Discover the stories that connect us to our past in the place that tells them best.
Life in Washington prior to the arrival of European and American explorers, hardships of travel on the
Oregon
Trail, earning a living on the Wageworkers Frontier—these are some of the stories of Washington's past told in
a permanent exhibit at the Washington State History Museum. And the ways these stories are told vary as much as the
stories themselves.
Thirty-five different human sculptures share their stories through interactive audio and video programs describing the
life as a "timber beast," a railroad worker, or a fisherman on the Columbia River. Six touch-screen
Electronic Journals add depth to the ideas and stories presented throughout the museum.
Through these exhibit components, as well as artifacts, knowledgeable gallery interpreters, and the
"you are there" aspect of many exhibit panels, museum guests become immersed in the past
of Washington state. More than 20,000 students visit the museum on field trips every year to learn Washington
history. Many of them return at a later date with their parents.
For photos and information about this educational and entertaining Smithsonian-quality exhibit, take a virtual tour of the
exhibit.
If you are an educator, and you'd like to bring your class to the Great Hall of Washington History, please complete our
online reservation form.
Take a tour of the Great Hall
Natural Settings
Encounters: Washington's First People
Petroglyph Theater and Native Heritage
Frontier Towns and Railroads
Wageworkers Frontier and Shingleweaving Station
Hard Times and Homefront
Columbia River and Modern Washington
Inviting the Spirit Gallery
Be sure to visit the Fun Facts about the Washington State History Museum page.