BREAKING: The Whitman County Genealogical Society and the Whitman County Historical Society have just announced their new shared location in Pullman, WA. Residents are invited to explore the new space at the Community Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 525 NE Campus Ave., during an open house from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Sunday.
This development comes after both organizations faced unexpected displacement when the Gladish Community and Cultural Center closed its doors in September. The societies had just two weeks to pack their archives and find a new home, marking a significant transition after over three decades at Gladish.
Monica Peters, correspondence secretary of the genealogical society, emphasized the importance of their work, stating, “We fill in the gaps of people’s family history with written records and accounts that can’t be found online.” Meanwhile, Alex Otero, archivist at the historical society, highlighted their broader mission to preserve the tangible heritage of Whitman County. This includes crucial local documents, photographs, and publications, such as the century-old issues of the Pullman Herald.
The societies aim to keep the region’s rich history alive through research and community engagement. They are currently open every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon or by appointment. While the historical society offers free research assistance, the genealogical society charges $20 per hour for more in-depth genealogical support.
Residents have shown a keen interest in reconnecting with their ancestry, and the new space will allow both organizations to better serve this community need. Peters added, “The work we do helps residents feel a connection to their ancestry and their community.”
As the Whitman County Historical Society was founded in 1972 and the genealogical society in 1984, the new location symbolizes a fresh chapter for both groups. The closure of Gladish was a surprise for many, but now there is renewed hope and excitement for what lies ahead.
This weekend’s open house is a prime opportunity for community members to visit, learn, and engage with their local history. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of Whitman County’s ongoing story!
For more information, visit the Whitman County Historical Society at whitmancountyhistoricalsociety.org or the Whitman County Genealogical Society at whitmancgs.org.
