Clark County Historical Museum

Covington House Open House
2024-04-21 12:00 - 15:00, 2024-05-19 12:00 - 15:00, 2024-06-16 12:00 - 15:00, 2024-07-21 12:00 - 15:00, 2024-08-18 12:00 - 15:00, 2024-09-15 12:00 - 15:00, 2024-10-20 12:00 - 15:00, 2024-11-17 12:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Historic Covington House, 4201 Main St, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

An Evening with Vancouver’s Historian Pat Jollota: Clark County’s Remarkable Women to Remember
2024-10-21 18:00 - 19:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join us for a special evening celebrating the influential women of Clark County, presented by esteemed local historian Pat Jollota. The event, titled “Clark County’s Remarkable Women to Remember,” will take place on Monday, October 21, 2024, at the Clark County Historical Museum (1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660). Doors open at 5:15 p.m., and the presentation begins at 6:00 p.m.
During this engaging presentation, Pat Jollota will shine a spotlight on notable figures such as Mother Joseph, Esther Short, and Mary Schofield, among many others who have played pivotal roles in the history and development of our community. With her extensive knowledge and compelling storytelling style, Pat will bring to life the remarkable contributions of these women and their lasting impact on Clark County.
When one thinks of history in Clark County the first person who comes to mind is Pat Jollota. Pat has devoted decades of her life to gathering, saving, and sharing the stories of Vancouver, Washington, and Clark County.
Pat Jollota is synonymous with local history in Vancouver. Since moving to the area in 1982, she has dedicated herself to preserving and sharing the rich stories of our past. Her work at the Clark County Historical Museum, combined with her prolific authorship—including the popular Naming Clark County—has solidified her as a key figure in our historical narrative.
Since then, Pat’s authorship of local history has been prolific, writing Darkness Next Door, Downtown Vancouver, Camas, Legendary Locals of Vancouver, Vanishing Vancouver, The Murder of Joanne Dewey in Vancouver, Washington, and Haunted Vancouver Washington. Pat Jollota’s story is one of a historian who has made history while saving and sharing it.
This event is sponsored by the Clark County Historic Museum. Tickets are $15 and are limited. Cookie and coffee with be served. All proceeds from ticket sales, donations made at the event, and sales of Darkness Next Door and Naming Clark County will go to the Women’s Educational Scholarship of PEO.
Purchase tickets online at www.cchmuseum.org/an-evening-with-pat or visit the museum at 1511 Main Street. For more information, contact Patsy Aplin, Events Director, chapterdjpeo@gmail.com.

CCHM Victorian Ghost Stories Night at The Hidden House
2024-10-24 06:00 - 21:00 | Hidden House Event Space, 100 West 13th Street, Vancouver, 98660, United States
On October 24, 2024, in the twilight of a crisp October night as the shadows stretch long and the spirits of the past awaken, join us for a night of spectral intrigue and haunted history. Step into the eerie charm of one of Vancouver’s most famous Victorian era homes and settle into the parlor for an unforgettable evening of ghostly tales and historical intrigue at the historic and haunted Hidden House. On this spine-chilling night, join Clark County’s historian and Haunted Vancouver author Pat Jollota alongside CCHM Executive Director Brad Richardson for a night of thrilling ghost stories that will send shivers down your spine While feasting on delicious bites and decadent drinks conjured by the culinary masters at the Hidden House. Each guest will be meticulously outfitted in Victorian-era costumes, provided by the discerning hands of Center Stage Clothiers. Under the watchful and expert eye of Diana Kirkpatrick, Center Stage’s mistress of style, you will be draped in garments that breathe the essence of a time steeped in gothic elegance and unsettling mystery. This night promises to be a memorable descent into the shadows, where history and horror converge in the haunting glow of candlelight.
Tickets are $175 and include:

An evening hearing tales of terror by Clark County’s Historian Pat Jollota and CCHM Executive Director Brad Richardson
A delicious and bountiful menu of fall-themed finger foods
Scrumptious wine and beverages
A free Victorian costume rental from Center Stage Clothiers (must be fitted for costume by Thursday, October 17th. Ticket holders can go into Center Stage Clothiers at 1400 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660, noon to 8:00 pm Tuesday through Saturday)

