Information from SWSHS
Like all museums and cultural organizations, the last few years brought challenges for the Southwest Seattle Historical Society and its landmark Log House Museum. But it has also created opportunities, says its new Programs and Outreach Director, Elizabeth Rudrud
“Visitors are looking for new experiences with their local museums,” says Rudrud, “and the last few years have allowed museums to think differently about their programs and audiences.”
The Southwest Seattle Historical Society is embarking on a strategic planning process to guide its decision making for the next three years and hopes to learn from its community.
A critical component of the process is a community-wide survey. “We hope to learn whether Duwamish Peninsula residents are interested in history, what stories from the past are important to them, what types of programs or services they would like to see us offer, and for those who have not been to visit the Log House Museum - why? Is this something that could change if the museum did things differently or programmed in different neighborhoods?” Rudrud continues.
Respondents who choose to enter their name and contact information will be eligible for a drawing to receive a $100 American Express Gift Card. The winner will be notified in late July or August. (Personal information is not required to participate in the survey.)
SWSHS joins Maritime Washington National Heritage Area
The museum is already thinking in new directions, renovating its interior to accommodate larger programs and offer private rentals to bring in unrestricted income as well as expanding how it talks about the area’s past.
Recently, it joined as an early partner with the newly established Maritime Washington National Heritage Area. “The partnership allows us to collaborate with a regionwide network, rethink how we talk about maritime history, incorporate geological and ecological history, and consider maritime programming.”
The Log House Museum, located one block from Alki Beach, is in a prime location to talk about the history of waterways in Washington State. It was near this location where Chief Sealth, who regularly traveled the region’s waterways, welcomed the arrival of the first permanent settlement at Alki Point, who arrived in 1851 on the Schooner Exact.
Visit: loghousemuseum.org
Questions: Contact Programs and Outreach Director, Elizabeth Rudrud, at elizabeth@loghousemuseum.org.
The Southwest Seattle Historical Society preserves local history through education, preservation, and advocacy. The Log House Museum, located one block from Alki Beach, is a City of Seattle Landmark. The museum is open Fridays and Saturdays from 12-4pm.
