Clark County Historical Museum

Wander Clark County: Downtown Camas
2023-07-29 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | NE 4th and Adams, 401 NE Adams Ave, Camas, 98607
Started as a company town in 1883 for what would become the Papermakers, Camas is one of the few towns in Clark County that was designed and built with such a purpose in mind. Take a step back with us as we examine Camas’ historic downtown and learn of the businesses and residents that called this place home.

Wander Clark County summer walking tour series occurs most Saturdays at 9am from June through august. For a full list of tours go to cchmuseum.org/programs-events/walking-tours.

Wander Clark County: Arnada Neighborhood
2023-07-22 09:00 - 11:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
From beautiful Craftsman homes to towering Gothic churches, the residential neighborhoods of downtown Vancouver are full of wondrous sights and stories. This Saturday we’ll explore one of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods, Arnada.

Wander Clark County summer walking tour series occurs most Saturdays from June thru August at 9am. For a full list of tours go to cchmuseum.org/programs-events/walking-tours.

History on Tap
2023-07-20 19:00 - 21:00 | WA
Clark County Historical Museum welcomes historian and author Katrine Barber to the History on Tap stage on Thursday, July 20, 2023 with “Identity and the New Thought Philosophy: A Look at Alzamon Ira Lucas.” The program will explore the life of New Thought spiritualist and lecturer, Alzamon Ira Lucas, and the importance of New Thought in Black religious life.
This year’s History on Tap is presented by My Family Guide. Special thanks to sponsor the Historical Music Preservation Project. Program Support provided by Versa Events.

Vancouver Writers Guild Workshop
2023-07-20 18:30 - 19:30, 2023-06-15 18:30 - 19:30, 2023-04-20 18:30 - 19:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

Covington House Open House
2023-07-16 12:00 - 15:00, 2023-06-18 12:00 - 15:00 | Historic Covington House, 4201 Main St, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

Wander Clark County: Washougal Memorial Cemetery
2023-07-15 09:00 - 11:00 | Washougal Memorial Cemetery, 3329 Q Street, Washougal, WA, United States
Summer is the right time to wander through and learn the stories of people who have lived, worked, and carved out their place in Clark County. Our history tours offer a fascinating glimpse through the windows of time, offering a mix of memories, research, and architectural details.
For each tour, guides will lead up to 25 people for approximately a mile, making 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.

Tour are held most Saturdays throughout the summer. Each weekend highlights a different destination.

North Clark Historical Museum: Interpretive Plaque Dedication
2023-07-09 14:00 - 15:00 | North Clark Historical Museum, 21416 NE 399th St, Amboy, 98601
The North Clark Historical Museum (NCHM) in partnership with the Hannah Mayhew Daggett Chapter, National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century, in Vancouver, Washington (CDXVIIC) and the Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) will dedicate a new historical interpretive plaque at the North Clark Historical Museum (21416 NE 399th St, Amboy, WA 98601) on Sunday, July 9, 2023 at 2:00 pm.

The event will include a welcome and dedication by North Clark Historical Museum Board President Debi Zitt, remarks from Cynthia Swanson, State Marking & Preservation Chair of CDXVIIC, and brief comments from the Clark County Historical Museum Executive Director Brad Richardson. This new historical interpretive plaque highlights the important history of the Amboy United Brethren Church which houses the North Clark Historical Museum.
The Museum in upper Amboy that looks like a church holds many secrets from the past. Once a church built in 1910, it is presently the home of many relics of the northwest. In 1988 a few concerned Amboy residents rescued the church from the wrecking ball and filled it with treasures of the past for all to enjoy. In addition to the inside exhibits a number of outdoor exhibits have been added. Less than a one-hour drive from I-5 via Vancouver, Battle Ground, or Woodland, the scenic drive is well worth it.

In the midst of the natural beauties of North Clark County Washington, the Museum delightfully compliments fishing, camping, boating, hiking, and many other attractions. In Yacolt, enjoy a ride on one of the last steam driven railroads in the country. An hour north, you can visit the south rim of Mount St. Helens. Ask at the Museum for directions to marvelous local attractions you can visit.

This plaque is a product of the CCHM Historic Buildings Plaque Program, which is designed to provide interpretive plaques for buildings, structures, and/or locations. Sites are selected by the CCHM and their partners and must be recognized on local, state, and/or national registers of historic places. Funds for this program are provided by the Courtney Irvin Foundation and require a match. The Hannah Mayhew Daggett Chapter, National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century, in Vancouver, Washington have generously provided the match for this plaque.

