Ferries named for Native places

Indigenous names for state’s two newest ferries

By Richard WalkerTwo 64-car state ferries to be launched in 2011 will be named the “Salish” and the “Kennewick.” The State Transportation Commission selected the names July 13.

“Salish” is expected to be launched in spring 2011; “Kennewick” is expected to be launched in summer 2011, according to Washington State Ferries.

“Salish” refers to the Coast Salish people of the region, and is also the geographical name of the inland sea comprised of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Strait of Georgia, and Puget Sound. “Kennewick” means “grassy place” and “grassy slope” and comes from the name Kin-i-wak, the commission website states. Kennewick was the gathering place for the Cayuse, Chemnapum, Nez Perce, Umatilla, Walla Walla, Wanapam and Yakama.Comment:  For more on the subject, see Ferries Won't Be Named for Indians and Name Ferry for S'Klallam Chief.