Cheney, WA

Cheney, Washington is a small city located in Spokane County, in the eastern part of the state. The area where the city is now had long been inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Spokane and Coeur d'Alene tribes.

In the mid-1800s, several groups of settlers began to arrive in the area. One of these groups, led by Benjamin P. Cheney, arrived in 1878. Cheney was a prominent investor in the Northern Pacific Railroad, and he wanted to establish a town along the railroad line.

The town was originally known as "Willow Springs" because of the nearby water source, but it was later renamed Cheney in honor of Benjamin Cheney. The town grew rapidly due to its location along the railroad, which brought in businesses and settlers.

Cheney's economy was initially based on agriculture, with wheat being the main crop. The town soon developed additional industries, including flour mills, sawmills, and an asbestos factory. The Eastern Washington State Normal School (now Eastern Washington University) was established in Cheney in 1882, bringing educational opportunities to the area.

Over the years, Cheney has experienced both growth and challenges. The city suffered from the Great Depression, like much of the United States, but it also benefited from the expansion of the Fairchild Air Force Base in the 1940s.

Cheney has continued to evolve and develop as a small, vibrant community. The presence of Eastern Washington University has contributed to its growth and cultural diversity. Today, Cheney is known for its quaint downtown area, outdoor recreation opportunities, and the strong sense of community among its residents.

Overall, the history of Cheney, WA is one of growth from a small railroad town to a thriving city with a rich history and community spirit.

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

A vast wildlife refuge with hiking and bird-watching opportunities.

Eastern Washington University

A beautiful campus offering various cultural and educational events.

John F. Kennedy Memorial Park

A park with walking trails, a playground, and picnic areas.

Cheney Historical Museum

Showcasing the history and heritage of Cheney, with exhibits and artifacts.

Centennial Grove

A park with a gazebo, picnic tables, and beautiful landscaping.

Luther Burbank Park

A well-maintained park with a large playground, baseball fields, and walking paths.

Cheney Filling Station

A historic filling station turned into a museum, displaying vintage gas pumps and other memorabilia.

Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox

A stunning performing arts venue in nearby Spokane, featuring concerts, Broadway shows, and more.

Bowl and Pitcher

Located in nearby Riverside State Park, it offers stunning views of the Spokane River and unique geological formations.

Spokane County Raceway

A thrilling racetrack with various events throughout the year, including drag racing and stock car racing.

Cheney, WA has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The region experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year. Summers are generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30°C) during the day, and cooler temperatures in the evenings. It is common for temperatures to reach the 100s (around 38°C) during heatwaves. Rainfall is scarce during summer, contributing to the dry conditions.

Winters in Cheney are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Daytime temperatures typically range from the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 1-5°C), with nighttime lows in the 20s to 30s (-4 to 0°C). Snowfall is common during winter months, with an average of around 40 inches (100 cm) of snowfall annually. This, combined with cold temperatures, can lead to snow accumulation and occasional winter storms.

Spring and fall in Cheney are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. Spring temperatures range from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-25°C), while fall temperatures range from the 50s to 60s (10-20°C).

Overall, Cheney experiences a continental climate, with distinct seasons and noticeable fluctuations in temperature throughout the year.

Cheney is a small city located in Spokane County, Washington. While there may not be as many distinct neighborhoods in Cheney as compared to larger cities, there are a few noted areas with their own characteristics and appeal. Here are some of the neighborhoods you can find in Cheney:

Downtown Cheney

The hub of the city, downtown Cheney features a charming and walkable area with local businesses, shops, restaurants, and services. It is a mix of historical buildings and newer developments, and it often hosts community events and festivals.

College Hill

As the name suggests, this neighborhood is located near Eastern Washington University (EWU). It mainly consists of residential areas with a mix of apartments, student housing, and single-family homes. College Hill has a vibrant atmosphere due to its proximity to the university campus.

Cheney South Hill

Situated in the southern part of Cheney, this neighborhood is known for its residential character and family-friendly environment. It offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. Cheney South Hill is also close to schools, parks, and retail areas.

Salnave District

Located east of downtown Cheney, the Salnave District is a historically significant area. It features several well-preserved homes dating back to the early 20th century. Many of these homes are considered local landmarks, contributing to the district's unique character.

Cheney West

West of downtown Cheney, you will find Cheney West, which is primarily a residential area. It offers a mix of housing styles, from older homes to newer subdivisions. Cheney West provides easy access to various amenities and is close to Betz Elementary School.

Fisher's Addition

Situated northwest of downtown Cheney, Fisher's Addition is a peaceful neighborhood with a suburban feel. It is known for its spacious lots and well-maintained residences. Fisher's Addition offers a more secluded atmosphere while still being close to Cheney's central amenities.

These are just a few examples of the different neighborhoods you can find in Cheney, WA. Each area has its own unique characteristics and attractions, contributing to the overall charm of the city.