Clark County Historical Museum

Museum Closed
2023-03-04 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Clark County Historical Museum will be closed as staff participates as judges in the Southwest Washington History Day Competition. We will reopen at 11am on Tuesday, March 7, 2023.

#CCHM After Hours Open House
2023-03-03 17:00 - 20:00, 2023-02-03 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Have you ever wondered where the PNW’s love for hops and IPAs began? Or who was the first female riverboat captain on the Columbia? Have fun and meet others every First Friday while exploring our community’s history during #CCHMuseum After Hours!
Each monthly event showcases a different theme with experiences such as pop-up exhibits, workshops, live performances, author readings, and more. While you’re here, be sure to explore our award winning exhibits to learn about the women who helped build the Clark County or dance through the history of music in our community.

Defending Democracy: Founding of League of Women Voters in Clark County
2023-03-02 19:00 - 20:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Clark County Historical Museum continues its 2023 Speaker Series on Thursday, March 2, with “Defending Democracy: Founding of League of Women Voters in Clark County.” The event will occur in person at the Clark County Historical Museum (1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660). Doors open at 5 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m.
On the heels of the ratification of the 19th Amendment which gave women the right to vote in 1920, feisty Ruth Karr McKee gathered Vancouver’s key women activists to found the League of Women Voters of Clark County (LWVCC). Join LWVCC members, Liz Backstrom and Tracy Reilly Kelly, as they explore this astonishing advocate, as well as what the early League did for progressive, non-partisan action. Their discussion will cover 1920 up to the early World War II years.
Tracy Reilly Kelly retired as Program Manager of Community Education at Clark College. Initially a history major, Tracy received her BA in Human Services from Evergreen State College and an MS in Teaching Health Education at Portland State University. In 2008, Tracy was honored as a Woman of Achievement by the YWCA of Clark County and Clark College. She currently teaches at Clark part-time.
Elizabeth Backstrom is the Director of Grants and Contracts for YWCA Spokane, working remotely and enjoying life in Vancouver. She majored in journalism at Western Washington University and earned an MPA at Eastern Washington University. She enjoys reading, writing, and history. As a night owl, she gets through the day on coffee, humor, and sheer determination. She joined the LWVCC in August 2021 because of a longtime passion for voting rights and a belief that with enough effort, democracy can work for everyone.
The CCHM Speaker Series is sponsored by the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission and League of Women Voters of Clark County. General admission is $5; seniors and students are $4; children under 18 are $3; and the evening is free for CCHM members, veterans, and active-duty military personnel.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as seating is limited.
For more information, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.

Museum Closed Sat, March 4, 2023
2023-02-28 08:00 - 17:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
#CCHMuseum will be closed Saturday, March 4th as staff volunteer at the Southwest WA History Day Competition. We will reopen at 11am on Tuesday, March 7th. Have a lovely weekend!

Vancouver Writers Guild Workshop
2023-02-16 18:30 - 19:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

Chkalov’s Transpolar Flight to Vancouver
2023-02-02 19:00 - 20:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Chkalov was a Soviet Pilot who, when attempting to fly from Moscow to Oakland, had to emergency land at Pearson Airfield in 1937. During this month’s presentation, Columbia River High School student, Luke Hildreth, will be presenting the findings of his History Extended Essay, in which he explores the question, “How significant was Chkalov’s flight to Vancouver and what was its significance on politics, culture, and aviation in both the Soviet Union and America?”