Historic Monuments in Washington State: Community Conversation
2024-10-29 18:00 - 19:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
How should monuments in our community help us understand the past? Your feedback will help us develop tools to enrich public understanding of Washington history.
Our community conversation moderated by Sarah Pharaon, will focus on the Firsts Monument erected by the Washington State Historical Society by Officers Row in the Vancouver Historic Reserve.
About the Project:
In 2022 the Washington State Historical Society (WSHS) received a grant from the Institute for Museum and Library Services for a project called Dialogue in Place, a process of examining and addressing 42 monuments placed by our agency around the state between 1900 and 1950. When they were erected, these monuments were intended to celebrate individuals and events related to settlement on the land that became Washington State. We now recognize that the presence of these monuments, with their lack of historical context and erasure of the experiences of Tribal Nations, bring harm to Indigenous communities and limit the public’s access to information that fully represents the complexities of the past.
WSHS has initiated government-to-government consultation with Tribes to help determine the future of these monuments. In addition to Tribal consultation, our process involves hosting community conversations around the state to consider the role these objects of public history play in our collective understanding of the past. Feedback from community members will inform our government-to-government dialogue with Tribal Nations and help us develop tools to enrich public understanding of Washington State history.
RSVP HERE

Historic District Haunted History Walking Tour - MEMBERS ONLY
2024-11-02 18:00 - 19:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
The Clark County Historical Museum is excited to provide a sneak peak for current members of a new haunted walking tour on Saturday, November 2 at 6 pm.
Ah, dear patrons, gather ’round as we embark on a most enchanting journey! This added tour shall elevate the museum’s celebrated autumnal event series, offering you a spine-tingling glimpse into the shadows of Vancouver’s most iconic—and, dare I say, haunted—locations. Prepare to be captivated by the eerie tales of the Evergreen Hotel, the storied Webber Building, the enigmatic Columbia Interstate Bridge, and so many more. Join us, if you dare, for a haunting experience that promises to linger in your mind long after the final curtain falls.
Tour begins in front of the Slocum House, rain or shine. Limited to 25.

RSVP HERE

Member-Only Chat - The Checkered Past of Clark County's Own Railroad
2024-11-09 16:00 - 17:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
The Yakima & Vancouver Railroad? Or is it the Vancouver, Klickitat & Yakima Railroad? I thought the “Y” stood for Yacolt. No, wait, what about the Northwestern Railroad & Improvement Co.? Let’s just go with what we all know it to be now: the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.
Current members, join us on Saturday, November 9 at 4 PM as Gregg Herrington explores “The Checkered Past of Clark County’s Own Railroad” at this members-only chat. Gregg will delve into how a group of wealthy businessmen with no railroad experience attempted to cross the Cascades by rail, and the obstacles that shifted this lofty ambition into a rural county attraction.

RSVP HERE

Indigenous Peoples Market
2024-11-16 11:00 - 15:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join us at the Clark County Historical Museum as we celebrate National Native Heritage Month with the Indigenous Peoples Market. This vibrant event will showcase the incredible talents of 14 local Indigenous vendors, offering a unique opportunity to explore and support Indigenous arts and crafts.
Special Performance: Enjoy live music by internationally recognized Native American flutist Dr. Sharie Davis, adding her talents to the event.
Throughout the day, the museum will remain free and open to the public, fostering community engagement and deepening our appreciation for the rich history of the First Peoples who have inhabited this region since Time Immemorial. Attendees will also have the chance to win exciting prizes.
Why It Matters
The Clark County Historical Museum is committed to acknowledging the complex history of our region, including the impacts of Euro-American settlement on Native Peoples. We encourage our community to engage with local Native organizations to better understand our shared past and work towards a more inclusive future.
Resources for Engagement:

Native Arts & Cultures Foundation
Native American Youth And Family Center
Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
Cowlitz Indian Tribe
Chinook Indian Nation
Vanport Placemaking Project

Join Us!
Let’s come together to honor Indigenous heritage and support local artisans. Your participation makes a difference!
Educate, Participate, Engage.

Member-Only: Director's Showcase Wine Tasting
2024-11-16 16:00 - 17:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Current members, join Clark County Historical Museum Executive Director Brad Richardson on Saturday, November 16 at 4 pm for an exclusive look at Brad’s favorite items from the vaults of the museum. Imbibe from a selection of wine from Clark County’s favorite vineyards while being regaled with tales heard only at this one-time only event.

RSVP HERE

CCHMuseum Annual Membership Meeting
2024-11-21 18:00 - 19:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Current members, join the Clark County Historical Museum at 6 pm Thursday, Nov. 21, for our annual membership meeting and awards ceremony. Brad Richardson, Executive Director of the Clark County Historical Museum, will share our accomplishments of 2024, and highlight the exciting programs, events, and exhibits of 2025.
During the event, awards will also be presented to community members for their service in support of gathering, saving, and sharing Clark County history.

