East Benton County Historical Museum | Kennewick

The East Benton County Historical Museum, now known as the Museum at Keewaydin, is a vital cultural institution located in Kennewick, Washington, dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history of East Benton County and the greater Tri-Cities region. Situated within the historic Keewaydin Park, the museum functions not only as a repository of local heritage but also as a community center that engages visitors with immersive exhibits, educational programs, and archival resources.

Location and Setting

The museum is housed at 205 West Keewaydin Drive in Kennewick, within one of the city’s oldest public parks-Keewaydin Park. This scenic setting enhances the visitor experience, combining historical exploration with natural surroundings. The park itself offers recreational amenities, making a visit to the museum a part of a broader outdoor outing. The museum’s building features distinctive architectural elements, including a rare petrified wood floor, which itself is a unique artifact attracting interest.

History and Operation

Founded in 1982 and operated by the East Benton County Historical Society, the museum serves as the official historical museum for the region. Its mission is to collect, preserve, and interpret artifacts and stories that document the evolution of the local communities, their indigenous peoples, settlers, and development over time. The museum is staffed by a mix of professional personnel and dedicated volunteers who contribute to daily operations, curatorial work, and public programming.

Collections and Exhibits

The museum’s collection comprises over 10,000 artifacts that span a broad spectrum of local history. These include:

Native American Heritage: One of the museum’s strongest focuses is on the indigenous peoples of the region, including the Wanapum and other tribes. Exhibits display a variety of artifacts such as arrowheads, tools, pottery fragments, and cultural objects gathered primarily from sites along the Columbia River, including Sacajawea State Park. These exhibits provide insight into the lifeways, traditions, and history of Native Americans long before European settlement.

Pioneer and Settler Life: The museum highlights the challenges and triumphs of early settlers who homesteaded the land. Visitors can see household goods, farming implements, clothing, and tools that demonstrate daily life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A standout feature is a replica 19th-century schoolroom, which recreates the educational environment of that era, complete with desks, books, and teaching materials.

Agricultural Development: Given East Benton County’s significant agricultural roots, the museum showcases the evolution from dryland wheat farming to irrigated orchards and vineyards. Exhibits include vintage farming machinery, irrigation equipment, and historical photographs documenting the transformation of the landscape and economy.

Transportation History: The museum traces the development of transportation in the area, from riverboats navigating the Columbia River to the arrival of railroads and the introduction of automobiles. This collection includes model trains, photographs, signage, and artifacts related to the transportation infrastructure that shaped the growth of the Tri-Cities.

Community and Cultural Artifacts: Displays of vinyl records, yearbooks, local business memorabilia, and event posters provide a colorful look at the social history of the region, reflecting the cultural fabric of local life through the decades.

Research Library and Archives

An essential feature of the museum is its extensive research library and archives. This repository contains thousands of photographs, letters, maps, newspapers, and genealogical records relevant to East Benton County. It serves as a critical resource for historians, genealogists, students, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of the region’s past. The archives also support the museum’s own exhibit development and educational efforts.

Educational and Community Programs

The Museum at Keewaydin actively fosters community engagement through a variety of programs:

Rotating Exhibits: Regularly updated exhibits highlight specific themes, anniversaries, or local artists, ensuring that returning visitors always find something new.

Workshops and Lectures: The museum hosts talks on historical topics, preservation techniques, and cultural traditions, often featuring guest speakers and local experts.

Hands-On Activities: Special events for children and families, including craft sessions and history days, create interactive learning experiences.

Special Events: The museum participates in regional celebrations and hosts its own events that draw the community together, reinforcing local identity and pride.

Visitor Experience and Practical Information

Hours: The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Admission: Fees are modest, with general admission set at $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and veterans, and $1 for youth under 18. Members of the East Benton County Historical Society enjoy free entry.

Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available upon request to ensure an inclusive experience.

Visit Duration: Most visitors spend between one and two hours exploring the museum’s exhibits and archives.

Location Benefits: Being situated within Keewaydin Park allows visitors to combine their museum visit with outdoor leisure, including walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Significance and Impact

The Museum at Keewaydin plays a crucial role in safeguarding the identity and heritage of East Benton County. By preserving artifacts and stories from indigenous cultures, pioneer settlers, agricultural pioneers, and evolving communities, the museum connects present-day residents and visitors to the diverse layers of regional history. It also contributes to education, tourism, and cultural enrichment, serving as a hub where history is not only displayed but actively celebrated and interpreted.

This museum stands as a testament to the importance of local history institutions in fostering community cohesion and awareness, offering a rich, detailed perspective on the people and events that shaped southeastern Washington.