The 1930s Northwest Aviators with David Hedberg
2022-12-01 19:00 - 21:00 | WA
In the 1930s, barnstorming, or “Air Circus”, tours swept through the nation introducing the fledgling aviation industry to the general public through aeronautic feats and challenges. The Northwest Air Tour was one such group that traveled throughout Oregon and Washington promoting aviation to the masses.
In our final History on Tap of the 2022 season, founder and principal historian of Outdoor History Consulting, David Hedberg, looks at the people behind this story and how the environment of the sky and early aviation transcended race, class, and gender identities.
Before the main event, see if you can figure out which tidbits of history are true and which ones are fake in our newest segment, “A History and A Lie”. And watch as the team from passages to Success continue their battle for the title of “King of Trivia” during Clark County Trivia.
Admission to History on Tap is $15 in advance, $18 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the Kiggins Theatre Box Office or online at kigginstheatre.com/movies/history-on-tap.
The History on Tap season is brought to you by Passages to Success. Special thanks to all our season sponsors Vancouver’s Downtown Association, Mickler & Associates, and Ryan Philbrook, Voice Overs. Program support provided by Wager Audio.
For more information, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.

Slocum House Exhibit Preview
2022-11-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Slocum House, 605 Esther Street, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
When: November 19th, 2022 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (Opening remarks at 6 pm.)
Where: Slocum House (605 Esther Street, Vancouver, WA 98660)
Cost: Free for CCHS Members (Limit 40 people)
What: Overshadowed by a concrete enclosure of modern developments, the Slocum House represents two moments in our city’s history. First, it is a dazzling vestige of a once wealthy residential neighborhood, busy with the city’s early elite. Second, the home, whose foundation is no longer situated on its original locale, stands as a haunting reminder of what happens when history stands in the path of revitalization and development. In our latest exhibit, to be located at the Slocum House, we explore the effect of Urban Renewal in the 1960s movement on the city’s story and character through the lens of the house.
Opening remarks at 6 pm. Limit 40 people.

Slocum House Exhibit Preview
Free
Buy now

2022 Annual Membership Meeting
2022-11-17 18:00 - 19:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join Clark County historical Museum at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, for our annual membership meeting and awards ceremony. CCHM Executive Director Brad Richardson will reflect on this year’s exhibits, programs, and events, and discuss what’s in store for 2022.
During the event, awards will also be presented to community members for their service in support of gathering, saving, and sharing Clark County history.

"Looking Back at the 1972 Tornado" with Steve Becker *Members Only Event*
2022-11-12 16:00 - 17:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
When: November 12th, 2022 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Where: Clark County Historical Museum (1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660)
Cost: Free for CCHS Members (Limit 50 people)
What: It was the biggest and most dramatic rescue in Clark County History – A tornado demolishes Peter S. Ogden Elementary School, injuring dozens of young children while trapping others in the rubble of the fallen brick structure. But moments later, an army of rescuers descended on the scene when dozens of students from nearby Fort Vancouver High School began picking through the rubble to rescue the children who, in some cases, their own siblings. The April 1972 tornado also demolished a bowling alley where a childcare attendant gave her life protecting the children entrusted to her. CCHM Member Steve Becker tells the story of that day and the countless acts of heroism that saved lives and inspired a generation of students at Fort Vancouver High School.

“Looking Back at the 1972 Tornado” with Steve Becker *Members Only Event*
Free
Buy now

"That's Entertainment" Walking Tour *Members Only Event*
2022-11-05 13:00 - 14:30 | Slocum House, 605 Esther Street, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
When: November 5th, 2022 from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm
Where: Slocum House (605 Esther St, Vancouver, WA 98660)
Cost: Free for CCHS Members (Limit 25 people)
What: Downtown Vancouver has a long history of music, theater, and art. In our newest tour, join CCHM as we explore a few of the stories and locations connected to this history.
FYI – This tour is open to members only and is limited to 25 people. The walking tour is approximately a mile, with frequent stops along the way to view buildings, tell stories, and answer questions. Good walking shoes and balance aids are recommended; terrain varies and consists mostly of city sidewalks.
Tours happen rain or shine, so please dress for the weather. Comfortable shoes and water are recommended. There are no restroom stops on the tours.
.