RSVP HERE

Clark County Historical Museum Book Sale
2025-02-08 11:00 - 15:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join us on Saturday, February 8, from 11 AM to 3 PM for a special book sale at the Clark County Historical Museum! Held in the research library on the museum’s lower level, this sale features a diverse selection of vintage books, journals, and texts. From Pacific Northwest history to novels, magazines, and academic non-fiction, there’s something for every interest. All books are available on a “pay what you will” donation basis, with a suggested donation of $2 per book and just 25 cents for journals.

Proceeds from the sale will benefit the museum’s Collections Department, helping fund the purchase of preservation materials like boxes, folders, and other essential supplies to safeguard our local history. The museum will be open to the public for free, so come browse the collection, support a great cause, and take home a piece of history.

Spring Equinox Native Art Market
2025-03-22 11:00 - 15:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
After last year’s successful Indigenous Peoples Markets, the Clark County Historical Museum is excited to announce the upcoming Spring Equinox Native Art Market on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the museum, located at 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660.
This vibrant event will showcase 16 talented local Indigenous artists and vendors, including many returning favorites as well as fresh faces presenting their work for the first time. Attendees can explore and purchase a diverse array of handcrafted items, including unique art, jewelry, crafts, and other Indigenous-made goods — perfect for personal collections or thoughtful gifts.
In addition to the marketplace, visitors will enjoy a live performance by internationally acclaimed Native American flutist Dr. Sherrie Davis Morningstar, whose music will beautifully complement the celebration of Indigenous culture and artistry.
The Clark County Historical Museum will also be open and free to the public during the event, offering a chance to explore exhibits that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Southwest Washington.
The Spring Equinox Native Art Market is a fantastic opportunity to connect with local Indigenous artists, support their work, and gain a deeper appreciation for Indigenous traditions and craftsmanship.
For more details, contact the museum at 360-993-5679.

Exhibit Opening: This Is Our Legacy - The 80th Anniversary of the NAACP Vancouver Branch 1139-B
2025-04-11 17:00 - 19:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
The Clark County Historical Museum is proud to announce the opening of its newest exhibit, “This Is Our Legacy”, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Vancouver Branch 1139-B. Created in partnership with the NAACP Vancouver, this milestone exhibit shares the community’s stories in their own words and on their own terms. It highlights the significant contributions and lasting impact of Vancouver’s Black community, tracing the work of the NAACP Vancouver Branch 1139-B in advocating for racial justice, equity, and community empowerment over the past eight decades.

Exhibit Launch and Opening Reception

Join us for the grand opening of “This Is Our Legacy” on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660. This special event is free and open to the public, providing a unique opportunity to be among the first to experience this powerful exhibit.

Exploring the Exhibit

Visitors to “This Is Our Legacy” will embark on a journey through the struggles, victories, and ongoing efforts for racial equity led by the NAACP Vancouver. The exhibit delves into the branch’s history from its founding in April 1945 by a small group of dedicated individuals to its present-day initiatives.

Key features of the exhibit include:

Early Housing Struggles – Discover the challenges Vancouver’s Black community faced in securing fair housing and the persistent fight for equitable living conditions.
Landmark Civil Rights Achievements – Learn about the pivotal moments and victories led by NAACP Vancouver that have shaped the local community.

Youth Empowerment Through ACT-SO – Explore how the branch’s ACT-SO (Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological, and Scientific Olympics) program continues to provide mentorship and recognition to Black youth in the community.

Bringing together a rich collection of artifacts, photographs, and engaging displays, the exhibit offers an in-depth reflection on the history and ongoing work of NAACP Vancouver Branch 1139-B in the fight for civil rights.

A Special Thanks to Our Supporters

This important exhibit was made possible through the generous support of the City of Vancouver Culture, Arts, and Heritage Commission, the Washington State Historical Society Diversity in Local History Grant, and the Divine Consign Grant.

#CCHM After Hours - Vietnamese Community of Clark County
2025-05-02 17:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join us during Vancouver’s First Friday Art Walk for a special evening at the Clark County Historical Museum! Enjoy free admission from 5–8 PM, explore the exhibits, and connect with local organizations.
This month, we’re excited to welcome the Vietnamese Community of Clark County (VCCC) as our featured community partner. Founded in 1992, VCCC supports Vietnamese immigrants and families through language and culture classes, youth mentorship, and community programs. Stop by their table to learn how they’re enriching Clark County’s multicultural landscape and empowering the next generation.

