Building Fund

$25.00 Minimum

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Description

Preserving Legacy: The Stevens County Historical Society Building Fund

The Stevens County Historical Society (SCHS) stands as a steadfast guardian of the region’s rich history. Established in 1903 as the Stevens County Pioneer Association, this private non-profit organization has evolved into a vital cultural institution dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the stories of Stevens County and its former territories in Eastern Washington. From the indigenous narratives spanning over 9,000 years to the intrepid settlers of the 19th century, SCHS ensures that the voices of the past resonate in the present, fostering a deeper sense of community identity and belonging.

The Society’s efforts encompass not just artifacts but also educational programs, research, and public access to archives that illuminate civic, literary, religious, and natural histories. The Keller House Museum at 700 North Wynne Street in Colville, SCHS welcomes visitors seasonally, offering informational exhibits in a historic home.

Central to the Society’s ambitious vision is the Building Fund, a dedicated campaign fueling expansion and restoration projects essential for safeguarding irreplaceable collections. Initiated to address the limitations of aging facilities, the fund supports critical upgrades, including climate-controlled storage for delicate artifacts, enhanced exhibit spaces, and accessibility improvements. 

The Building Fund’s success hinges on community philanthropy. As a 501(c)(3) entity, SCHS relies on memberships, grants, and donations to bridge funding gaps. Generous bequests, like the 1990s gift that enabled the museum’s addition, have paved the way, but rising costs demand renewed support. Volunteers—historians, tour guides, and groundskeepers—complement these efforts, embodying the pioneer spirit of sacrifice and innovation. By investing in durable infrastructure, SCHS ensures future generations can explore the grit of gold rush miners, the resilience of homesteaders, and the cultural depth of indigenous traditions. In an era of rapid change, this fund isn’t just about buildings; it’s about building bridges to our shared past, inviting all to root themselves in Stevens County’s enduring story. As the society looks ahead, contributions to the Building Fund promise to illuminate history’s lessons, one restored beam at a time.