1948 Map of Priest Rapids

About this map

The Columbia River carves a dramatic path through the landscape of the mid-20th century, separating the rising Wahluke Slope from the rugged terrain of the Yakima Firing Center Military Reservation. This survey captures the river before its modern transformation, highlighting the turbulent Priest Rapids and the industrial infrastructure associated with the Powerhouse and nearby Station. The rail lines of the Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific flank the western shore, following the base of Umtanum Ridge and passing through several drainage cuts including Alkali Canyon and Corral Canyon.