News Release

New Ranger Walks Share Local History

An image taken in 1944 of the formerly George Gress Butcher Shop in Richland, which is now home to Frost Me Sweet.

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

News Release Date: April 26, 2023

Contact: Becky Burghart, 208-848-6098

New Ranger Walks Share Local History Richland, WA. –Manhattan Project National Historical Park rangers will lead guided walks around downtown Richland on the first Wednesday of each month from May through August. The “Not So Secret City” walking tour is a free 2-hour guided walk through the heart of downtown Richland. These programs will be offered at 9:00 am on May 3, June 7, July 5, and August 2. Meet at the flagpole in front of the Richland Community Center by 8:45 am for a 9:00 am departure.

The Manhattan Project presence in this region began in 1943 and transformed Richland and the surrounding area in just a matter of months. Participants will learn about the farming community that was here before the Manhattan Project and how this rural hamlet transformed into a bustling community of atomic workers and their families. Rangers will share where families went about their daily activities and built a sense of community while working on the extraordinary project and living in this almost secret city. Much of the former secret city makes up the heart of downtown Richland today.

“It is easy to walk by the historic buildings in downtown Richland and not realize the history that is hidden in plain sight. The Manhattan Project is one of the most transformative events of the 20th century. Stories of the people who helped usher in the atomic age are held within the buildings and landscape in the area around the Parkway in Richland. We are excited to offer these new ranger walks to share this history with locals and visitors,” said Hanford Unit Site Manager Becky Burghart.

Participants will walk about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and should wear proper footwear, bring water, and plan for a variety of weather. The route is mostly flat with several gentle inclines on sidewalks or paved surfaces. Sign language interpreters are available for the programs with two weeks advance notice.

To learn more about the event, visit: www.facebook.com/ManhattanProjectNPS. Learn more about the Manhattan Project and Hanford’s role in the project.