IN THE CITY OF ELLENSBURG… when you want to spend some time indoors, a great place to visit is the KITTITAS VALLEY HISTORICAL MUSEUM. It has about 30,000 items from which more than 50 exhibits and displays are chosen. The mission of the museum is to, “Collect, Preserve and Share the History, Heritage, and Culture of Kittitas County.” In experiencing it you feel a strong connection to the Pacific Northwest.
Collection highlights include:
- Indigenous cultural items (especially from the K’tɨ́taas and Pshwánapam bands). Note the roots here for the local names of Kittitas and Wanapum.
- Geological specimens, including Ellensburg Blue Agate
- Some fossilized animals
- Household goods, textiles, and furnishings
- Military memorabilia and service records
- Historic photographs and albums
- Agricultural tools and equipment
- Business records and local commerce material
Even the building itself is interesting. Built of brick, it was constructed after the Great Ellensburg Fire of July 4, 1889. (There is an exhibit about that fire and its devastation to the town).
Some examples of what you will see:
So, if you are so inclined, spend some
time and enjoy.
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
The address is 114 E. 3rd Ave. Ellensburg
Admission is free and donations are accepted.
Article by Mike Doran: President of the Ellensburg Chapter of the Ice Age Floods Institute