HistoryLink

Mission

HistoryLink is Washington state’s independent online encyclopedia established in 1997 to pioneer innovative approaches to historical research, education, and publishing. We believe that history is a powerful tool for good and that history belongs to the entire community.   

Why Give?

Your donation to HistoryLink enables us to inspire curiosity in readers and writers of history across Washington state. 

With an average of 4,500 visitors a day to our online encyclopedia – educators, students, journalists, librarians, tourists, community leaders, artists, and lifelong history lovers – your contribution supports a valuable free resource that fosters a sense of belonging and connection to place. 

Educators and students can learn about people, places, and events that have shaped our state’s communities: 

“Oftentimes, brand new teachers who aren't necessarily from Washington state are thrown into teaching Washington history. HistoryLink gives teachers the chance to think beyond what the textbook says or what they normally teach."   - Callie Birklid, educator, River Ridge High School, Lacey, WA                                                                                      

Newcomers to the state get to know their county, city, or town: 

“HistoryLink is one of the few reliable Washington state resources out there that provides good, solid, media-friendly information that we all need.”   - Jennifer Ligot, educator, North Creek High School, Bothell, WA                                                              

Researchers discover primary source material they didn’t know existed at their local archives and libraries:

“Each time an archival collection is cited in a HistoryLink piece, it's only a matter of time before new researchers contact us to dig further into those materials.”  - Lisa Labovitch, librarian, Everett Public Library Northwest Room, Everett, WA                                      

HistoryLink also publishes books, podcasts, and walking tours, offering a variety of ways to engage with local history.

Our Goal

Help us raise $5,000! 

Your generosity keeps us vital and allows us to share the stories that inspire the learner in each of us.