Clark County Historical Museum

CCHM After Hours - Ridgefield Multicultural Initiative
2025-06-06 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 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/

Wander Clark County - Old City Cemetery
2025-06-14 09:00 - 10:30, 2025-06-14 11:00 - 12:30 | Old City Cemetery, 2700 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA, 98661
Explore Vancouver’s rich history on a walking tour of the Old City Cemetery, established in 1867 and home to an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 burials. From pioneering families like the Hiddens and Sparks to influential figures like Esther Short and Judge Columbia Lancaster, this cemetery tells the stories of those who shaped the city’s past. Discover Civil War veterans, early business leaders, and even infamous characters like Arthur “Haint” Haine, whose unique funeral remains legendary. Join us as we uncover the triumphs, tragedies, and legacies of Vancouver’s past residents in this fascinating journey through time.
Tickets are $10.00 for non-members. CCHM members are free but RSVP is required.
For questions, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.
Thank you to our Program Sponsor, X Dog Adventures!

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.

Wander Clark County - Historic Downtown Camas
2025-06-28 09:00 - 10:30, 2025-06-28 11:00 - 12:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Step back in time and explore the rich history of Camas, Washington, on a guided walking tour through its charming downtown. From its early days as a mill town to its vibrant present, Camas boasts beautifully preserved historic buildings, each with a unique story to tell. Stroll past iconic landmarks like the 1927 Granada/Liberty Theater, the stately Camas Hotel, and the storied Farrell Building, all while uncovering fascinating tales of pioneers, entrepreneurs, and community visionaries. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a delightful way to experience the town, this tour offers an engaging glimpse into the past and the people who shaped it. Book your tickets today and take a walk through history!
Tickets are $10.00 for non-members. CCHM members are free but RSVP is required.
For questions, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.
Thank you to our Program Sponsor, X Dog Adventures!

CCHM Speaker Series: The Blacklist Era and Hollywood
2025-07-10 19:00 - 20:00 | Battle Ground Event Center, 912 East Main Street, Battle Ground, 98604, United States
“Are you now or have you ever been a member of the Communist Party?”
This chilling question defined an era. At the height of the Cold War, it sent shockwaves through Hollywood and devastated countless careers. During the 1940s Red Scare, the House Committee on Un-American Activities made headlines by compelling actors, writers, and directors to testify about alleged Communist affiliations. The choice was stark: betray friends and colleagues by “naming names,” or risk blacklisting and the end of one’s livelihood.
In this thought-provoking, film-clip-illustrated presentation, film critic and historian Robert Horton explores the stories of those caught in the hysteria—figures like Humphrey Bogart, Elia Kazan, and Charlie Chaplin—and examines how fear, patriotism, and politics collided on the silver screen. The evening will conclude by asking a provocative question: Could it happen again?
Robert Horton (he/him) is a nationally respected film critic and historian. A longtime contributor to Seattle Weekly, the Everett Herald, and KUOW, Horton is a member of the National Society of Film Critics and the author of several books, including a study of Frankenstein. He has served as a Fulbright specialist, Smithsonian Journeys speaker, and educator at Seattle University and London’s Architectural Association. He currently hosts The Music and the Movies radio show and lives in Seattle.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Doors Open: 6:30 PM
Presentation: 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Venue: Battle Ground Event Center
912 East Main Street, Battle Ground, WA 98604
Admission: Free
Advance registration required. Space is very limited—reserve your ticket today.
Please note: This event is not being held at the Clark County Historical Museum.
Sponsored by Humanities Washington and the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission

Wander Clark County - Historic Downtown Vancouver
2025-07-12 09:00 - 10:30, 2025-07-12 11:00 - 12:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Discover the rich history of Vancouver’s Main Street on this walking tour, where each building tells a story of resilience, entrepreneurship, and community. From the city’s first hall and fire department to historic banks, hotels, and theaters, we’ll explore landmarks like the Evergreen Hotel, U.S. National Bank, and Kiggins Theater. Meet the pioneering families—Schofield, Hidden, Sparks—who shaped Vancouver’s commercial and civic life. Learn about the transformations of Main Street over time, from its early days as a bustling trade hub to a modern center of culture and preservation. Join us for a journey through time in the heart of Vancouver.
Tickets are $10.00 for non-members. CCHM members are free but RSVP is required.
For questions, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.
Thank you to our Program Sponsor, X Dog Adventures!

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.

