Exhibits
The Kittitas County Historical Museum features many exhibits for the public to enjoy, spanning the history of Kittitas County from the distant past to the modern day.
There are six exhibit galleries, with different offerings in each one. Exhibits include early settler life, World War II, local businesses, farming, geological specimens, and much more.
Upcoming Exhibits
Constant changes are always afoot at the KCHM! New exhibits are underway for the summer months, including an expanded Native American basketry display and Rodeo exhibit. Other exhibits are being spruced up and made more cohesive and informative. Be sure to stop by and check out what your museum is up to!
New & Ongoing Exhibits
The Rollinger Rock and Mineral Collection has a new and permanent display! From agates (and the famous Ellensburg Blue Agate) to slices of ginkgo tree, this collection tells the prehistory of Kittitas County. It also reflects the passion three brothers had for rock hounding in Kittitas County. Visitors are encouraged to learn through a hands-on experience with various minerals, petrified wood, fossils, and even a dinosaur bone!
The Ellensburgh Aflame! Who Dun It? exhibit will be on display through July 2012. On July 4, 1889, the City of Ellensburgh suffered a devastating fire that burned down 10 commercial blocks and 200 homes. Even today, no one knows who started the Great Fire, and you are invited to take a look at the suspects and take a guess at "Who Dun It?". The exhibit also takes a look at the history of Ellensburgh Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, and other great fire-related disasters in Kittitas County history.
Also currently on display are two special exhibits. One exhibit is entitled “Local Cowboys: Living a Legend”, which focuses on local cowboys and the rodeo, and also features cowboy memorabilia, such as spurs, ropes, and more. The other exhibit honors the 100th anniversary of the Girl Scouts, with a special focus on local Girl Scout troops.
Othe ongoing exhibits include the Military History exhibit, the Rollinger Rock and Mineral Collection, the Sorensen Antique Automobile Collection, the Cheska Doll and Buggy Collection, early 20th Century medical care, telephones through time, and much more.