#CCHMuseum After Hours - Northwest Battle Buddies
2025-02-07 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
The Clark County Historical Museum is thrilled to partner with Northwest Battle Buddies for Vancouver’s Downtown Association First Friday Artwalk on Friday, February 7. Join us for a special evening of free admission to the museum, where you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the incredible work of Northwest Battle Buddies. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to pairing Pacific Northwest veterans with trained service dogs to help support their well-being. Come explore the museum’s exhibits and discover more about this inspiring mission—admission is free from 5 PM to 8 PM. We look forward to seeing you there!

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.

Big Apples, Big Business: How Washington Became the Apple State
2025-03-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Fourth Plain Community Commons, 3101 E 4th Plain Blvd Ste.101, Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
The Clark County Historic Museum is pleased to present “Big Apples, Big Business: How Washington Became the Apple State” through the generous support of the Humanities Washington Speakers Bureau and Fourth Plain Community Commons.
Join us for an engaging presentation by Amanda Van Lanen, where we will explore the fascinating history of Washington state’s apple industry. Learn how Washington became the top apple-producing state in the U.S. and how it transformed apples into an industrialized commodity.
“Big Apples, Big Business” delves into the roles of scientists, investors, irrigators, railroad corporations, marketers, and apple growers in shaping Washington’s apple industry. Discover how the state’s commitment to innovation and agriculture made its apples not just a regional product, but a national powerhouse.
Thursday, March 6, 2025
7 PM, Doors open at 6 PM
Location: Fourth Plain Community Commons
3101 E Fourth Plain BlvdVancouver, WA 98661
Cost: Free

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.

They Want Our Rhythm, But Not Our Blues: African American Innovation Through Pop Culture
2025-04-04 19:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
The Clark County Historical Museum is excited to present “They Want Our Rhythm, But Not Our Blues: African American Innovation Through Pop Culture,” a thought-provoking lecture by LaToya Brackett presented through the generous support of the Humanities Washington Speakers Bureau . This event is part of the CCHM Speaker Series and will explore the profound impact of African American culture on popular culture, from music to sports, language, food, and more.
Date: Friday, April 4, 2025Time: 7:00 PM (Doors open at 5:00 PM)Location: Clark County Historical Museum1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 978660
Admission: FREE

Event Details
African Americans have long faced the oppression of freedom and expression. Yet, they have consistently demonstrated remarkable creativity, building a vibrant culture from the struggles and barriers they faced. Their innovations, born of necessity and resilience, have shaped mainstream pop culture—but often, these contributions have been appropriated by those who do not fully understand or embrace the hardships from which they emerged. “They Want Our Rhythm, But Not Our Blues” explores this dynamic, asking us to consider how African American culture is shaped by both the joys and the pain of its people.
LaToya Brackett’s presentation will dive into the intersections of African American culture across music, sports, language, food, and even hair. This lecture calls on the audience to look beyond the rhythm to recognize the blues that lie beneath, appreciating the rich, layered history of Black pop culture. Through this exploration, LaToya will shed light on how African American culture is not just an influence but a vital and complex part of modern pop culture, represented through unique artistic styles and expressions.

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 Speaker Series: The Union Makes us Stronger - Labor History in Clark County and the Pacific Northwest
2025-05-01 19:00 - 20:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Join us on May Day—International Workers’ Day—for a fascinating talk with Dr. Laurie Mercier, as we explore how labor unions and working people have shaped the history of Clark County and the broader Pacific Northwest.

Dr. Mercier will delve into the rich and often surprising history uncovered during the creation of the Labor: A Working History exhibit at CCHM. From early struggles for better working conditions to the fight for the eight-hour day, discover how our local history ties into global movements for workers’ rights.
Laurie Mercier is the Claudius O. and Mary W. Johnson Distinguished Professor of History at Washington State University Vancouver, where since 1995 she has taught the history of the United States, the Pacific Northwest, immigration and migration, women, and labor. She is former associate director of the Center for Columbia River History, a former president of the Oral History Association, former co-director of the WSUV Center for Social and Environmental Justice, and co-director of the WSUV Columbia River Basin Ethnic History Archive project:
https://content.libraries.wsu.edu/…/cchm/custom/crbasin.

Mercier has authored numerous publications that explore the intersections of class, race, gender, and region, and about memory and oral history, including the books Speaking History: The American Past through Oral Histories, 1865-2001; Mining Women: Gender in the Development of a Global Industry, 1670-2000; and Anaconda: Labor, Community, and Culture in Montana’s Smelter City. Over the years she has collaborated often with the Museum, including co-curating the exhibits Labor: A Working History (2013-15)
To view the exhibit (and other past exhibits) – https://cchmuseum.org/digital-exhibits/
and Bridging the Gap: the History of the I-5 Columbia River Bridge (2011-12).

This event is free and open to the public

#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.

History on Tap: First Families - The Next Generation of Vancouver's African American Community
2025-05-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main Street, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
The Clark County Historical Museum presents History on Tap: Vancouver’s First Black Families with Melissa Williams
Historian Melissa Williams will share the story of housing and Vancouver’s African American community from 1940-1960. Learn how Black families made Southwest Washington their home during wartime, what factors pushed many out of the area after the war, and about the lasting contributions these first Black residents made to Vancouver.
Melissa Williams (she/her) is a U.S. historian who concentrates on African American history. Over the past 20 years, she has contributed to numerous projects for organizations and educational institutions including the Center for Columbia River History, Vancouver NAACP #1139, the Clark County Historical Museum, and Portland State University. Williams earned a B.A. in History from the University of Washington and an M.A. in Public History from Washington State University Vancouver. She is a doctoral student for Educational Leadership at Portland State University and currently serves as Policy Associate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion for the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.
Event Details:

Date & Time: Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.)
Location: Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St, Vancouver, WA
Admission: Free for CCHM members | $5 in advance for general public | $10 at the door

The 2025 History on Tap season is presented by Vancouver’s Downtown Association, with sponsorship from Heritage Bank and program support provided by Versa Events. This installment is sponsored by C-Tran, The Arts Centered, the Clark College Foundation, and Fourth Plain Forward.
About the Clark County Historical Museum:
The Clark County Historical Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history of Clark County, Washington. The museum offers a range of exhibits, events, and programs throughout the year to engage the public in learning about the area’s past.
Tickets available here.

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/

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 | Washington
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
