The Almira Hotel is a historic building located in the town of Almira. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006. This old hotel reminds us of how people traveled and stayed in towns many years ago.
Atlas E Missile Site 9
Near Reardan, you can find the Atlas E Missile Site 9. This site was listed in 2009. It's a reminder of the Cold War era, a time when the United States had missile sites ready for defense. It shows a different side of history, focusing on technology and national security.
Fort Spokane
Fort Spokane is a very important historical site located near Miles. It was added to the Register in 1988. This fort was once a military post used by the U.S. Army. It played a role in the history of the region, especially in interactions with Native American tribes and in keeping peace.
Goose Creek Rockshelter
The Goose Creek Rockshelter, near Wilbur, was listed in 1978. This site is very special because it's a natural rock shelter that was used by early people. It gives us clues about how ancient communities lived and used the land long before towns were built. Its exact location is kept secret to protect it.
Harrington Bank Block and Opera House
In Harrington, you'll find the Harrington Bank Block and Opera House. This building was added to the Register in 1992. It's a cool example of a building that served two very different purposes: a bank for money and an opera house for entertainment! Imagine people going there to deposit money and then later watching a show.
Lincoln Hotel (Harrington, Washington)
Also in Harrington is the Lincoln Hotel, listed in 2010. Like the Almira Hotel, this building tells us about travel and hospitality from a long time ago. Hotels like these were central to small towns, offering a place for visitors to stay and for locals to gather.
Hydroelectric Power Plants
Lincoln County is home to two important hydroelectric power plants on the Spokane River:
- Little Falls Hydroelectric Power Plant: Located near Reardan, this plant was listed in 1988. It uses the power of moving water to create electricity.
- Long Lake Hydroelectric Power Plant: Near Ford, this plant was also listed in 1988. It's another example of how people harnessed natural resources to power homes and businesses.
These plants are important because they show how technology developed to provide energy to communities.
Mary Queen of Heaven Roman Catholic Church
The Mary Queen of Heaven Roman Catholic Church in Sprague was added to the Register in 1990. Churches are often important historical buildings because they are centers of community life and often feature beautiful architecture. This church tells a story about the people and their faith in Sprague.
Historic Bridges
Two bridges in Lincoln County are also on the National Register:
- Spokane River Bridge at Fort Spokane: This bridge, listed in 1995, crosses the Spokane River near Fort Spokane. Bridges are vital for connecting communities and allowing people and goods to travel.
- Spokane River Bridge at Long Lake Dam: Also listed in 1995, this bridge crosses the Spokane River near the Long Lake Dam.
These bridges are recognized for their engineering and their role in transportation history.
These historic places in Lincoln County offer a glimpse into the past, showing us how people lived, worked, and built communities over many years. They are important reminders of our history and heritage.
See also
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Washington state
- Listings in neighboring counties: Adams, Ferry, Grant, Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens, Whitman
- Historic preservation
- History of Washington (state)
- Index of Washington-related articles
External links
- Washington Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, Historic Register program
- National Park Service, National Register of Historic Places site
