Our Mission
Our mission at the Harbor History Museum is to inspire curiosity about local history and cultural traditions as they connect to the world around us.
Our vision is to be a premier South Sound resource and destination that is recognized as the community memory bank, preserving and sharing our regional heritage and its connections to the world.
We value Stewardship, Community, Inclusivity, Education, Integrity, and Fiscal Responsibility in our efforts to create a museum that is welcoming for all.
Our Story
Established in 1964, the Gig Harbor Peninsula Historical Society dba the Harbor History Museum was awarded a 501(c)3 status by the IRS, and began operating a Museum in 1976. In the summer of 2007, the Society underwent a re-branding to create the name that communicates the essence of our mission. “Harbor History Museum,” was established at that time.
The Museum fulfills its mission and vision by providing a museum to the community and educational programs serving residents, visitors, researchers, and students. The Museum re-opened to the public on September 18, 2010. The facility includes: an 1893 fully restored one-room school house; a 65 foot fishing vessel currently under restoration; 7,000 square feet of exhibition space; and a 900-square foot library, research and meeting room.
The Museum provides a variety of public education programs. Our core educational program is the Pioneer School Experience (PSE), which serves over 1,500 students every year. Led by a trained “School Marm,” the children experience a pioneer school classroom complete with lessons, recitations, music, recess, and lunch. Children are encouraged to dress in period costume, and are provided with pioneer identities to support their learning experience. For our full-day programs, students also tour the Museum galleries and participate in “history mystery,” exploration stations.
Our permanent exhibit features professionally designed exhibitions, larger than life experiences, and opportunities for hands on exploration of our region’s rich history and unique heritage. Artifacts, video kiosks, hands on exhibits, computer interactives, and a small theatre bring Peninsula history to life in our permanent galleries. In addition, the Museum provides 3-5 special exhibits throughout the year so there is always something new to see and experience for our members and visitors. We also provide lectures, book readings, workshops, and film presentations.
Land Acknowledgement: The Gig Harbor Peninsula Historical Society acknowledges that the Harbor History Museum stands on the ancestral lands of the Coast Salish indigenous peoples, specifically the sxʷ̌əbabš band of the Puyallup Tribe. We are honored to be stewards of this ancient place and to share the stories that have defined the txʷaalqəł site over time.
Check out our Blog
The Harbor History Museum produces a blog thanks to a wonderful volunteer! Learn about Gig Harbor's history and catch a sneak peak from our archives all from your computer or smartphone! To check out our blog please visit http://www.harborhistorymuseum.blogspot.com/
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