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Valley, Washington
Valley, Washington is located in Washington (state)
Valley, Washington
Valley, Washington
Location in Washington (state)
Country United States
State Washington
County Stevens
Elevation
1,696 ft (517 m)
Population
 (2009)
 • Total 1,915
Time zone UTC-8 (Pacific (PST))
 • Summer (DST) UTC-7 (PDT)
ZIP code
99181
Area code(s) 509
GNIS feature ID 1527659

Valley is a small community in Stevens County, Washington, United States. It is known as a census-designated place, which means the government counts its population separately. It is also an unincorporated community, meaning it does not have its own local city government. In the 2010 census, about 146 people lived there.

History of Valley

How Valley Got Its Name

The town of Valley was named by a man named Daniel C. Corbin. He chose the name "Valley" because the town is located right at the entrance to the larger Colville Valley. This made it a fitting name for the area.

Early Transportation and Growth

In 1889, the Spokane Falls and Northern Railway reached Valley. This was a big step for the community. Daniel C. Corbin quickly set up a small building to serve as a train station, or depot. This helped people and goods move in and out of Valley more easily.

First Settlers and Buildings

Most people living in the area originally settled across the valley, west of the river. This was near the old Fort Walla Walla Fort Colville Military Road. Not many people came to the east side, where Valley is now, because the areas around the river were quite swampy.

The oldest house in Valley was built in 1885 by the Jarvis family. John C. Jarvis was also the first postmaster for Valley. He managed the mail from December 1889 until November 1893.

Important Businesses and Fires

George Kulzer arrived in Valley in 1889. He built a store called "Kulzer and Son." In 1908, a fire sadly destroyed his store, along with a saloon and a stable. However, the store was rebuilt and is still standing today. George Kulzer also built a special road, called a corduroy road, across the valley towards Waitts Lake. These roads were made by laying logs side by side.

Valley's Early Services

Valley was officially planned out on July 29, 1891. In its early days, Valley had many important services. It had its own bank, a power plant to make electricity, a phone company, and a water company. There was also a feed mill, two hotels, a drug store, and a blacksmith shop. These services show how busy and important Valley was back then.

Location and Local Life

Where Valley is Located

Valley is found on Washington State Route 231. It is about 8.5 miles (13.7 kilometers) north of a town called Springdale. Valley also has its own post office with the ZIP code 99181.

The Annual Valley Fair

Every year, Valley hosts a special fair on the second Saturday of August. This fair focuses on creating an "old-fashioned family atmosphere." It encourages children and young people to learn and practice traditional skills. These skills include crafts, baking, and food preservation. It is a fun way for families to connect with the past.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Valley (Washington) para niños

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