UPDATE: The Whitman County Genealogical Society and the Whitman County Historical Society have just announced their new shared location in Pullman, marking a significant moment for local history enthusiasts. The public is invited to explore their new space at the Community Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 525 NE Campus Ave., Room 102, during an open house this Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This development comes after the organizations were displaced when the Gladish Community and Cultural Center closed its doors in September 2023. Both nonprofits, dedicated to preserving the region’s history, are eager to reconnect with the community in their new home. “This is a new chapter for us,” said Monica Peters, correspondence secretary at the genealogical society. “We are excited to welcome everyone to see our resources and learn about their family histories.”
The Whitman County Genealogical Society provides crucial resources to help individuals uncover their family histories, offering information often unavailable online. Meanwhile, the Whitman County Historical Society focuses on the county’s broader heritage, showcasing collections of artifacts, old photographs, and historical publications, including the century-old Pullman Herald.
Both organizations will be open for visitors every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon and by appointment. The historical society currently offers research assistance free of charge, while the genealogical society charges $20 per hour for in-depth family history research.
This transition is particularly poignant as both societies had spent over three decades at the Gladish. “We had only two weeks to pack up our archives and find a new location,” Peters explained. The urgency of their relocation only highlights the dedication both societies have to maintaining a connection to the past for the Pullman community.
Alex Otero, archivist at the historical society, emphasized the importance of their work, stating, “Organizations like ours are vital for keeping the artifacts and mementos of the region’s past accessible to everyone.” He noted that outside of their organization, few places exist where residents can view historical documents and maps.
The open house on Sunday represents not just a new beginning for the societies but also an opportunity for community members to engage with their local history. Peters added, “People are eager to learn more about their ancestry and feel a connection to their community. We’re here to help them on that journey.”
For more information, residents can visit the respective websites of the organizations: the Whitman County Historical Society at whitmancountyhistoricalsociety.org and the Whitman County Genealogical Society at whitmancgs.org.
Don’t miss this chance to dive into your roots and explore the rich history of Whitman County!
