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Named for the popular Chief Taholah, this town at the mouth of the Quinault River is the center for the Quinault Indian Nation.
At the treaty meeting in 1855, Governor Stevens intended to establish this area as a permanent reserve for the coastal Indians. Today seven tribes make up the Quinault Indian Nation.
Historically, salmon and steelhead fishing was the major economic activity of the Quinault people. In addition, the rich supply of timber played an important part in their lifestyle. They lived a rich existence with hunting, fishing, and ample supplies of timber for building and firewood. The Quinault Reservation of 189,621 acres is located in northwestern Grays Harbor County and southwest Jefferson County, 45 miles north of Hoquiam. The Quinault Tribe is governed by an 11 member business committee which meets with officers of the General Council. It functions under a set of by-laws which the Tribe adopted August 24, 1922
The coastal portion of SR 109 ends at Taholah, headquarters for the Quinault Indian Nation, a federation of seven tribes. The Nation is entering an era of self-governance, with expansion of its economic opportunities to include tourism activities based around its natural resources.
The Taholah Days Festival, in mid-summer, is an excellent testament to the history and culture of this Nation. The Quinault Enterprise, home of Quinault Pride fish products, is open to visitors and sells the rare delicacy of Quinault Blueback Salmon, canned seafoods, vacuum-packed smoked salmon and gourmet packaged dinners. Additionally, the Quinault Heritage Center is open to visitors.
Tribal beaches are closed to the public and all visitors must check in at the Nation Headquarters located at the end of the Highway in Taholah. River guides may be hired for fishing trips on that portion of the Quinault River that lies within the Nation's borders. |