CCHM Speaker Series: Fort Vancouver and the Story of America
2025-06-05 19:00 - 20:00 | Fort Vancouver Visitor Center, 1501 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA, 98661
Join us for a special evening exploring the rich, complex, and evolving story of one of the Pacific
Northwest’s most significant historical sites.
This special edition of the Clark County Historical Museum’s Speaker Series will take place at
the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center, where we welcome Meagan Huff, curator at Fort Vancouver
National Historic Site and longtime Vancouver resident.
Meagan will guide us through the layered history of Fort Vancouver — a site that reflects the
broader American story of settlement, conflict, resilience, and cultural transformation.
From its 19th-century origins as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post to its role in westward
expansion and its continued importance as a National Park Service site, Fort Vancouver holds
over two million artifacts and countless untold stories. These stories help us understand both
the everyday lives of people who lived here and the broader national forces — colonialism,
migration, military presence, and preservation — that shaped this land.
Through archaeology, historical research, and collaboration with Tribes and community
partners, our understanding of this site continues to evolve. This presentation will explore:
🔹 The founding and historical significance of Fort Vancouver
🔹 The impact of archaeology in uncovering stories buried beneath the surface
🔹 The site’s national importance in the broader context of American history
🔹 How our collective memory and interpretation of the site have changed — and continue to
changeMeagan Huff is the museum curator at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. An (almost)
lifelong Vancouver resident, Meagan has worked in museum collections management at Fort
Vancouver NHS since 2010. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Art History and
a Master of Arts degree in Museum Studies, both from the University of Washington.
This installment of the CCHM Speaker Series is sponsored through the generosity of the
Historic Preservation Commission, Pomeroy Living History Farm, and Vancouver Sign
Advance registration is recommended to secure attendance. Tickets available here.

CCHM After Hours - Ridgefield Multicultural Initiative
2025-06-06 17:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join us during Vancouver’s First Friday Art Walk for a special evening at the Clark County Historical Museum! Enjoy free admission from 5–8 PM, explore the exhibits, and connect with local organizations.

On Friday, June 6, the museum is proud to partner with the Ridgefield Multicultural Initiative for our After Hours Takeover during the First Friday Art Walk. This dynamic nonprofit organizes an annual festival in Ridgefield that celebrates and highlights the rich cultural diversity of that community. Stop by the museum to learn more, and visit their website for more information about this amazing group: https://www.ridgefieldculture.org/

Summer Solstice Native Art Market
2025-06-21 11:00 - 15:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Following several successful Native Art Markets since November, the Clark County Historical Museum is excited to announce the upcoming Summer Solstice Native Art Market on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the museum, located at 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660.
This vibrant event will showcase 17 talented local Indigenous artists and vendors, including many returning favorites as well as new participants sharing their work for the first time. Attendees can explore and purchase a diverse array of handcrafted items, including unique art, jewelry, crafts, and other Indigenous-made goods — perfect for personal collections or meaningful gifts. All proceeds from sales go directly to the artists and vendors, supporting their work and communities.
In addition to the marketplace, visitors will enjoy a live performance by internationally acclaimed Native American flutist Dr. Sherrie Davis Morningstar, whose music will beautifully complement the celebration of Indigenous culture and artistry.
The Clark County Historical Museum will be open and free to the public during the event, offering a chance to explore exhibits that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Southwest Washington.
The Summer Solstice Native Art Market is a fantastic opportunity to connect with local Indigenous artists, support their work, and gain a deeper appreciation for Indigenous traditions and craftsmanship.
For more details, contact the museum at 360-993-5679.

History on Tap: Vancouver Ballet Folklorico Presents - TOUR OF MÉXICO
2025-07-17 19:00 - 21:00 | WA
Join us for a special edition of History on Tap as Vancouver Ballet Folklorico takes the stage for TOUR OF MÉXICO—a vibrant celebration of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage through traditional dance.
Travel from the southern to northern regions of Mexico in this colorful showcase featuring authentic dances, cultural costumes, music, and a unique fashion show. With live performances and educational insights from VBF dancers, this event is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the history and diversity of Mexican dance traditions.