“That’s Entertainment” Walking Tour *Members Only Event*
Free
Buy now

Preserving History: The Historic Preservation Commission
2022-11-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
The CCHM Speaker Series wraps up it’s 2022 season on Thursday, November 3 with “Preserving History: The Historic Preservation Commission.” Join CCHM and members of the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission to learn more about the Commission, why preservation is so important, and how you can support HPC’s efforts to protect our historic and cultural resources. The event will occur in-person at the Clark County Historical Museum. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m.
The Clark County Historic Preservation Commission raises awareness of the county’s historic and cultural resources and serves as the county’s primary resource on historic preservation. The commission initiates and maintains the Clark County Historic Register and reviews proposed design changes to registered properties.
The CCHM Speaker Series is sponsored by the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission and Versa Events (formerly Wager Audio). General admission is $5; seniors and students are $4; children under 18 are $3; and the evening is free for CCHM members, veterans, and active-duty military personnel.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as seating is limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis.
For more information, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.

Haunted Walking Tour
2022-10-29 18:00 - 19:30, 2022-10-28 18:00 - 19:30, 2022-10-22 18:00 - 19:30, 2022-10-21 18:00 - 19:30, 2022-10-15 18:00 - 19:30, 2022-10-14 18:00 - 19:30, 2022-10-08 18:00 - 19:30, 2022-10-07 18:00 - 19:30 and 1 more date | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Tickets on Sale in September!

Campfire Tales 4: Bride of Couvenstein
2022-10-20 19:00 - 21:00 | WA

CCHMuseum After Hours
2022-10-07 17:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Every First Friday!

CCHM Speaker Series
2022-10-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Clark County Historical Museum’s 2022 Speaker Series continues on Thursday, October 6, with “A Promise Not Yet Fulfilled: The Chinook Struggle for Recognition” presented by Sam Robinson. The event will occur in-person at the Clark County Historical Museum. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m.
In 2001, the Chinook Nation rejoiced as the Federal Government finally recognized the Chinook Indian Nation as a sovereign entity of their own lands. This celebration was short lived as only a few months later the government rescinded their decision, leaving the Nation bereft of their right to determine their own future and barred from the resources that are crucial to the People’s survival. Unfortunately, this moment is only one of many injustices played out since the Treaty at Tansy Point in 1851.
In this talk, Chinook Indian Nation citizen and Vice Chair, Sam Robinson, explores the history of the Chinook People and their continued fight for Tribal Recognition. He’ll discuss the importance of recognition for Indigenous Nations, like the Chinook, and provide an insight into where their status stands today.
The CCHM Speaker Series is sponsored by the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission and Versa Events (formerly Wager Audio). General admission is $5; seniors and students are $4; children under 18 are $3; and the evening is free for CCHM members, veterans, and active-duty military personnel.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as seating is limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis.
For more information, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.

American Democracy’s Indigenous Roots and Future
2022-09-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main Street, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Purchase Your Ticket Now
NEW DATE!!! History books teach us that the Founding Fathers birthed American democracy, but do not reveal the Indigenous sources of inspiration that guided their vision. The Haudenosaunee Confederacy’s Great Law of Peace—uniting six Nations in an alliance that predates the American Constitution by centuries—served as a powerful example to men such as Benjamin Franklin, who benefited from the political guidance of Haudenosaunee leaders. Franklin directly cited the Law’s influence on the Constitution.
But even Franklin did not comprehend the political and spiritual power held by the clan mothers of these matriarchal societies, who were instrumental to building and maintaining a peaceful union. Join storyteller Fern Renville as she shares stories both mythic and personal that reframe and highlight the history, present, and future of Indigenous female power and leadership in America. Such stories include the Seneca story of The Peacemaker and the Dakota story of White Buffalo Calf Woman.
The 2022 History on Tap season is brought to you by Business Over Beer. Special thanks to our sponsors Humanities Washington, Vancouver’s Downtown Association, and Mickler & Associates. Program support provided by Versa Events (formerly Wager Audio).

