The Highline Heritage Museum is embarking on a significant new chapter, announcing plans to expand into an adjacent property to accommodate its rapidly growing collections and community programs. The museum, located at 819 SW 152nd St, has officially had an offer accepted for the purchase of the former rental unit at 15215 9th Avenue SW, situated directly behind its current space.

Since opening its doors in June 2019, the museum has become a cornerstone of local history, successfully navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on a lean budget. However, a surge in community support has led to a significant increase in the acquisition of artifacts, photographs, and local historical items, leaving the current facility at capacity. Museum officials noted that they have reached their limit for hosting events and managing collections, programs, and community gatherings.

The expansion is not just about space; it is about long-term sustainability and historic preservation. The property being acquired carries its own rich history, known as "The Antlers". This site was the original home of Wilson’s Grocery, established in 1915, and later served as the Burien Consumers Co-op. It was also once the location of an antique shop operated by Catherine Troeh, a founding member of the American Indian Women's Service League and a key figure in the Chinook Tribal Council.

To complete this acquisition, the museum has launched a fundraising drive to secure the necessary deposit and down payment. A major highlight of this effort will be a Silent Auction on June 5, featuring unique items such as Alaska Airlines tickets and curated local experiences. The event will also feature guest speaker Lei Wang, a world-renowned explorer who has conquered the highest peak on every continent.

Director Nancy Salguero McKay and the museum board are currently seeking partners for contributions, short-term loans, or mission-aligned investments to finalize the purchase. Once complete, the new multi-use space will significantly expand programming capacity for field trips, education, and community events.

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Calendar of Upcoming Events & Exhibits

The museum remains open to the public Thursday through Sunday, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Below is a schedule of upcoming activities:

Special Events

• April 25: Math in the Ocean – Free hands-on activities for families (10:30 AM – 11:30 AM).
• May 1: Artist Reception – Jake Prendez (5:00 PM – 6:30 PM).
• May 9: Let’s Explore Washington! – Map skills and activities for kids (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM).
• May 9: Rooted in White Center – Documentary Film Screening (5:00 PM).
• May 23: Let the City Speak – Free Documentary Film Screening (5:00 PM).
• June 5: Expansion Fundraiser Silent Auction – Live music, refreshments, and guest speaker Lei Wang (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM).
• Monthly (Last Fridays): 7 Stories – A night of community storytelling (7:00 PM). Dates include April 24, May 22, and June 26.

Current & Upcoming Exhibits

• Main Gallery: Mapping Twin Peaks: Bruce Bickford’s Clay Vision Exhibit.
• March – June: Artists United Art Gallery – Featuring works by Caitlin Riley, Debra Valpey, John Morrell, Ron Hammond, and Rachael Baker.
• April – July: Nepantla: Painting the Space In-Between – Works by Jake Prendez.
• At SeaTac City Hall: The Finer Details – From the Nancy Lindquist Collection.

Community Media

• Mondays at 6:00 PM: Artifacts from Highline – Radio show on 106.5 KQWZ LP-FM hosted by Daniel Roberts and Roger Price.

For more information, to volunteer, or to donate to the expansion project, visit https://highlinemuseum.org/