About Vancouver Ballet Folklórico
Vancouver Ballet Folklórico (VBF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing traditional Mexican dance and culture. Founded nearly 12 years ago in Vancouver, Washington, VBF has grown through dedication, transformation, and deep community involvement.
Under the passionate leadership of Anna Cruz, the group has become a cornerstone of local cultural events—especially known for its Day of the Dead celebrations. Anna’s tireless commitment, alongside her two daughters and a devoted team, has earned her several accolades, including the Keeper of the Culture Award, the 2024 Iris Awards, and the Latino Art BRAVO Award.
VBF’s mission is to inspire and engage Hispanic youth by offering free access to traditional dance training, creative expression, and cultural education—building both personal growth and community pride.

This event is made possible with support from:
VDA, Heritage Bank, Port of Vancouver, and Giving Solutions Group.
Tickets available here.

CCHM After Hours - Artstra
2025-08-01 17:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join us for First Friday at the Clark County Historical Museum!Celebrate Vancouver’s vibrant arts scene with a special evening of culture and community during the First Friday Art Walk.
On Friday, August 1, enjoy free museum admission from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Explore our exhibits after hours and connect with local creatives during a special After Hours Takeover in partnership with Artstra—a dynamic arts advocacy group championing music, theater, dance, literary, visual, and media arts throughout Southwest Washington.
Come discover the important work Artstra is doing to make the arts accessible and inclusive for all, while enjoying a unique evening at the museum!

Hong Kong Cinema and Singapore—The Cinematic Connection between Two Cities during the Cold War Era (1950–1965)
2025-08-02 14:00 - 15:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Explore the Cinematic Ties Between Hong Kong and Singapore During the Cold War
Free Public Talk at Clark County Historical Museum
Saturday, August 2, 2025 | 2:00 PM | 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA
Join us at the Clark County Historical Museum for a captivating free talk by scholar and filmmaker Dr. Grace Yan-yan Mak (麥欣恩) as she presents “Hong Kong Cinema and Singapore—The Cinematic Connection between Two Cities during the Cold War Era (1950–1965).”
In this engaging program, Dr. Mak will explore how geopolitical tensions in the 1950s transformed the landscape of Chinese-language cinema. With China’s growing isolation during the Cold War, Hong Kong rose to prominence as a new filmmaking powerhouse—shaping cultural narratives across Asia and forging deep cinematic ties with Singapore and Malaya.
Discover how these two British colonies were connected through shared audiences, artistic visions, and cinematic representations that reflected a broader “overseas Chinese” identity. Through film analysis and historical context, Dr. Mak will shine a light on the studios, stories, and cultural forces that defined this vibrant cinematic exchange.
About the Speaker:
Dr. Grace Yan-yan Mak is a Hong Kong–born scholar, writer, and filmmaker with a Ph.D. in Chinese Studies from the National University of Singapore. She serves on the board of the Northwest China Council and is a former apprentice to director Tsui Hark. Dr. Mak has published extensively on Chinese cinema and literature and co-founded Banyan Tree Movies.
Admission is free and open to all. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the intersections of history, politics, and film.

Clark County Historical Museum Super Fun Sale of Books!
2025-08-30 11:00 - 15:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join us once again this year on Saturday, August 30th, from 11 AM to 3 PM for a special book sale at the Clark County Historical Museum! This sale features a diverse selection of vintage books, journals, posters, and texts. From Pacific Northwest history to novels, magazines, and academic non-fiction, there’s something for every interest. All books are available on a “pay what you will” donation basis, with a suggested donation of $2 per book and just 25 cents for journals.
Proceeds from the sale will benefit the museum’s Collections Department, helping fund the purchase of preservation materials like boxes, folders, and other essential supplies to safeguard our local history. The museum will be open to the public for free, so come browse the collection, support a great cause, and take home a piece of history.
The museum will be free and open to the public all day!
Saturday, August 30
11 AM – 3 PM
1511 Main Street, Vancouver WA 98660

