Issaquah History Museums Celebrates 40th Anniversary on October 13th

Forty years ago, a group of residents came together to create an organization dedicated to discovering, preserving, and sharing Issaquah’s remarkable history. On Saturday, October 13, the Issaquah History Museums will host a special program celebrating its anniversary. The program will feature an engaging presentation on the history of the organization, festive food and drink, and live entertainment. The event will take place at the Issaquah Depot (150 1^ST Avenue NE) and will start at 11 AM. This event is free to the public, but we ask that guests please RSVP to us at 425/392-3500 or at rsvp@issaquahhistory.org.

Thirty-two residents formed the Issaquah History Society in 1972. In 2004, the organization became the Issaquah History Museums. Today, more than 300 active members support an organization that has become integral to the community’s cultural identity while engaging tourists and meeting educational and research needs.

The Issaquah History Museums’ primary goal is to document, protect, and interpret historic artifacts, sites, and information.  The organization has collected, cataloged, and preserved a large collection that represents the broad range of Issaquah’s unique history. The Museums have made this collection available to the public through a research center, permanent and temporary displays, digital services, and programs that promote local history and heritage to community members and visitors alike. The museum has also established itself as a valuable partner to the school district and other educational organizations that rely on Issaquah History Museums for programs and materials that support local curriculum requirements.

“Part of what makes Issaquah so special is our fascinating history,” said Mayor Ava Frisinger. “Our community is extremely lucky to have such a wonderful group of people at the Issaquah History Museums to help us preserve, research, and remember the past.”

“On behalf of the Greater Issaquah business community, the Chamber extends our congratulations to the Issaquah History Museums for its 40 years of preserving, promoting, and supporting Issaquah’s unique history,” said Matthew Bott, CEO of the Greater Issaquah Chamber of Commerce. “The organization plays an important role in enriching our community, preserving our unique northwest heritage, and supporting our quality of life. A strong “sense of place” is important to the business community, and we appreciate all that the History Museums have done to contribute to Issaquah’s identity over the years. On this 40^th Anniversary, we congratulate the History Museums’ staff, board, and volunteers and thank them for their substantial contributions towards telling the story of Issaquah’s past.”

“Reaching a 40 is a remarkable event for us,” said Erica Maniez, Director of the Issaquah History Museums.  “For nearly thirty years, the organization was operated by a group of volunteers on a shoestring budget. Thanks to support from the City of Issaquah, 4Culture and community funders, we’ve expanded our open hours, rebuilt exhibits, added a variety of family programs, and made our collection more accessible. It’s exciting to think about the possibilities ahead.”

For the anniversary celebration, Erica Maniez, Director of the Issaquah History Museums, will provide a lively overview of the history of the Issaquah History Museums and plans for the organization’s future. After the presentation, attendees will enjoy a variety of cakes from the vintage recipe collections of Issaquah pioneers and notable residents. The Essie Blue Band will entertain guests with traditional old-time fiddle, bluegrass, and country music. All are welcome to share in the fun!

Please contact the Issaquah History Museums for more information on this event, or to learn about volunteer opportunities (425/392-3500 or info@issaquahhistory.org).