Give More 24!
2022-09-22 00:00 - 23:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

CCHM @ Peace & Justice Fair
2022-09-10 09:00 - 16:00 | Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

Meet the Author: Jeff Davis
2022-09-02 17:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Have you ever wondered where the PNW’s love for hops and IPAs began? Or who was the first female riverboat captain on the Columbia? Have fun and meet others every First Friday while exploring our community’s history during #CCHMuseum AfterHours!
This month we’re welcoming historian and author, Jeff Davis, for a meet the author and book signing. Davis has written, edited, or contributed to several books on military history and pop culture. He is the author of Custer’s Other Brother-in-Law: The Orders Book of Lieutenant Frederick S. Calhoun as well as several books on paranormal lore in the Pacific Northwest.
Each AfterHours event showcases a different theme with experiences such as pop-up exhibits, workshops, live performances, author readings, and more. While you’re here, be sure to explore our award winning exhibits to learn about the women who helped build Clark County or dance through the history of music in our community.
Check out our website for detailed information on each month’s theme and activity.

Fourth Plain Forward: Building Community
2022-09-01 19:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Clark County Historical Museum’s 2022 Speaker Series continues on Thursday, September 1, with “Fourth Plain Forward: Building Community” presented by Fourth Plain Forward director, Paul Burgess, CCHM public historian, Katie Bush, and CCHM public history intern, Tanaka Axberg. The event will occur in-person at the Clark County Historical Museum. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m.
When people think of Vancouver, Washington, the city is often associated with a 19th century military fort, the Columbia River, and a connection to the Hudson’s Bay Company and the fur trade. Rarely are the stories of the neighborhoods developed during and post-World War II provided the same focus. Yet the people who lived, worked, and created these new communities in places such as Vancouver’s Fourth Plain Corridor are as intrinsic to the mosaic that is Vancouver today as those who first made contact with the Indigenous people of the region nearly 125 years ago.
Part of Clark County Stories, the Fourth Plain project is a collaboration between Fourth Plain Forward (FPF), Washington State University Vancouver (WSUV), and the Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) to shed light on these narratives. In this presentation, Burgess, Bush, and Axberg discuss the community’s history as well as current and future plans for the project.
Paul Burgess is the Executive Director for Fourth Plain Forward. He is an accomplished professional and leader in the social impact space with a successful track record of implementing and advancing complex development programs.
With five years of experience in the Global South managing complex international development programming, Paul has brought comprehensive leadership expertise of cross functional implementation, delivery and management to this role at Fourth Plain Forward.
Paul conceived of, and built the international consultancy www.cdvglobal.com/ to bring equity of opportunity to local communities and nonprofits and has 5 years experience of managing international leadership development programs for young people and over 4 years of middle and high school teaching education experience. Prior to leaving the UK in 2007, he was a senior operations manager in the UK Prison service, leading Safer Custody, anti-bullying and foreign nationals policy at HMP Pentonville in London.
Over his career, Paul has lived and worked in 10 countries spanning Asia, Europe, Latin America and North America.
Katie Bush joined CCHM as the museum’s public historian in April 2021. She holds a Masters in Public History from Portland State University (2021) and a Bachelors in History from Western Washington University (2012). Katie was the recipient of the 2020 Oregon Heritage Fellowship from the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office for her work on the policing of impoverished communities in Progressive era Portland. Katie is passionate about surfacing often overlooked or forgotten historical narratives, and looks forward to bringing this enthusiasm to her work at CCHM.
Tanaka Axberg has been a Vancouver resident since 2016. She graduated from WSUV in May of 2021 with her BA in History and recently finished her first year in the History Master’s Program at Portland State University. Tanka has been involved in and contributing to the Fourth Plain Forward project since it’s inception in 2020.
The CCHM Speaker Series is sponsored by the Clark County Historic Preservation Commission and Versa Events (formerly Wager Audio). General admission is $5; seniors and students are $4; children under 18 are $3; and the evening is free for CCHM members, veterans, and active-duty military personnel.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as seating is limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis.
For more information, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.
