URGENT UPDATE: The Whitman County Genealogical Society and the Whitman County Historical Society have just announced their new shared location at Pullman’s Community Congregational United Church of Christ. This opening marks a pivotal moment as both organizations invite the public to an open house today from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 525 NE Campus Ave., Room 102.
This relocation comes in the wake of the Gladish Community and Cultural Center’s sudden closure in September 2023, leaving both societies scrambling to preserve the region’s rich history. The two nonprofits have collaborated for years to collect, research, and connect with the community, and their new space is a vital resource for residents eager to learn about their heritage.
During today’s open house, attendees can explore a variety of library and archive resources. According to Monica Peters, correspondence secretary at the genealogical society, the organization provides crucial information that is often unavailable online, helping individuals fill in the gaps of their family histories.
Meanwhile, Alex Otero, archivist at the historical society, emphasizes the importance of their collections in documenting the “where” and “what” of the county’s heritage. He noted, “Organizations like the historical society are essential as they preserve artifacts and mementos of the region’s past.”
The societies will be open to the public every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon or by appointment. The historical society currently offers free research assistance, while the genealogical society charges $20 per hour for more in-depth genealogical queries.
This fall marks a significant new chapter for both organizations, which have deep roots in the community. The historical society was founded in 1972 and moved its archive library into the Gladish in 1987, while the genealogical society was established in 1984 and moved into the Gladish in 1992 as its collection grew.
Peters noted the keen interest among residents in learning about their ancestry, stating, “The work the genealogical society does helps residents feel connected to their ancestry and their community.”
As the community gathers today to celebrate this new beginning, both societies are eager to continue their mission of preserving Whitman County’s history for future generations. Don’t miss the chance to visit the new location and discover the wealth of historical resources available.
For more information, visit the Whitman County Historical Society at whitmancountyhistoricalsociety.org or the Whitman County Genealogical Society at whitmancgs.org.