Wander Clark County: Parkersville SOLD OUT
2023-07-08 09:00 - 11:00 | Parker’s Landing National Historic Site, 24 S A St, Washougal, WA, 98671
One of the oldest incorporated communities, Parker’s Landing began in 1845 when David C. Parker staked his claim amongst the Chinook-speaking Indigenous community and named the area Parkersville. By the 1870s, merchants had purchased much of the land neighboring Parkersville, giving rise to the community known today as Washougal.

Wander Clark County summer walking tour series occurs most Saturdays from June thru August at 9am. For a full list of tours go to cchmuseum.org/programs-events/walking-tours.

#CCHM After Hours: Vancouver Sign Co @ 100
2023-07-07 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 After Hours!
This month, join Vancouver Sign Co. as they celebrate 100 years of bringing some of the most iconic signs to Vancouver’s landscape. The evening will include a pop-up exhibit featuring artifacts highlighting the company’s history and a special birthday celebration.

Behind the Scenes: CCHM Collections Show & Tell
2023-07-06 19:00 - 20:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Clark County Historical Museum invites the public to join CCHM collections manager, Liza Schade, as she presents “Behind the Scenes: CCHM Collections Show & Tell” for July’s CCHM Speaker Series. The event will occur on Thursday, July 6, 2023 in person at the Clark County Historical Museum (1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660). Doors open at 6 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m.
For nearly 60 years the Clark County Historical Museum has been encouraging an understanding of how local history shapes the character of Clark County and strengthens our sense of place. As the County’s memory keepers, CCHM has collected and preserved over 60,000 items of local historical significance during this time. Our collection of artifacts, images, archival materials, and oral histories includes a variety of objects, although only a portion are on view at the museum.
In this presentation, learn more about how CCHM cares for our collection through preservation and public access; see some of the interesting and newest donations; and find out how we use these treasures to inform people about the region’s heritage and its importance in their daily lives.

Museum Closed
2023-07-04 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
We will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. Have a safe and fun holiday!

Wander Clark County: Esther Short Neighborhood SOLD OUT
2023-07-01 09:00 - 11:00 | Slocum House, 605 Esther Street, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
From beautiful Craftsman homes to towering Gothic churches, the residential neighborhoods of downtown Vancouver are full of wondrous sights and stories. This Saturday we’ll explore one of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods, Esther Short.
Wander Clark County summer walking tour series occurs most Saturdays from June thru August at 9am. For a full list of tours go to cchmuseum.org/programs-events/walking-tours.

CCHMuseum @ Heroes Night
2023-06-24 15:00 - 19:00 | Pearson Air Museum, 1115 E 5th St, Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
#CCHMuseum is excited to be part of this event celebrating our community’s veterans and first responders. Enjoy a free, family-friendly time of music, food, and a car show!
Stop by our booth during the event to enter to win a History of Clark County gift basket. Basket includes an annual family-level membership.

Wander Clark County: Downtown Vancouver (WA) SOLD OUT
2023-06-24 09:00 - 11:00 | Corner of 5th & Main Streets, 500 Main St, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Take a tour through the notable buildings and events in the history of Downtown Vancouver, Washington.
Wander Clark County summer walking tour series occurs most Saturdays from June thru August at 9am. For a full list of tours go to cchmuseum.org/programs-events/walking-tours.

CCHM @ Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
2023-06-17 13:00 - 19:00 | Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

Wander Clark County: Old City Cemetery SOLD OUT
2023-06-17 09:00 - 11:00 | Old City Cemetery, 2700 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA, 98661
Whether you are a history buff, love funerary art, or are just curious about the people who shaped this community, a visit to historic Old City Cemetery is a treat! Join Clark County Historical Museum as we explore one of the city’s earliest cemeteries. Hear the stories of the visionaries who built Vancouver – their struggles and triumphs in building a new life for their families.
Wander Clark County summer walking tour series occurs most Saturdays from June thru August at 9am. For a full list of tours go to Wander Clark County: Historic Walking Tours.

2023 CCHM Gala & Fundraiser: Casino Royale
2023-06-10 17:00 - 20:00 | Summit Grove Lodge

Pride Block Party with QYRC & Dandelion Teahouse
2023-06-10 13:00 - 19:00 | Dandelion Teahouse & Apothecary, 109 West 7th Street, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

CCHM Closed
2023-06-10 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States

Clark County Pride Rainbow Walk
2023-06-04 11:00 - 16:00 | Holley Park, 1000 East 4th St, La Center, WA, 98629, United States

CCHM @ Parkersville Day
2023-06-03 12:00 - 15:00 | Parkers Landing, 24 S A Street, Washougal, WA, 98671, United States

#CCHM After Hours Open House
2023-06-02 17:00 - 20:00, 2023-05-05 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 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.

