Clark County Historical Museum

For 56 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. CCHM has collected and preserved over 60,000 items of local historical significance during this time. We use these treasures to inform people about the region’s heritage and its importance in their daily lives. Our purpose is to share an understanding of the past that will help to build a better future for generations to come.

But our work is about more than a collection of items from our distant past. We believe history is something that happens every day. Beyond the expected museum exhibits, you’ll find an ever growing list of events, workshops, tours, activities, and more designed around the belief that history is something that influences the world around us today.

Exhibits

Music, Movement and Sound: The concept that music reaches deep into our lives and community is at the core of our exciting new exhibit Music, Movement, and Sound: An Exploration of Clark County’s Musical Roots. This display is a family-friendly, educational, and inspirational exploration of Clark County’s musical roots and our community’s vibrant musical culture today.

Currents of Progress: “Currents of Progress” is a family-friendly and educational exploration of Clark County’s rivers, roads, and ports. By using interpretative panels, historical objects, interactive stations, and county-wide partnerships, visitors will discover and engage with the narrative and living history of these important systems in Clark County and Southwest Washington.

History A-Brewin': To showcase the fascinating history of beer, liquor, and the 100th anniversary of the 18th Amendment, "History A-Brewin'" explores brewing in the time of the Hudson’s Bay Company, the multitude of early breweries and brewers (such as Henry Weinhard), prohibition, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, Dry vs. Wet counties and states, the transformation of bars and pubs, and the contemporary brewing and distilling scene in Clark County.

(Her)Story: From time immemorial, women have played a major role in the building and growth of communities in Clark County and Southwest Washington. Today, many women in all facets of our community carry this legacy forward.In celebration of women’s history and the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, the Clark County Historical Museum is opening “(Her)Story: Founders, Leaders, and Visionaries,” an exhibit exploring the significant impact women have made on Clark County history.

Black History Highlights of Southwest Washington (outdoor gallery): Created by local historian and artist, Claudia Carter, for the NAACP #1139, this exhibit celebrates the vital contributions and stories of Southwest Washington’s Black community. The timeline explores the Black history of Clark County and Washington from early explorers to World War II to the present. The Vancouver NAACP hopes to inspire our youth, educate our community, and celebrate the accomplishments of Black people from Clark County. The timeline shares just a few stories of the many Black people who have contributed to this place we all call home.

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