Wander Clark County - Historic Downtown Battle Ground
2025-07-26 09:00 - 11:30, 2025-07-26 11:00 - 12:30 | Dev’s Coffee Bar, 316 E Main St., Battle Ground, WA, 98604, United States
Step into history with the Battle Ground Walking Tour, where each stop brings the past to life. Discover how this town got its unique name from a peaceful resolution gone awry in 1855. Stroll down Main Street, once the dividing line between early homesteads, and see landmarks like the 1928 Sacred Heart Church, the historic Stith Home, and Dr. Skinner’s combined home and office. Learn about the daring 1946 Battle Ground State Bank robbery, the devastating fires that reshaped the town, and the thriving businesses that emerged from its pioneer days. From century-old storefronts to hidden tales of resilience and innovation, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the people and places that built Battle Ground. Book your tickets today and explore the stories waiting to be uncovered!
Tickets are $10.00 for non-members. CCHM members are free but RSVP is required.
For questions, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.
Thank you to our Program Sponsor, X Dog Adventures!

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.

CCHM Speaker Series: Martha's Pantry - Serving Southwest Washington Since 1986
2025-08-07 19:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Martha’s Pantry: Serving Clark County Since 1986
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Clark County Historical Museum
1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660
Free for CCHM Members | $5 for Non-Members
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
Talk Begins: 7:00 PM
Join us for an evening with Vicki Smith, retired Air Force Lt. Colonel and longtime Executive Director of Martha’s Pantry, as she shares the powerful and deeply personal history of one of Clark County’s most compassionate organizations.
Founded during the height of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s, Martha’s Pantry began as a grassroots effort—neighbors helping neighbors by distributing food from car trunks. Today, under Vicki’s 20+ years of leadership, the pantry has grown into a vital resource serving over 100 families a month, with expanded services including:

Personal hygiene and toiletry items
Donated clothing through Michele’s Closet
Pet food and cleaning supplies
Food pantry staples with client choice menus

This program will explore the pantry’s past, present, and future—and what role each of us can play in supporting dignity, survival, and community for those facing crisis.
🎤 About the Presenter
Vicki Smith has led a multifaceted life—from serving in the U.S. Air Force to directing one of Clark County’s most impactful nonprofits. Since taking the helm at Martha’s Pantry, a mission of MCC of the Gentle Shepherd Church, she has transformed the all-volunteer organization from a 10×10 room with no budget into a 3,000-square-foot community lifeline.
Tickets available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cchm-speaker-series-marthas-pantry-serving-clark-county-since-1986-tickets-1505838666989?aff=oddtdtcreator

Wander Clark County - Washougal Memorial Cemetery
2025-08-09 09:00 - 10:30, 2025-08-09 11:00 - 12:30 | Washougal Memorial Cemetery, 3329 Q Street, Washougal, WA, United States
Discover the stories of Washougal’s pioneers on the Washougal Memorial Cemetery Walking Tour. This journey takes visitors through the historic Pioneer Sections A and B, where the town’s earliest settlers rest. Learn about the influential families who shaped Washougal, from homesteaders and war veterans to entrepreneurs and civic leaders. Uncover the origins of Washougal’s founding through the lives of figures like Richard Ough, a Hudson’s Bay Company trader who married Chinook princess White Wing, and Joseph Gibbons, an early pioneer who helped establish the town. Walk among the gravestones of soldiers, business owners, and trailblazers whose legacies live on in the fabric of the community. This tour offers a moving glimpse into the past, connecting you with the people who built Washougal.
Tickets are $10.00 for non-members. CCHM members are free but RSVP is required.
For questions, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.
Thank you to our Program Sponsor, X Dog Adventures!

Wander Clark County - Historic Old Town Ridgefield
2025-08-23 09:00 - 10:30, 2025-08-23 11:00 - 12:30 | Overlook Park, 113-131 S Main Ave, Ridgefield, WA, 98642, United States
Step into Ridgefield’s past on this walking tour through its historic downtown, where early pioneers, industrious mill owners, and enterprising merchants shaped the city we know today. From the Chinook village of Cathlapotle to the arrival of settlers like the Carty and Shobert families, Ridgefield’s history is one of resilience and transformation. Explore landmarks such as the Ridgefield Hardware Store, Union Ridge Presbyterian Church, and the historic Liberty Theater, each with its own story to tell. Discover how this once-bustling hub of timber, agriculture, and commerce evolved into the charming community it is today.
Tickets are $10.00 for non-members. CCHM members are free but RSVP is required.
For questions, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.
Thank you to our Program Sponsor, X Dog Adventures!

