Historical significance

Located near Vancouver, Battle Ground is one of the fastest-growing cities in Washington state in the first decade of the twenty-first century. The city is home to a school district that serves more than 13,000 students. It also contains a nature center and hiking trails. The Tippecanoe Battleground Museum, which is located in a 96-acre park in Battle Ground, marks the site of the November 7, 1811 battle.

Before the railroad came through, Battle Ground was a settlement of Chinook Indians. Several logging camps were located within five miles of town. The area was rich in bottomland soil, interspersed with swamps. The early settlers in Battle Ground had little formal education. They hosted Sunday schools before the first churches were built.

In 1901, the Portland, Vancouver and Yakima Railroad reached Battle Ground. In July of 1902, the first “general” store opened in Battle Ground. Peter Onsdorff recognized the town’s potential as a regional center of commerce and transportation.

Economic vitality

Despite recent job gains, Indiana has a long way to go to reach its full economic potential. There are several ways to improve the state’s economic performance. The state’s tax system and regulatory environment are two of the most important factors. However, a good economic development program is based on a sound strategic plan, solid research, and realistic targeted marketing.

A comprehensive planning process should include a shared vision and an overview of existing land use and infrastructure. These should be supplemented by topic specific plans that address issues such as transportation, parks, and housing.

A good economic development program should encourage wise use of incentives. It should also encourage local and regional cooperation. These partnerships should be focused on improving the quality of life for all residents.

Reconstruction of Main Street to accommodate increasing traffic

Despite the recent construction of a new fire station and the ongoing refurbishment of the existing one, traffic in the downtown area is on the rise. Fortunately, a comprehensive study of local traffic patterns was performed by the county, which has resulted in recommendations and a road map to guide drivers of all ages and interests. In the foreseeable future, it is expected that the city’s roadways will be a major focus of the County Road Department and City of Battle Ground.

The County and City are currently in the early stages of planning, building and maintaining a new transportation development district that would be a model for other communities in the region. This is in addition to a new transit line that is planned for the upcoming year.

Religion

Throughout the history of Battle Ground, Indiana, religion has had an important place. Churches in the community range from Latter Day Saints to Seventh Day Adventists. In the early days, little formal schooling was available, but new settlers hosted Sunday schools. In the late 1870s, organized religions began to appear in the community. These included the Sacred Heart Catholic Mission, which was founded in Battle Ground in 1877 and became part of Lewis River Parish. It was also the first Protestant church to be established in Battle Ground.

In the early 1900s, the economy was dominated by agriculture, timber, and dairy. There were several saw mills within five miles of town. There were no telephones or electricity in the area until the early 1920s. The Northwestern Electric Company eventually took over Battle Ground’s service.