Historic Monuments in Washington State: Follow-Up Conversation
2025-09-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA, 98663, United States
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Doors open at 5:15pm | Discussion starts at 6:00pm
Vancouver Arts Hub (former FVRL building) 1007 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98663
FREE (Registration strongly encouraged)
The Clark County Historical Museum is proud to once again partner with the Washington State Historical Society to host Historic Monuments in Washington State: Community Conversation. This important follow-up event builds on last year’s dialogue and will take place at the Clark County Historical Museum on Wednesday, September 24, at 6 PM.
Continuing the ConversationIn fall 2024, our community gathered to discuss the “Firsts” monument located along Officers Row in the Vancouver Historic Reserve. Together, we explored how this monument reflects local history and the ways monuments can shape our understanding of the past.
This year’s session will dig deeper into the issues raised in that first conversation. Attendees will engage in dialogue about the monument’s role in representing our community’s history and consider how monuments like this can—or should—help us learn about the past.
The Importance of Contextualizing HistoryBetween 1900 and 1950, the Washington State Historical Society installed over 40 monuments to commemorate white settlers. Many of these markers lack historical context, contain outdated or harmful language, and often ignore Indigenous perspectives.
In 2020, WSHS committed to addressing these legacies. With guidance from public historians, Indigenous historians, and Tribal representatives, the Society continues to evaluate these monuments and create opportunities for inclusive, community-driven dialogue.
Your Voice MattersThe insights gathered during these community conversations will help guide future actions regarding the “Firsts” monument and others across Washington State. Options under consideration include removal, redesign, or the addition of new interpretive signage.
By participating, you help ensure that the stories we tell in public spaces reflect the full breadth of our shared history.
About the ProjectThis initiative is part of the Dialogue in Place project, funded by the Institute for Museum and Library Services. The project seeks to reassess 42 historical monuments across Washington State through community conversations and government-to-government consultation with Tribal Nations. The goal is to develop new tools for understanding and engaging with our state’s complex history.
Join UsWe invite community members to attend and lend their voices to this vital conversation. Together, we can shape how our region remembers the past and imagines the future.
This program is part of the Washington State Historical Society’s Dialogue in Place project, presented in partnership with the Clark County Historical Museum.
Register here: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=r5nFoiwDuUqxPukepzmCw3mG4k2YG85FgBIHGPibE-FUN0Y3ODBXQUdRN1MxUFJOTThSWEs0UE1MTCQlQCN0PWcu

CCHM After Hours - Columbia Springs
2025-10-03 17:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join us for First Friday at the Clark County Historical Museum!Celebrate Vancouver’s vibrant community with a special evening of nature, science, and connection during the First Friday Art Walk.
On Friday, October 3, enjoy free museum admission from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Explore our exhibits after hours and engage with local environmental leaders during a special After Hours Takeover in partnership with Columbia Springs—a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring stewardship through hands-on science education and outdoor experiences.
Come discover how Columbia Springs is helping thousands of students and families connect with the natural world through programs like Salmon in the Classroom, Repair Clark County, and guided nature walks—all while enjoying a unique evening at the museum!

History on Tap: UFO Northwest — How Washington State Spawned the Men in Black
2025-10-16 19:00 - 21:00 | Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main Street, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
History on Tap: UFO Northwest — How Washington State Spawned the Men in Black
Thursday, October 16, 2025Kiggins Theatre | 1011 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660Doors open at 6:00 PM | Program begins at 7:00 PM
Join us at the historic Kiggins Theatre for the next installment of History on Tap as we dive into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most fascinating and eerie tales of government secrecy, UFOs, and the origin of the “Men in Black.”
On August 1, 1947, the crash of a B-25 bomber in Washington State triggered a federal investigation into “The Maury Island Incident”—an event widely considered the first reported UFO encounter involving the so-called Men in Black. Declassified FBI files from the time reveal a story shaped by Cold War paranoia, interagency conflict, cover-ups, false confessions, and the direct involvement of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover.
In UFO Northwest: How Washington State Spawned the Men in Black, guest speaker Steve Edmiston unravels this true Washington State mystery and explores its lasting influence on UFO lore in popular culture—from 1950s pulp magazines to The X-Files and the Men in Black films. He’ll also explore how the Northwest’s claim to UFO history has been challenged by other narratives across the country.
Admission:
Free for Clark County Historical Museum members
$5 in advance | $10 at the door for non-members

About the Speaker
Steve Edmiston (he/him) is a business and entertainment attorney with Bracepoint Law, as well as a screenwriter and producer. He has spoken at the Pacific Northwest History Conference, Washington State Historical Museum, McMenamins History Pubs, and film festivals and conferences across the region. He is the screenwriter and co-producer of The Maury Island Incident, a short film based on the 1947 UFO sighting reported by Harold Dahl over Puget Sound.

Sponsored By
This program is made possible with generous support from:Vancouver’s Downtown Association, Heritage Bank, Humanities Washington, Silver Keys Media, and NW Legacy Law.
Tickets available here: https://www.kigginstheatre.com/movie/history-on-tap—ufo-northwest