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

Museum Closed
2025-09-02 08:00 - 2025-09-06 17:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

CCHM Speaker Series: Fort Vancouver’s First Centennial & Its Coin with Martin Middlewood
2025-09-11 19:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Fort Vancouver’s First Centennial & Its CoinDate: Thursday, September 11, 2025Time: Doors open at 6 PM | Talk begins at 7 PMLocation: Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660Cost: Free for CCHM Members | $5 for Non-Member
Join historian and award-winning writer Martin Middlewood for a fascinating journey into the chaotic, ambitious, and little-known story of Fort Vancouver’s 1925 Centennial celebration—a commemoration powered by community pride, political wrangling, and a special 50-cent commemorative coin.
Learn how forgotten history was revived, coins were flown in on a daring one-day trip to San Francisco, and last-minute challenges reshaped the celebration. Middlewood will place the event in its national context and reveal what happened after the fanfare faded.

Haunted Walking Tours
2025-09-12 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-09-13 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-09-19 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-09-20 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-09-26 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-09-27 19:00 - 20:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Are you curious to hear tales of what haunts the buildings and streets of Downtown Vancouver? Interested in the strange and peculiar side of our local history? Then join us as we take an excursion through Clark County’s haunted history. Every Friday and Saturday night in October, guides from the Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) will lead inquiring minds to the answers. Join them on walking tours along Main Street and beyond to uncover the unexplained in this historic city.
CCHM Downtown Vancouver Haunted Tours
Fridays and Saturdays in September 12 thru October 25 at 7:00 PM
Clark County Historical Museum – 1511 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98661
A mix of stories, memories, research, and personal experiences, these tours are a fascinating glimpse through the darker side of history. Many of our tales of history and terror are drawn from the book Darkness Next Door, penned by Clark County historian, Pat Jollota. They begin at 7:00 PM most nights, and guides will lead up to 25 people for approximately a mile, while making frequent stops along the way. General admission tickets are $20.00 per person and CCHM Members are $15.00.
All are welcome on the tours, though they are best suited for those 10 years and older. Tickets are required for all persons attending over the age of six. In addition, tours happen rain or shine, so CCHM encourages guests to bring a flashlight and dress for the weather. (Costumes appreciated.)
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/historic-haunted-walking-tours-2025-4491843?
CCHM’s Haunted Walking Tours is an annual and popular series that supports the museum’s mission to gather, save, and share Clark County history.
For more information, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.

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

Speaker Series: The Murder of JoAnn Dewey, presented by Pat Jolotta
2025-10-02 19:00 - 20:00 | Historic Covington House, 4201 Main St, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Before midnight on March 19, 1950, startled bystanders outside Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Vancouver, Washington, witnessed a horrifying scene: two men forcing a screaming young woman into a car. That woman, JoAnn Dewey, was never seen alive again.
Dewey had recently moved to Portland to work and share an apartment with a friend. On this fateful night, she missed her bus home and walked to the hospital, planning to spend the night with another friend. By the next morning, a massive search for her was underway.
The case culminated in the longest trial in Clark County history at the time and ended with a death sentence for the Wilson brothers. Yet the story did not end there—appeals, escapes, and shocking courtroom testimony kept the case in the headlines until their execution in 1953.
Local historian and author Pat Jollota will lead us through the twists, turns, and dark truths of this remarkable case, shedding new light on one of the region’s most disturbing chapters.
Please Note: Due to ongoing upgrades to the Clark County Historical Museum’s roof, this month’s Speaker Series will be hosted at the Historic Covington House. Seating is extremely limited. Registration is required. This event is free and open to the public.
About Pat Jollota
Pat Jollota is a beloved historian, author, and former Vancouver City Council member whose work has shaped how Clark County remembers its past. Over two decades on the council, she championed historic preservation and community initiatives, including helping establish the Arthur D. Curtis Children’s Justice Center. As curator of the Clark County Historical Museum, she inspired countless residents with her deep love of local history. Jollota is the author of numerous books, including Naming Clark County, The Murder of JoAnn Dewey in Vancouver, Washington, and Haunted Vancouver. Recognized as Clark County’s First Citizen in 2012, she continues to be celebrated for preserving the stories that define our community.
