Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center — Attraction in Shelton

This is a gem of a museum! There is a lot to see and learn about. The exhibits were detailed and well done. There is also a wonderful gift shop there, where we bought quite a few things. The area outside of the museum is beautiful, as well, as it has a large pond with a small waterfall, benches to sit on and a trail that one can walk in the woods. The only one negative is that they do not have wheelchairs available and I was with my 96 year old stroke survivor father. He couldn’t walk or stand for very long, but the museum staff person, who was wonderful, suggested that we push him around in an office-type chair on wheels. It was a good idea, but in actuality was difficult. Still, I highly recommend this museum and hope to go back next time I am...

Took a detour on my way to Tacoma and really enjoyed this tribal museum which had well done wall sized display boards about the 7 villages and inlets that make up the Squaxin. Each board started with a legend, continued through pre-contact and early contact period and onto recent times. There are lot of wonderful artifacts too. The building is pleasant and next to it is a nice Veteran’s Memorial Garden with water brooks flowing through it. Across the pond are some traditional canoes, one of which is wood. Finally the staff at the museum were welcoming and...

Wonderful educational experience. Went with the kids, and it was closed. Called them to find out when they expect to open again, and a person came to open it just for us and show us around (I recommend calling if closed again). Very welcoming and knowledgeable, loved learning about the dug-out canoe. My family has a generations long history in the area, and I could feel the deeper connection these people have to a place I love. May their nation persevere and thrive for...