Displays and  Exhibits

Discover the Heart of Grays Harbor: The McCleary Museum

Step back in time and explore the unique history of our community! Located in a stunning 1926 historic building—once a bustling Methodist church —the McCleary Museum & Event Center is our town’s biggest artifact and a must-see destination.

What You’ll Find Inside

Whether you are a history buff or just curious about local life, our exhibits offer something for everyone:

• The Timber Capital: Since our beginning, McCleary has been a timber town. See the massive saws, vintage tools, and heavy equipment that built our local industry.

• Legends and Lore: Meet the famous residents of our past, including Primo and Major Mite (the tallest and shortest men to live here), and learn the wild stories of the McCleary Moonshine era.

• Local Culture: Explore the history of the famous Bear Festival, discover artifacts from the Simpson Door Company, and see how healthcare and businesses have changed in East Grays Harbor County over the decades.

• Life Through the Years: Browse our large collection of vintage photography, fashion, old-school technology, and household items that show how our ancestors lived, worked, and played.

• Wartime & Entertainment: Learn how McCleary supported the country during wartime and what locals did for fun before the digital age.

Plan Your Visit

From the towering trees to the people who made this town home, the McCleary Museum tells the story of East Grays Harbor like nowhere else.

Fun Fact: Our building celebrated its 100th anniversary in March of 2026! Come walk through a century of history and see why McCleary has always been the heart of the region.

We can’t wait to share our history with you!