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Issaquah History and America250
Joyful parades, tough truths, and a new lens on Issaquah’s story—how America250 invites celebration and honest reflection alike.
Paul Winterstein
Jul 143 min read
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Community Awards
Hosted annually by the Greater Issaquah Chamber of Commerce, the Community Awards banquet honors individuals and organizations whose service, dedication, and spirit strengthen the fabric of Issaquah. Now in its 45th year, the event serves as a celebration of our shared values—and a snapshot of the living history unfolding all around us.
Paul Winterstein
Jul 142 min read
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Family-Friendly Programming at the Heart of Issaquah's Historic Core
Discover how Issaquah History Museums is creating engaging, inclusive experiences for families—through school nights, scavenger hunts, Junior Rangers, and more.
Heidi Kayler
Jul 142 min read
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From Many, One: The Immigrant Threads of Issaquah’s History
Shaped by waves of immigration and settlement, Issaquah’s immigration story is one of resilience, industry, and cultural blending. Immigrants and settlers began settlers amongst our valley's Native American communities as early as the 1860s, but the arrival of the railroad brought new influx residents and a transition to mining, boarding houses, saloons, and new merchants—attracting workers from various backgrounds.
Page Saurs
Jul 210 min read
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Collections Spotlight: The Country Mouse
A beloved Issaquah shop, The Country Mouse began as a holiday pop-up and became a key player in Gilman Village’s early success. Discover its rich story—and the stained glass mouse that still charms today.
Katarina Volchek
Jun 253 min read
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Our Commitment to Diverse and Inclusive Histories
Issaquah History Museums affirms our stance for inclusive histories.
Paul Winterstein
Mar 203 min read
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RAZING THE BAR: SALOONS & PROHIBITION IN ISSAQUAH
In Issaquah’s rough-cut early years, workers’ hard-earned wages went to whiskey, but they didn't give the "drink" when Prohibition arrived.
Page Saurs
Mar 2013 min read
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Museum Director's End of Year Letter: Celebrating Our Accomplishments and Looking Ahead
Dear Friends of Issaquah History Museums, As we anticipate the swing from shorter to longer days, we have been reflecting on a truly...
Paul Winterstein
Dec 19, 20242 min read
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Squak Valley's Journey: From Wilderness to Homestead
Through determination, the pioneers who ventured to Squak Valley in the 1860s, transformed the land from wilderness to homestead.
Page Saurs
Dec 16, 20246 min read
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Pharmacist, Physician, Postmaster, Mayor – The Influential Gibson Brothers
From 1889 until their death, the contributions of these two brothers to their community boiled down to life, death, and connection!
Page Saurs
Sep 30, 20246 min read
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Uncovering their Legacy: Remarkable Women of Issaquah in the 1800s into the 1900s
Throughout Issaquah's history, there's never been a shortage of strong, notable women. Uncover a healer, bold leader, and two entrepreneurs.
Page Saurs
Mar 28, 20246 min read
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The Depot, the Station Agent, and Lanterns
Long before the street stop lights we know today, the movement of trains was partially governed by colorful lanterns.
Paul Winterstein
Jan 25, 20244 min read
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From the Director: A Year in Review and Anticipating the Future
Ok, not quite a full year, but the past 9 months at Issaquah History Museums have been fun and engaging
Paul Winterstein
Dec 30, 20236 min read
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The Original IHM History Hero: Greg Spranger
Neither the train Depot nor IHM itself may exist as we know them today if not for Greg's passion for preservation and gift of persuasion.
Paul Winterstein
Dec 28, 20232 min read
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Ruth Kees - A Treasured Natural Resource
The woman whose namesake tree and civic award embody Issaquah’s community spirit of environmental activism.
Page Saurs
Dec 28, 20233 min read
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Open House Re-Cap
Planned as an opportunity for the public to meet IHM staff and Board and learn about what is happening and how to get involved, it turned...
Paul Winterstein
Dec 27, 20235 min read
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Celebrating Your Voice: Membership Vote Results are In!
Dear IHM Members, The thrill of democracy is in the air, and we're excited to share the results of our recent membership vote with you!...
Emily Lee
Dec 20, 20232 min read
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Your Voice Matters: Voting Rights for IHM Members
Beyond the perks of price discounts and member-only events, IHM members also have the right to vote on certain important matters.
Emily Lee
Sep 28, 20233 min read
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Trolley Report
COVID and costs shut the trolley down. Can it roll again?
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Sep 20, 20231 min read
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Hello from our new Executive Director
To all of our members, dedicated volunteers, and supporters: Hello! My name is Paul Winterstein, and it’s a pleasure to greet you from...
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May 1, 20234 min read
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