Why Our History Matters
History is the wonderful and EXCITING TALE of the people, things, and ideas that came before us. Our purpose at the Clatsop County Historical Society is to collect and preserve the STORIES OF OUR PAST to share with present and future generations. These stories are what distinguish our communities as the special places they are, and fuel the tremendous SENSE OF PRIDE we share for the place we call home.
The Clatsop County Historical Society traces its roots to 1871, but formally incorporated in 1951 as efforts were underway to SAVE THE FLAVEL HOUSE from demolition. It played an integral role in the restoration of FORT CLATSOP; established FORT ASTORIA PARK at the site of the original Astoria settlement; produced award-winning documentary films; compiled a collection of 35,000 photographs and more than 20,000 artifacts and documents; opened a fourth museum – the OREGON FILM MUSEUM – in 2010; and served as the lead organization in planning the ASTORIA BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION in 2011.
Member Benefits
Preserve Yesterday
Clatsop County has a RICH HISTORY and a storied past. The Clatsop County Historical Society, in addition to maintaining its own four MUSEUM SITES, is the chief curator of the artifacts, photos, and papers that document the history of Clatsop County. For more than a century CCHS has played a vital role in the growth of heritage tourism and preservation in Clatsop County.
Inform Today
Beyond presenting four museum properties and their EXHIBITS, the Clatsop County Historical Society actively ENGAGES with the community and its visitors for educational purposes. Special events are scheduled throughout the year to satisfy all ages and interests — from home tours and holiday celebrations to “Old Fashioned Fun and Games” and “Talking Tombstones.”
Inspire Tomorrow
The Clatsop County Historical Society is getting a jump on the HISTORY OF TOMORROW by embracing the technology of today. Its newest property, the Oregon Film Museum, showcases innovative and interactive technology that makes learning fun.
