UPDATE: The Whitman County Genealogical Society and the Whitman County Historical Society are officially opening their new shared space today, inviting the public to explore their resources. The open house is scheduled for Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Community Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 525 NE Campus Ave., Room 102.
This significant development comes after both organizations were unexpectedly displaced when the Gladish Community and Cultural Center closed its doors in September. With only two weeks to pack up their archives, this move marks a pivotal moment for these nonprofits dedicated to preserving the region’s history.
During the open house, visitors will have the opportunity to explore a variety of library and archive resources. The organizations aim to connect the community with the rich history of Whitman County. According to Monica Peters, correspondence secretary at the genealogical society, “We fill in the gaps of family history by providing information that can’t be found online.”
The historical society, led by Alex Otero, focuses on preserving artifacts and mementos that encapsulate the area’s heritage. “Organizations like ours are critical because they house the more than century-old publications of the Pullman Herald, along with old photographs and plot records,” Otero stated.
The societies will be open every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon or by appointment. While the historical society provides free research assistance for now, the genealogical society charges $20 per hour for in-depth family history investigations.
This transition reflects a broader commitment to cultural preservation in the community. Otero emphasized the importance of physical locations for archival work, especially as individuals express increasing interest in their ancestry. Peters added, “The work we do helps residents feel a connection to their past and their community.”
Both organizations have rich histories themselves; the historical society was founded in 1972 and moved its archive library to the Gladish in 1987, while the genealogical society was established in 1984 and settled into the Gladish in 1992.
As the community comes together to celebrate this new chapter, residents are encouraged to take part in today’s open house. The opening represents not just a new location, but an ongoing dedication to preserving the stories and heritage of Whitman County.
For those unable to attend, more information about the organizations can be found at their respective websites: whitmancountyhistoricalsociety.org and whitmancgs.org.
Stay tuned for more updates on local events and initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and historical preservation!
