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Intro to Site
WELCOME TO THE
FRENCHTOWN HISTORIC SITE
SITE COURTESY
a. Please stay on trails to protect native grasses and other vegetation
b. Pets must be on a leash
c. Horses must be kept off trail
d. Site closed from sunset to sunrise
e. Please help with maintenance and report any needs.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS SACRED GROUND
This area is within the homeland of the Walla Walla and Cayuse Tribes. About 1823, Frenchtown was established by French-Canadian men associated with the Hudson’s Bay Company trading post at Fort Nez Perces on the Columbia River, along with their multi-ethnic families. In 1855, the longest battle in Northwest history was fought here between Oregon Mounted Volunteers and Walla Walla, Cayuse, Palouse, and Yakama tribesmen. Walla Walla Chief Peopeomoxmox and many others were killed. In 1863, a cemetery and chapel were established in this vicinity along the Walla Walla River. In 1876, the St. Rose of Lima Mission Church was built on the lower portion of this historic site. Earlier the same year, due to the eroding river bank the older cemetery including burials was moved to this hill.
We invite you to visit the St. Rose Cemetery and the Interpretive Overlook above it. There you will find descriptions of local tribes, historic Frenchtown, the Battle of Walla Walla, St. Rose Mission, St. Rose Cemetery, and the natural landscape and wildlife of the area.
TRAILS TO INTERPRETIVE OVERLOOK AND CEMETERY
-- Pedestrian trail to the northeast—a fine gravel trail 1250 feet in length with ADA accessible grades.
-- Vehicle access—a gravel road beginning to the northwest 1250 feet in length, available for handicap and maintenance vehicles, and for non-motorized use. For vehicle access and other site needs, call 509-629-0044.
FRENCHTOWN HISTORICAL FOUNDATION
frenchtownpartners@charter.net
509-629-0044