Culture & Heritage Series: Summer Solstice Celebration
2025-06-20 17:30 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Join us as we welcome the longest day of the year with connection and celebration! Enjoy solstice-themed poetry and spoken word, gentle yoga, sound meditation and a fun craft activity, as we usher in the summer season. FREE event. Open to all. Bring along a mat if you plan on joining yoga.
Rain or shine, the celebration goes on! If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll move the festivities indoors—same great energy, just under a roof.
Celebration Schedule:
5:30 pm – informal gathering together; work on craft activity
6:00 pm 6:45 pm – poetry reading
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm- yoga on the lawn closing with a sound meditation
8:00 pm – 8:30 pm – craft activity
Poetry presented by:
Christopher Luna

Featured Poets:
Eric Fair-Layman
Brittany Mishra
Jennifer Pratt-Walter
Yoga with:

Thank you to our sponsors!
Quantum Fiber
Waste Connections
Port of Vancouver
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
City of Vancouver

Culture & Heritage Series: Craft Day
2025-06-21 10:00 - 13:00 | Artillery Barracks, 600 E Hatheway, Vancouver, Washington, 98661
Bring the whole family for a fun-filled day of creativity!
Join us for a FREE INDOOR community craft day designed for kids, parents, and caregivers of all ages. No experience necessary—just bring your imagination! Take home something you’ve created.
Try your hand at a variety of craft activities including:

origami (well-suited for children 8+) with Holly Williams
puppet making with Dragon Theater

Drop in and get creative with us!
Thank you to our sponsors
Quantum Fiber
Waste Connections
Port of Vancouver
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
City of Vancouver

SOLD OUT! Officers Row Trees Walking Tour
2025-06-25 12:00 - 13:00 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Start at: Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, 98661
Join City of Vancouver Urban Forestry staff for a walking tour to learn more about the many species of trees along Officers Row. Historic Trust Director of Historic Preservation Holly Chamberlain will share information about the history and architecture of the late 19th century Army residences at the former Vancouver Barracks and stories about the people who lived in them. You will learn about the role trees play in the environment and meet a Vancouver Heritage Tree in person!
The 20 tourgoers will meet at the Howard House at 750 Anderson St. and walk east down Evergreen. Dress for the weather, and don’t forget those comfortable shoes. Register for this free program HERE.

See the Historic Vancouver Barracks in 3D!
2025-06-26 18:30 - 20:00 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Major Jeff Davis (US Army, retired) will be discussing and sharing stereoscopic images taken at Vancouver Barracks in the 1870s and 1880s by visiting photographers documenting the people and places where they lived. The technique of combining photographs to create a 3-dimensional effect, or stereoscopy, dates to 1838. In the decades before moving pictures and television, people spent many evenings looking at large collections of stereoscopic images in their own homes. These collections frequently focused on architecture and events in faraway lands.
Major Davis grew up around the Vancouver Barracks, where both he and his father served. He also served in Italy, Japan, Korea, and at Ft. Lewis, Washington. He deployed to Bosnia and twice to southwest Asia for Operation Enduring Freedom. A credentialed military historian, he has written several books and papers on World War II, the Global War on Terrorism, and life at the Vancouver Barracks.
The program is free, but seating is limited. Please register at jddavis@rocketmail.com.
Photo: Grant House, courtesy of Major Davis

Summer Concert Series: The Big Bossa Quartet
2025-06-27 17:30 - 20:30 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Free music concert! Enjoy an evening of great music with Big Bossa Quartet! Big Bossa brings cool jazz with a flavor of Latin and blues thrown in creating an amazing musical experience. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind after a long week under the shady trees of the O.O. Howard House lawn located on Officers Row.
Grab a bite to eat from one of our vendors, including local favorites Razo’s Tacos, Kali Kantina and Smashed Cheese. Cool off with treats from Kona Ice and A Cherry on Top. Be sure and visit our 21 and over beer garden and enjoy an ice-cold hard citrus from Ruzzo!
What to Bring:
Picnic blanket or low-backed chair
Valid ID for 21+ beverage purchases
Friends and family for a fun evening
Visit www.thehistorictrust.org/calendar for information on all our summer events!

