Washington Filmworks uses our Location of the Month newsletters to showcase the diversity of unique looks and resources for production in a number of jurisdictions around Washington State. Find previous installments archived on our website and on the WF Blog.


Rosalia – May 2015

Screen Shot 2015-05-07 at 2.11.57 PM

 


Lined with patriotic flags and a sense of community, Rosalia is a true slice of Americana. Established in 1870 and incorporated in 1894, the town is approximately 40 miles south of Spokane, Washington. Rustic farmland is surrounded by the gorgeous rolling hills of the Palouse, with the town proudly owning the title as the “Gateway to the Palouse.” Rosalia’s rich history includes the Battle of Steptoe, original brick buildings, and a memorabilia-filled museum. The first Saturday of every June sees the town celebrate its history with battle day events. This fun weekend includes a fun run, parade, car show, craft show, rodeo, talent show, and many other family-friendly events.


Rosalia Weather

Bridge photos from Dave Flye

Photo credit: Dave Slye

Average temperature:

January – High 33.0 F Low 21.0 F
July – High 83.0 F Low 55.0 F

Precipitation:
January Rainfall – 2.25 inches
July Rainfall – 0.55 inches

Source: Western Regional Climate Center


Projects Filmed in Rosalia

Photo credit: David Slye

Photo credit: Washington Filmworks

The feature films Toys and The Basket were shot just outside town in the rolling wheat fields. Most recently the television series Z Nation was filmed in town. Many residents were extras and enjoyed the experience.


Key Locations of Interest

Photo credit: David Slye

Photo credit: David Slye

The town’s main street, Whitman Avenue, is filled with amazing views and historic old buildings. Walking down the avenue, visitors will run into various charming businesses such as cafes, a book store, art studio, and market. There are also several old warehouses throughout as well as a grain mill. But a main attraction is a fascinatingly vintage Texaco station that radiates nostalgia.


Distance to Closest Large Washington Airport

  • Spokane International Airport is approximately 40 miles from Rosalia.

Distance to Closest Large City in Washington

  • Spokane is approximately 40 miles from Rosalia.

 Relevant Contact Names and Information

Photo credit: Washington Filmworks

Photo credit: Washington Filmworks

  • Local Film Liaison: Jenna McDonald, Clerk/Treasurer, Town of Rosalia, 509 523-5991, clerk@rosaliatown.org
  • Agency that issues permits and costs: Rosalia City Hall, (509) 523-5991
  • Police or Sheriff’s Department or agency that handles traffic control: Sheriff Ron Rockness, Whitman County Sherriff’s Office, (509) 397-6266

Accommodations

Photo credit: David Slye

Photo credit: David Slye

Accommodations can be found here and here.


About:

1411 Fourth Ave., Suite 420
Seattle,WA 98101
(206) 264-0667
Washington Filmworks is the non-profit 501(c)(6) organization that manages the state film and production incentive programs. Its mission is to create economic development opportunities by building and enhancing the competitiveness, profile, and sustainability of Washington’s film industry. We do this by creating possibilities for local and national filmmakers, offering comprehensive production support, as well as financial incentives.