About the McCleary Historical Society & Museum

The McCleary Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the “collective memory” of our city. From our early roots in the 1950s to our current home in a beautifully restored historic church, we serve as a cultural hub where McCleary’s past meets its future.

🏛️ Our Mission & Vision

• Our Mission: The mission of the McCleary Historical Society is to serve as the collective historical memory of the City of McCleary and to serve the community as a cultural center.

• Our Vision: The vision of the McCleary Museum & Event Center is to serve as a local and regional destination that preserves and shares our collective history.

📜 A Legacy of Preservation

The story of the McCleary Historical Society is one of community determination. While early efforts to form a society in 1959 led to the creation of the famous McCleary Bear Festival, the Society was officially incorporated on March 1, 1976, as the Eastern Grays Harbor Historical Society.

For decades, dedicated volunteers—including early leaders like Buena Evans and Bill Willis—worked tirelessly to find a permanent home for our town’s artifacts.

• 1985–2019: The museum was housed in the historic Carnell House, willed to the society by John and Esther Carnell.

• 1992: We officially changed our name to the McCleary Historical Society.

• 2019–Present: In a bold move during the height of a global pandemic, the Society acquired the former Methodist Church. With the help of generous community donations and a $35,000 grant from the Grays Harbor Community Foundation, we transformed this historic building into the museum and event center you see today.

📍 What You’ll Find at the Museum

Today, our “new” historic home is more than just a museum. It is a multi-use facility designed to enlighten and entertain:

• Museum Displays: Immersive snapshots of McCleary’s timber and pioneer history.

• Research Library & Archives: A dedicated space for historians and families tracing their local roots.

• Visitors’ Center: Information for travelers exploring Western Washington.

• Event Center: A unique venue for community gatherings, celebrations, and entertainment.

👥 Leadership & Governance

Our Board of Directors is composed of passionate residents committed to ensuring the Society thrives for generations to come. The McCleary Historical Society is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Because of this, your donation may be tax-deductible. For your records, our EIN is 91-1350099.