Finley, WA
County: Benton
History
Finley, Washington is a small unincorporated community located in Benton County. It lies in the southeastern region of the state, between the cities of Kennewick and Pasco.
Finley's history dates back to the early 1900s when the Northern Pacific Railroad extended its tracks through the area. The town was initially known as Pratt Junction, named after the local railroad agent. However, in 1916, the name was changed to Finley to honor William Finley, a prominent local businessman and politician.
The town grew as a farming and agricultural community, benefitting from the rich soil and abundant water supply from the nearby Columbia River. The fertile land attracted settlers who established orchards, vineyards, and farms, primarily cultivating fruits and vegetables.
As the community expanded, schools, churches, and businesses were established to serve the growing population. The construction of a post office in 1923 further solidified Finley's status as a recognized settlement.
Throughout the 20th century, Finley continued to thrive as an agricultural hub, with most residents engaged in farming activities. The fruits and vegetables produced in the region were highly sought after and contributed significantly to Washington's agricultural industry.
In recent years, Finley has experienced some changes. The expansion of neighboring cities and the urban growth surrounding the Tri-Cities area have put some pressure on the town's rural character. However, Finley maintains its strong agricultural roots and continues to be home to many farms and orchards.
Today, Finley remains a small, tight-knit community with a population of around 6,000 residents. The area is known for its rural charm and picturesque landscapes. While it may not have the same level of notoriety as its neighboring cities, Finley's history and agricultural heritage contribute to its unique character.
Attractions
Sacajawea State Park
A beautiful park situated on the banks of the Columbia River offering hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas.
Columbia Park
This park features a playground, walking trails, sports fields, and a riverside beach.
The Reach Museum
Located in nearby Richland, this museum showcases the history, ecology, and culture of the Columbia River Basin.
Red Mountain AVA
Finley is located in the heart of this renowned wine region, offering opportunities for wine tasting and vineyard tours.
Hanford Reach National Monument
This nearby national monument is home to diverse wildlife, including rare bird species, and offers opportunities for wildlife watching, boating, and hiking along the Columbia River.
Columbia Park Golf Links
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at this 18-hole golf course situated near the Columbia River.
Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve
Located in nearby Richland, this preserve offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Three Rivers Convention Center
Situated in nearby Kennewick, this venue hosts a variety of events, including concerts, trade shows, and conventions.
Water2Wine Cruises
Visitors can take a scenic cruise along the Columbia River and enjoy the views while sipping local wines.
Ice Harbor Brewing Company
Situated in nearby Kennewick, this brewery offers a selection of handcrafted beers and a pub-style menu for visitors to enjoy.
Climate
Finley, Washington has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cool winters. The town experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.
Summers in Finley are hot and dry, with average high temperatures reaching the mid- to upper-90s Fahrenheit (32-37 degrees Celsius) in July and August. It is not uncommon for temperatures to exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) during heatwaves. Summers are also characterized by clear skies and low humidity.
Winters in Finley are fairly mild, although temperatures can drop below freezing. December and January are the coldest months, with average high temperatures ranging from the low 30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (0-7 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is infrequent, with only a few inches of snow accumulating each year.
Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Finley. Springtime brings cooler temperatures, with average highs in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit (10-20 degrees Celsius) in March and April. It is also a relatively wet season, with occasional rain showers. Fall in Finley is characterized by mild temperatures, with average highs in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius) in September and October. Precipitation is generally lower compared to spring.
Overall, Finley experiences a relatively dry climate with low annual precipitation, averaging around 8-10 inches (20-25 centimeters) per year. The region does not typically face extreme weather events such as hurricanes or tornadoes.
Neighborhoods
Finley, Washington is a small community located in Benton County. While it may not have extensive neighborhoods like larger cities, there are a few distinct areas within the town. Here are some notable neighborhoods in Finley:
Finley City Center
This is the heart of Finley, where you will find the majority of businesses, schools, and public facilities. The city center is relatively small, and it encompasses the core of the town's activities.
Finley Farms
As the name suggests, Finley Farms is an area characterized by its agricultural nature. This neighborhood comprises large tracts of land where farming is the predominant activity. You will find sprawling fields, crop plantations, and farmhouses scattered throughout this area.
Residential Subdivisions
There are several residential subdivisions throughout Finley, offering housing to the town's residents. These subdivisions typically consist of single-family homes, some with larger lots. Each subdivision has its own distinct character, with varying home styles and designs.
Rural Areas
Beyond the town's borders, you will find vast stretches of rural land. These areas are sparsely populated and mostly reserved for agricultural or recreational purposes. Some residents in Finley prefer the tranquility and open space provided by these rural areas.
It's important to note that Finley is a small community, so the neighborhood divisions may not be as pronounced as in larger cities. However, these areas offer a general idea of the different characteristics you can expect to find within Finley, Washington.