Thank you to our sponsors!
Quantum Fiber
Waste Connections
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
Ruzzo
City of Vancouver

Summer Concert Series: Huckle Buck Highway
2025-07-11 17:30 - 20:30 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
A perfect blend of country vibes, classic rock energy, and everything in between, Huckle Buck Highway brings their high-energy stage show to the O.O. Howard House on Officers Row!
Drawing inspiration from legends like Merle Haggard, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Black Crowes, and ZZ Top, they bring a setlist that truly has something for everyone. The band’s impressive pedigree includes members who have shared stages with iconic acts such as LeAnn Rimes, Brooks & Dunn, Joe Walsh, Hal Ketchum, and Pat Benatar, to name a few.
FREE concert! Food and beverages are available for purchase.
Grab a bite to eat from food truck favorite Smashed Cheese. Cool off with treats from Kona Ice and A Cherry on Top. Be sure and visit our 21 and over beer garden and enjoy an ice-cold hard citrus from Ruzzo!
What to Bring

Picnic blanket or low-backed chair for relaxing on the shady lawn
Valid ID for 21+ beverage purchases
Friends and family for a fun evening

Visit www.thehistorictrust.org/summer-2025 for information on all of our summer events!
Thank you to our sponsors!
Quantum Fiber
Waste Connections
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
Ruzzo
City of Vancouver

Ne Plus Ultra Jass at Providence Academy
2025-07-11 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-09-05 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-11-14 19:00 - 21:00 | WA
Come to dance or just to listen at the historic Academy Ballroom!
Since 2016, The Ne Plus Ultra Jass Orchestra has been delighting audiences with the music of the roaring 20s and Depression era 30s.
Under the leadership of master showman Sammuel Murry-Hawkins, the ensemble transports audiences to the golden age of Hot Jazz and Sweet Dance Music, specializing in the tunes of Cab Calloway, Irving Berlin, Duke Ellington, and George Gershwin.
Guaranteed to delight and put a pep in your step!
To make the event accessible to all, ticket prices are set at $16. Tickets are available at the door or on line at The Historic Music Preservation Project.

Culture & Heritage Series: Day of Dance
2025-07-12 11:00 - 15:00 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Join a vibrant celebration of tradition, artistic expression, and community while enjoying a day of dance! Celebrate the variety of cultural traditions present in our community as these groups share their talent, heritage and joy with us. There is even opportunities for a little audience participation!
FREE event! Sweet treats available for purchase from Kona Ice and A Cherry on Top.
Performance Schedule:
11:10 am – 11:45 am Southwest Washington Scottish Country Dancers
12 pm – 12:40 pm Sarada Kala Nilayam
12:55 pm – 1:25 pm Anavai O Te Ora, an ‘Ori Tahiti dance group with a special performance from a Junior Fireknife performer
1:40 pm – 2:10 pm Vancouver Ballet Folklorico
2:25 pm – 3:00 pm Bridgetown Morris
What to Bring

Picnic blanket or low-backed chair for relaxing on the shady lawn
Water and thermos/bottle
Friends and family for a day of dance fun!

Visit www.thehistorictrust.org/summer-2025 for information on all of our summer events!
Thank you to our sponsors!
Quantum Fiber
Waste Connections
Port of Vancouver
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
City of Vancouver

Family Series: Family Fun Day
2025-07-26 11:00 - 15:00 | Grant House, 1101 Officers Row, Vancouver, 98661, United States
Join us for a day of excitement, laugher and family fun! It’s a fantastic way to spend time together making unforgettable memories while enjoying the shady Grant House lawn. Parents can relax with great food and community vibes while kids explore a world of fun. Bring along a picnic blanket for ultimate relaxing. FREE event! Open to all.
Highlights Include:

Kids stage entertainment (schedule below)
Yard games
Face painting
Food trucks, including Razo’s Tacos and Kona Ice

