Friday Five: Harbor Museums

Get a little closer to our area's heritage this weekend by visiting one of these five museums that work hard to preserve the local area’s rich history in the various industries our community has been built around. Historical displays in logging, shipping, rail and early life on the Harbor are all available at these five fine establishments. You didn’t even know we had five museums on the Harbor? Then you’ll be blown away to know that there are actually a few more! Go get your history on this weekend, Grays Harbor!

Photo courtesy of Aberdeen History Museum

1)      Aberdeen History Museum

111 East Third Street
Aberdeen, Washington 98520
 (360) 533-1976 

Who hasn’t been here at least once over the years for a school trip or special event? Yeah, that one time when you were 12 was a long time ago, but the place pretty much looks the same. I love the town-in-a-building layout of the exhibits that help depict Aberdeen’s rich history based in logging and industry. The old photographs on display alone are captivating. This also happens to make a great, unique location for special events like special interest seminars, auctions, receptions and reunions for Aberdeen or harbor based organizations. Hours are 10am - 5pm on Tues-Sat and 12p-4p on Sun. Admission is free, however, suggested donations are: Families  $5.00,  Individuals  $2.00,  Students and Seniors  $1.00  

photo courtesy of City of Hoquiam

2)      Polson Museum

1611 Riverside Avenue

Hoquiam WA

360-533-5862

A National Historic Site, this museum is housed in a 6,500 mansion circa 1924 that I wouldn’t mind calling home. But I suppose housing Grays Harbor’s history is a higher calling for this beautiful building. The exhibits span 17 rooms of the house and another “Railroad Camp” building on the property that is in progress. This museum boasts that it contains the most extensive collection of Grays Harbor history, so if you’re looking to learn a thing or two about your hometown a visit here is in order. Did I mention something earlier about old photographs? Well, this place has over 12,000! Hours are 11a-4p Wed-Sat, and 12p-4p Sun. Admission is: Families $10, Adults $4, Students $2 and Under 12 $1

3)      Quinault Cultural Center

Tahola beachscape.

807 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1

Tahola WA

360-276-8215 x245

Learn about the history of the Quinault Indian Nation through photographs, artifacts and historical documents at this small museum in Tahola. As one of the most successful hunter gatherer peoples, the Quinault Indians lived off the land for thousands of years along the coast of Washington. The tribal library is also housed here with various books published by Quinault Indian Nation members, and also a bevy of electronic information that’s available to browse on the five computer stations. Hours are 8am – 4:30p Mon-Fri, but it’s highly recommended to call ahead of time.

photo courtesy of Chehalis Valley Museum

4)      Chehalis Valley Museum

703 West Pioneer Avenue

Montesano WA

360-249-5800

This museum has charged itself with the mission of preserving the history of the Chehalis Valley from Oakville to Aberdeen. Which means a whole ‘lotta country life artifacts. Housed in a former church, this museum features a collection of logging equipment, old fashioned housewares, local family geneology information and more. I love east county, so this museum hits the spot for me. Hours are 12p-4p Sat & Sun. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted.

5)      Westport Maritime Museum

The whale skeleton on display at the
Westport Maritime Museum

2201 Westhaven Drive

Westport WA

360-268-0078

This is, by far, my favorite place of history in Grays Harbor. An old Coast Guard compound, this museum is housed in 5 buildings right on the docks in Westport. Exhibits center around all things coastal such as beach coming, sea life, whaling, shipwrecks, local maritime history and more. The magnificent Destruction Island lighthouse lens is on display and nothing beats the gigantic whale skeleton. It’s impressive every time I visit. Don't forget to drive down the road and visit the lighthouse while you're in the area! Hours are 10a-4p daily. Admission is Adult $5, Children $2, Under 5 Free.