In 1886 he successfully encouraged land donations and the town was established under the name "Jumper's Flat."

After the discovery of a large water reservoir underneath Greene's farm, the town was renamed to "Waterville.

"[5] According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.87 square miles (2.25 km2), all of it land.

[6] Like most of Eastern Washington, Waterville has a semi-arid climate (Köppen BSk) with cold, moist winters and hot, dry summers.

At 2,625 ft (800 m), Waterville has the highest elevation of any incorporated city or town in Washington.

23.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

24.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.