May's History Talk: Generationally-Linked Archaeology in Our Region

Held On Thursday, May 2nd at Noon

Noted anthropologist and archaeologist Dr. Dale Croes has spent over 40 years studying Northwest Coast basketry and cordage. He and Salishan Master Basketmaker Ed Carriere have co-authored a book on Salish Sea basketry which traces the evolution of traditional Northwest Coast basketmaking from thousands of years ago to contemporary times. Dr. Croes will explain how basketry offers a tangible connection to the past.

History Talks are free to attend, and start at noon. Doors will open at 11:45am.

An American Revolution Exhibit at the Schmidt House

This incredible experience comes to a close soon! April 17th is the last day to visit the exhibit. It is open this week only on the 17th from 10am-4pm.



In April, an exciting new exhibit about the American Revolution came to the Schmidt House. The exhibit was created by the American Battlefield Trust and the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. We are pleased to be one of only three venues in western Washington hosting the exhibit in 2024. The exhibit will be ending on the 17th! Stop by the Schmidt House to see it before it's gone!

It's Scholarship Season!

With June rapidly approaching the OTF scholarship season has arrived! We award around 20 scholarships every year, each ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, to graduating seniors in Thurston County who plan to attend college within Washington state. Last year we gave out $140,000 between all of our awardees! Since our scholarship program began back in 1967 we have given over $2,400,000 away to students in our community.

We received 50 applications this year! Soon our scholarship committee will choose who continues on to personal interviews. After interviews are conducted and each candidate has been reviewed, we will announce our 2024 scholarship winners! Stay tuned for updates...

Something Seems Fishy...

There are fish residents again in the Tumwater Falls Hatchery! These finned friends are just fry for now, but they are learning how to be grown up salmon. In the coming weeks they will be eating lots of fishy food and swimming in the holding pond to acclimate to the Deschutes River. Come say hi to these little guys in their pens behind the hatchery!

Spring Flowers Are Blooming in Tumwater Falls!

Come see a variety of blooming plants on your next visit to Brewery Park! We have many different colors of Rhododendron, native bushes and flowers, as well as blooming trees on display around the park.

The Grounds Are Open To Visitors!

Stop by the Schmidt House for a beautiful walk around the grounds. If you'd like to see the interior of the house, book a private tour with the Schmidt House Curator, Karen Johnson, or attend one of our scheduled house tours!

Host Your Wedding at the Schmidt House

We are offering the Schmidt House as a wedding venue again in 2024! Limited bookings per year are available, so inquire as soon as possible to reserve your booking!