A Search for Acceptance: The Joys and Challenges of Clark County's LGBTQ+ Community from Early Contact Through Today
2023-06-01 19:00 - 20:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
From the life and times of Kutenai spiritual leader, Kocomenepeca, through the waves of public “hysteria” over homosexuality throughout the 1900s and the tragedy of Nikki Kuhnhausen in 2019, Clark County’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning population has long found themselves the target for criminalization, victimization, and erasure. Yet, in spite of the challenges they have built a strong and vibrant community in Clark County that celebrates its rich history. With each setback, they have continued to persevere and push for the protections and rights afforded the “straight” community. In this talk, April will look at the history of the LGBTQ+ community in Clark County – both their struggles and their victories.

The Historic Music Preservation Project: Preserving Historic Music for Future Generations
2023-05-04 19:00 - 20:30 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Clark County Historical Museum and the Historic Music Preservation Project (HMPP), are excited to have Sammuel Murry-Hawkins, HMPP Executive Director, present “The Historic Music Preservation Project: Preserving Historic Music for Future Generations” for this month’s CCHM Speaker Series. The event will occur on Thursday, May 4, 2023 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.
The Historic Music Preservation Project is dedicated to the preservation and cataloging of historic popular dance sheet music published between 1880 and 1955.
The organization is the sole curator of the historic Herman Kenin Dance Band Library, a 4000+ title collection once in the possession of the famous Portland dance band leader.
The Historic Music Preservation Project’s commitment to introducing this music to a new audience is achieved through the performance of The Ne Plus Ultra Jazz Orchestra, an 11 piece ensemble which presents this music exactly as it was heard in its heyday. The organization also presents a quartet, Ensemble Gitane, performing music from the collection is the hot jazz style of Django Reinhardt.
Sammuel’s musical interests were cultivated as a child. At age 10 his parents purchased a flute for the budding musician, and this would remain his primary instrument until age 25, when Sammuel purchased his first banjo ukulele. With this controversial conversion from classical culture to an instrument better suited to the comic tunes of the 1920s, it became obvious that a period of music hitherto unknown to the young man would shape his musical career as well as his personal life. Classically trained in voice in addition to flute, Sammuel’s period sound has been influenced largely by Joey Nash, Rudy Vallee, and Russ Colombo.
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.

GiveBig!
2023-05-02 - 2023-05-03 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
History is a part of us all. It can help us understand where the world around us began and how it influences us today. It gives us understanding. The events, workshops, programs, and exhibits that our museum hosts go beyond just the artifacts.
Help us keep history alive to share with generations to come. Donate today!

I am Also Entitled to be Recognized: The Journey of Moses Williams, Buffalo Soldier
2023-04-20 19:00 - 21:00 | Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
Clark County Historical Museum kicks off its 2023 History on Tap season at the Kiggins Theatre on Thursday, Apr. 20, 2023 with historian Gregory P. Shine presenting “I am Also Entitled to be Recognized: The Journey of Moses Williams, Buffalo Soldier.” The program will explore the life, military service, and Pacific Northwest connections of Sgt. Moses Williams – a decorated Buffalo Soldier and Medal of Honor recipient – and share new research that sheds light on key turning points in Williams’ fascinating life.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m.
Williams, a nineteenth century U.S. Army soldier who served in the Ninth U.S. Cavalry – one of four all-African American regiments known as Buffalo Soldiers – and at several western posts as an ordnance sergeant, is buried in the Vancouver Barracks post cemetery. As Shine’s program will illustrate, Williams’ journey from rural Louisiana, through assignments at remote forts in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, Nebraska, and Oregon, reveals much about the history of the American West.
Gregory P. Shine is a historian, writer and educator who has been connecting people to the history of the American West for over 30 years. Throughout his career, Greg has worked for the U.S. National Park Service – including 14 years locally as the chief ranger and historian at Fort Vancouver N.H.S. – and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, where he currently leads the agency’s national Interpretation program. Greg also taught history at Portland State University for nearly a decade. An active community volunteer, he is a longstanding member of the editorial board of the Oregon Encyclopedia, a project of the Oregon Historical Society. Greg is a popular speaker on topics related to Pacific Northwest history and has appeared on episodes of PBS’s History Detectives and OPB’s Oregon Experience. Most recently, Greg was a consulting historian to the documentary film Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts.
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 Passages to Success crew battle for the title of “King of Trivia” during Clark County Trivia.
Admission to History on Tap is $15 in advance/$12 for CCHM Members, $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 My Family Guide. Program support provided by Versa Events.
More About Moses Williams
To learn more about Moses Williams, the Buffalo Soldiers at Vancouver Barracks and in the Pacific Northwest, the history of Blacks in Oregon, and related topics, visit the Oregon Encyclopedia online at https://oregonencyclopedia.org.
