Two Rivers Heritage Museum in Washougal, Washington
When you see this museum from the street, you might assume that it's a little one-room operation, but you couldn't be more wrong! Two Rivers is truly bigger on the inside, in a way that makes everyone remark, "It just keeps going...!" And this museum is jam packed with local history, but it's also brimming with all sorts of oddities. Ever seen a working player piano? How about art made entirely…
The Two Rivers Heritage Museum in Washougal, Washington, defies initial expectations. Upon first glance, it appears to be a small, one-room establishment; however, the reality is quite the opposite. Inside, the museum is vast, filled to the brim with local history, as well as a variety of unique artifacts.
Among the exhibits, visitors can find a functioning player piano, artworks crafted entirely from hair, and a working loom paired with a talking dummy. The museum also houses a water pump and showcases the first 3D image technology. Additional curiosities include the experience of crawling through the entrance of a cedar plank house.
This museum is unique in its focus on local history, specifically that of the towns of Camas and Washougal. The narrative unfolds from Native American history, through the stories of settlers, and the development of three significant industries: prunes, paper, and Pendelton. The history continues up to the present day, providing a comprehensive look at the area's evolution.
For a more immersive experience, the museum recommends taking a guided tour. Each docent brings their own personal stories from living in the Camas-Washougal area, adding a personal touch to the historical exhibits. The museum is open every Saturday from noon to 4 pm, from March through October.
Admission fees are kept affordable: $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for students, and free for children under 5, as well as members of the Camas Washougal Historical Society. Conveniently, the museum is located just across the parking lot from Pendelton Woolen Mills, a working mill that can also be toured. The mill has a large factory outlet store for visitors who wish to continue their historical exploration after leaving the museum.
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