Rainier Valley Historical Society

Mission

We collect, preserve, and celebrate the history of Rainier Valley.

Every neighborhood has a history. Rainier Valley's is extraordinary.

For over a century, this corner of Seattle has been where people land, put down roots, and make something lasting. Wave after wave, generation after generation, they arrived, they stayed, and they made this place what it is. Their stories, in photographs, letters, oral histories, and artifacts, live in our archives. And with your help, they'll live on long after us.

History belongs in the hands of people, not only in storage. 

This is the most exciting moment in our 135 year history.

Last year, we purchased the Columbia Motor Co Building at 3806 Ferdinand St., a future permanent home for our archive and a community space where neighbors can experience the valley's story firsthand. But while we roll up our sleeves on the building, the work does not stop. The walking tours still run. The office hours are still open. The archive keeps growing.

Our GiveBIG goal is $2,500. Every gift keeps that core work alive.

Here is what your gift does

$15 - Neighbor: sends a visitor on a free walking tour of Rainier Valley

$50 - Keeper: provides an archival box to safely house a community donation

$100 - Door Opener: funds one full day of Public Office Hours

$250 - Storyteller: funds one oral history recording session, preserved in someone's own words

$500 - Event Founder: sponsors a full community festival or speaker event

Thank you for showing up for Rainier Valley's story.