Konewock

By George M. Martin, June, 1968

The first store, or trading post, in the Yakima Valley was established by Egbert French, a Squaw man, in 1867 at the present site of Donald in Parker Bottoms. The bottomland was at that time called Konowock by the Indians, meaning a “lush grassy place.” (It is interesting to note that “Kennewick” is actually the same name, as it was also a “ lush grassy place.”) French was a cattleman and was attracted by the grass.

Rev. Isaac Alvinza Flint and his young bride Sarah Bigelow Flint

He soon sold out to Issac Flint, an itinerant preacher. Flint obtained a post office on June 28, 1871 and was named first postmaster. It was natural that the office was named Konewock.

Flint attracted other settlers and began preaching. As a result the area became popularly known as “Piety Flats.” Some years later the area became known as “Parker Bottom.”

The old Konewock store and post office still stands in the Don McDonald Hop yard.

Eventually the place was named “Donald” and a small village and business center and railroad shipping point developed.

Rev. Flint's first home

Konewock was on the route of traders and settlers traveling from the Dalles to the East Kittitas area and the Okanogan. The post office was finally discontinued in 1880.

Hop kiln circa 1890

In 1870 an election was held to determine the location of the county seat of the newly formed Yakima County. The main contenders were Flint’s Store at Konewock and Yakima City (or Mt. Ottowa). Yakima City was able to govern the most votes and became the county seat.

Konewock is truly one of the most historic spots in the county.