Welcome to the Olympia Historical Society and Bigelow House Museum

Join us in exploring, preserving and promoting Olympia’s history. We are a non-profit membership-based organization presenting the stories from our past to enrich the present and inform the future of Olympia. The Bigelow House Museum, owned and operated by the Society and Museum, is the oldest residence in Olympia, Washington, and one of the earliest still standing in the Pacific Northwest.

Our Mission:  The Olympia Historical Society and Bigelow House Museum preserves and shares the history and heritage of Olympia and the Bigelow House in a way that recognizes and values the diversity and rich cultures that gave rise to our community, is inclusive of all persons and perspectives, and informs and engages community members and visitors.

The Olympia Historical Society & Bigilow House Museum (OHS & BHM) is partnering with the Downtown Timberland Regional Library to host author Lisa Nickel of the recently published local history book “Tugboat Sand Man.” Lisa will be speaking about the vessel’s history and showing “never before seen photographs” during her talk. Her book event will take place on Tuesday, August 19 at 6:30 to 8:30 PM at the downtown library at 313 8th Avenue SE. Sadly, the National Register and Olympia Heritage Register listed vessel is charting threatening waters unless someone is willing to step forward and purchase the historic tug from the Port of Olympia to restore and continue it’s service as an icon of our local maritime heritage and commerce. Copies of Lisa’s book will be available for purchase and autograph at the event.

Lisa Nickel (1)

Society News

Looking Back

Michael O’Connor – 8/2/25

Looking Back’s theme for 2025 features Thurston County area photographers, artists, and their subjects. Michael O’Connor arrived in Olympia in…

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Historical Research Tools & Information

We have everything from photos and resident data to interactive maps to help you find the information you are looking for. Click on some of the more commonly used historical tools below or use the navigation at the top of the page to see all of categories.

Find out more about the people and places that have shaped our history

Who Are We? Area Residents 1845 – 1930
Where Are We? Historic & Heritage Sites
Many Streams – A Resource Guide

Looking Back feature in the Sunday Olympian

Looking Back

We have created interactive maps that will allow you to find out more information about important historic and heritage locations over time.

Where Are We? Historic & Heritage Sites
Sanborn Overlays
Sylvester’s Window

Resources to help you do your own research

Resources
Queries