From technology to geology, discover the secrets of Washington in our museum’s galleries.
Enjoy a
self-guided exploration of the stories, spirit, and soul of the Evergreen state as you visit the
scenic three-museum district and the beautiful Tacoma waterfront.
Can’t bring your students to the museum? Bring the museum to your students! With artifacts, images,
and curricular materials, our
History Boxes
are a great way to bring our collections to your classroom.
Looking for fun ways to teach social studies? Searching for clock hour opportunities?
Teacher training is one of the most important things we do at the Education Department –
check out what’s coming up on our
Teacher Programs’ webpage!
Our
lesson plans, comprised of background essays, primary source documents, and
interactive activity for young learners provide a multitude of opportunities to examine
both Washington and U.S. history. Not just social studies, many of our curricula integrate
with art, science, language arts, and even mathematics to help you
fulfill state and local requirements.
Written especially for kids up to age 14,
COLUMBIAkids features amazing people, places, and objects from the Pacific Northwest's past. With
exciting stories and special departments such as "One Day in History," "Homework Helper," and "Northwest Hotspot,"
COLUMBIAkids is not only a great read for children, it’s a fabulous resource for teachers who want to integrate reading,
writing, and Pacific Northwest history.
Volunteers at the Washington State Historical Society (WSHS) play a valuable role as an extension
of museum staff. Join us and help visitors receive the services of a teacher, motivator, actor,
information specialist, and museum representative.
History Day invites students into the exciting work of historians - detectives who
delve into the past. Along the way, they develop research, analysis, presentation and
social skills. Now in its 27th year nationally, History Day has proven to be an invaluable
way to introduce participants to the techniques of historical inquiry and the importance of
history in everyday life.