UPDATE: The Whitman County Genealogical Society and Whitman County Historical Society have officially opened their new shared space in Pullman after being displaced by the closure of the Gladish Community and Cultural Center. Residents are invited for an open house on Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Community Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 525 NE Campus Ave., Room 102.
This transition marks a significant moment for both organizations, which have dedicated decades to preserving the rich history of Whitman County. Following the unexpected closure of the Gladish in September, the societies quickly mobilized to find a new home for their extensive archives and library.
“Having a dedicated space is vital for our mission to connect the community with its heritage,” said Monica Peters, correspondence secretary at the genealogical society. The new location will allow the public to explore valuable resources, from written records to historical artifacts.
The societies will be open every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon and by appointment. The historical society currently offers free research assistance, while the genealogical society charges $20 per hour for in-depth family history inquiries.
Both organizations have a long-standing history in Pullman; the historical society was founded in 1972 and established its archive in the Gladish in 1987. The genealogical society, formed in 1984, also moved to the Gladish in 1992 as it expanded its collection.
“This new chapter is about reconnecting with our community and ensuring that the past remains accessible,” stated Alex Otero, archivist at the historical society. The collections include over a century of publications, maps, and photographs that would be hard to find elsewhere in the area.
Residents are increasingly interested in their ancestry and local history, with many seeking connections to their past through family records. “Understanding our roots helps us feel more connected to our community,” Peters emphasized.
As these organizations embark on this new journey, they continue to remind the public of the importance of preserving local history and heritage. The emotional and social significance of their work resonates deeply within the community, and their new location promises to invigorate public interest in Whitman County’s past.
For more information, visit the Whitman County Historical Society at whitmancountyhistoricalsociety.org and the Whitman County Genealogical Society at whitmancgs.org. Share this news and help spread the word about this vital resource for preserving our history.
