Tekoa, Washington is a small rural city located in Whitman County, in the northeast corner of the Palouse region. The city is known for its scenic beauty, surrounded by rolling fields and lush landscapes.

Brief History:

• Early Settlement: The area was originally inhabited by the Coeur d’Alene people. The first non-Native settler, Frank Connell, arrived in 1875 and established a trading post.
• Railroad Era: The town was officially incorporated on March 30, 1889, with the arrival of the railroad, which played a crucial role in its development. By 1910, the population had grown to 1,694.
• Economic Changes: Over the years, Tekoa faced economic challenges as mechanized farming reduced the need for labor and railway transportation declined. The Union Pacific abandoned its Tekoa line in 1993.
• Community Spirit: Despite these challenges, Tekoa has maintained a strong community spirit. The town’s historic Empire Theatre was renovated in 2000, and the annual Slippery Gulch Festival is a popular event.

Today, Tekoa is home to around 817 residents and continues to be a close-knit community with a rich heritage.