The Sesquicentennial Legacy Event, set for October 4th, invites everyone to take part in a vibrant day of history, community, and celebration.
The year is 2025—and Columbia County is turning 150! In 1875, Columbia County officially came into existence after a successful effort to separate from the expansive Walla Walla County, which at the time stretched all the way to the Idaho border. While an initial attempt to form a new county in 1869 failed, a second effort in 1875 succeeded, and on or around November 29 of that year, Columbia County was born. Originally extending to the Idaho state line, the eastern portion later became Garfield County in 1881. Now, 150 years later, we’re celebrating a legacy shaped by generations of resilience, progress, and community spirit.
Schedule of Events
10 am – 3 pm – Art Walk by the Blue Mountain Artists
Moose Creek Café & Bakery, Dayton Historic Depot, Locally Nourished
11 am – Opening Ceremony
Dayton Historic Depot, 222 E Commercial: Local, State, and Federal Dignitaries arrive by Stagecoach to open the event
11:30 am – 1:30 pm – Meet-Your-Neighbor “Chuckwagon” Lunch by The Q
Dayton Historic Depot: Free (Quantity is Limited). Tickets are required and may be picked up at the Dayton Chronicle, Dingle’s, the Dayton Chamber, Locally Nourished, Bank of Idaho, the Dayton Historic Depot or the Port of Columbia or call the Port at 509-382-2577 by Thursday, October 2 to reserve tickets.
12 – 3 pm – Downtown Guided Walking Tours & Living History Vignettes
Living History Players portray early Col Co figures at historic venues. Tours start at the Depot.
1 – 1:45 pm – Sauerkraut & Stories with Mr. Stine
Boldman House Museum, 410 N 1st
3 – 4 pm – Ice Cream Social
Columbia County Courthouse, 341 E Main. Hand-dipped ice cream & Weinhard Root beer Floats
Closing Ceremony and Mural Unveiling
Palus Museum/Old Scott Lumber Building, 426 E Main. Come see the unveiling of the Sesquicentennial Committee’s gift to the community
Click here for a full schedule of events, including each location and character for the Living History Vignettes.