The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

The Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum will host the special traveling exhibition We’re Still Here: The survival of Washington Indians, from August 1 through September 28. The exhibit was organized in 2012 by the Washington State Heritage Center. Former Secretary of State Sam Reed, who was instrumental in creating the exhibit, stated "Washington's history begins thousands of years ago. Long before we became a territory, this land was home to Indian tribes – and their stories are fascinating. Native voices reveal a challenging and inspiring history long overdue.”

The exhibit is described as acknowledging "the early and continuing story of Native Americans in four major themes: the relationship with earth and the struggle over land; assimilation practices and the conflict over Native identity; the century-long battle for treaty fishing rights; and the cultural revival of Indian customs and language in our world today." The exhibit includes displays of rare images and colorful artifacts that tell compelling and personal stories.

In addition to the exhibition We’re Still Here, the museum will present an installation of paintings, drawings and carvings by Charles Funk, whose work draws upon the long history of the Chinook Tribe and their important and continued presence in our community.

There will be an opening reception with the artist Friday, August 1 from 5-7 p.m. The exhibition will be on view through September 28.

Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum is located at 115 SE Lake Street in Ilwaco. Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 – 4 and Sunday noon to 4. Admission is free on Thursdays thanks to the Port of Ilwaco.

For more information call 360-642-3446 or visit columbiapacificheriatgemuseum.org.