The History Museum is featuring several new Exhibits in 2026. Each new project is designed to share the joy of discovery with our visitors by offering first-hand encounters with real objects.
UNA TRADICIÓN BONITA
La Quinceañera
The exhibit explores the vibrant coming-of-age tradition through the personal stories and artifacts of past quinceañeras in the Columbia River Gorge.
The collection features symbolic items and traditional dresses ranging from the styles of the 1990s to the styles of today.
Nuestras Raíces (Our Roots) Latino History Exhibit
The History Museum of Hood River County, in collaboration with consultant Juan Reyes and artist Michelle Yamamoto, is pleased to share the newest addition to the museum’s permanent collection, Nuestras Raíces (Our Roots) Latino history exhibit.
The Nuestras Raíces exhibit shares the history and culture of Mexican immigrants who settled in the Hood River Valley. The exhibit includes the stories of immigrants and their children and grandchildren, sharing the impact and changes they are making in the community and how they were inspired by their roots. The exhibit will be in Spanish, with English translation available.
Embrace The Wind
The new water sports installation is waiting for you to explore. See one of the first prototypes of windsurfing, the “Darby board,” designed by Newman Darby. Not many people have seen this, as only two are known to be fully intact, one at the Smithsonian and one right here at The History Museum of Hood River County. Spread the word and enjoy the history.
From the Vault: Paintings from the Museum Archives
Celebrating local artists, “From the Vault: Paintings from the Museum Archives” features artworks by well known local artists Percy Manser, Lois Talbot, Oscar Hukari, Norman Tucker, and others. This beautiful mountain scene was painted by Alice Malliette Smith.
Several of the artists featured were founding members of the Hood River Art Club in 1949. The group first met on the second floor of Norman Tucker’s father’s feed store, now the location of Discover Bicycles. Tucker was the first president of the club and taught art lessons for many years.
The Nikkei Generations – The Nikkei Legacy
Come see the new interactive installation “The Nikkei Generations” that outlines the migration from Japan to the Hood River Valley. A story that is not very well known but very important to the History of the Hood River Valley.
Meet Sasquatch
Come see our new exhibit “Meet Sasquatch” with information and castings of Bigfoot on loan from the North American Bigfoot Center. Explore the Myth, Legend and the Facts about these animals that walk in the deep forests of the Northwest around us!
