About Us
The Washington State Historical Society is a non-profit 501(c)3 membership organization, open to any and all individuals, families, or firms. The Society is also recognized in statute (RCW 27.34) as a trustee agency of the state of Washington with enumerated powers.
Founded in 1891 and now into its second century of service, the Washington State Historical Society is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and vividly presenting Washington's rich and varied history. The Historical Society is comprised of a family of museums and research centers, offering a variety of services to researchers, historians, scholars, and the lifelong learners.
By connecting personal, local, regional, and national stories to the universality of the human experience, and collecting materials from our state that help tell those stories, we will make the Washington State Historical Society indispensable to the people of Washington and a vital part of state government.
The Historical Society is governed by our Board of Trustees, which includes seven public officials (the Governor, Secretary of State, Superintendent of Public Instruction and four state legislators) who serve ex officio. Trustees (excepting statewide elected officials) are limited to three three-year terms, the officers (President, Vice Presidents for western and eastern Washington and the Treasurer) are limited to two three-year terms. The director is appointed by, and serves at the pleasure of, the board and functions as the corporate secretary
Vision
To be Washington's flagship historical organization offering resources and services to citizens, visitors, and others interested in our state's history.
Mission
By connecting personal, local, regional, and national stories to the universality of the human experience, and collecting materials from our state that help tell those stories, we will make the Washington State Historical Society indispensable to the people of Washington and a vital part of state government.