Performance Schedule:
11 am – Angel Ocasio
12 pm – Red Yarn
1 pm – Mo Phillips
2 pm – Lucky Luke, Magician
The historic Marshall House will be open 11am-3pm for Saturday tours as well. Schedule a tour time in advance or drop in to learn more about this incredible Officers Row landmark, and the Nobel Peace Prize-winning man it is named after!
Reserve Tour Here
FREE parking location map here!
Thank you to our sponsors!
Riverview Bank
Elmer’s Restaurants
Quantum Fiber
Port of Vancouver
Waste Connections
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
City of Vancouver

Family Series: Pet Portraits Presented by Quantum Fiber
2025-08-02 09:00 - 13:00 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Critters of all kinds are invited to put their best paws forward for a free photo session at Pet Portraits presented by Quantum Fiber on Saturday, August 2 from 9am to 1pm, part of The Historic Trust’s Summer Family Series presented by Riverview Bank. Skilled pet portrait photographer Robert Holcomb will capture pets’ poses with a professional portrait backdrop and provide free downloads from the Pass Gallery landing page post-event, courtesy of our generous sponsor, Quantum Fiber. Guarantee your spot by registering for a free portrait session time slot. Grab your morning coffee from the fabulous Cafecito Coffee Co.
REGISTER HERE
Reservations are expected to fill quickly! A limited number of walk-up photo opportunities may be available on a standby basis, as time allows.
Didn’t get a reservation? Stop by anyway for fantastic freebies—including take-home treat boxes from Quantum Fiber and pup cups courtesy of Occuscreen—and enjoy fun programming like a K9 meet & greet at 9 AM and a working K9 demonstration at 10 AM! Plus, lots of fun educational sessions led by West Columbia Gorge Humane Society.
Activity Schedule:
9:00am Vancouver Police Department (VPD) K9 Meet & Greet
Sergeant Ryan Starbuck and K9 Tex
Officer Sean Suarez and K9 Midas
Officer Jason Haigwood and K9 Remi
Officer Katherine Grose and K9 Red and
Sergeant Kyle Day of Washougal PD and K9 Cassius
9:30am – Enrichment Ideas for Dogs
10:00am – VPD K9 Demonstration
10:30am – Joey the Pitbull Story Time
11:00am – Adoption: Preparing Your Home for a New Pet
11:30am – Adoption: Decompression and Transition
12:00pm – What To Do When You Find a Stray Animal
12:30pm – The Language of Animals: Learning to Listen Differently Through Animal Communication
Thank you to our sponsors!
Riverview Bank
Quantum Fiber
Elmer’s Restaurants
Occuscreen
Port of Vancouver
Waste Connections
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
City of Vancouver

Summer Concert Series: LaRhonda Steele
2025-08-15 17:30 - 20:30 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Often hailed as “The First Lady of Portland Blues,” LaRhonda Steele is a celebrated gospel, blues, and soul singer whose powerful voice and deep-rooted musical heritage have made her a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest music scene. Born in Spencer, Oklahoma, she began singing in church at age 13 and was directing choirs by 15. Her early exposure to traditional Black gospel music, influenced by her evangelist grandfather and her mother’s gospel quartet, laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to music.
FREE concert! Food and beverages are available for purchase.
Vendors include local favorites Smashed Cheese and Kali Kantina. Cool off with treats from Kona Ice and A Cherry on Top. Be sure and visit our 21 and over beer garden and enjoy an ice-cold hard citrus from Ruzzo!
What to Bring

Picnic blanket or low-backed chair for relaxing on the shady lawn
Valid ID for 21+ beverage purchases
Friends and family for a fun evening

Visit www.thehistorictrust.org/summer-2025 for information on all of our summer events!
Thank you to our sponsors!
Quantum Fiber
Waste Connections
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
Ruzzo
City of Vancouver

Family Series: Puppet Day
2025-08-16 11:00 - 13:30 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Step into a world of imagination and wonder at our Children’s Puppet Show! Families are invited to gather on the O.O. Howard House lawn for a delightful afternoon of storytelling, laughter, and puppet adventure. Our puppeteers will bring characters to life with engaging tales that captivate young audiences and spark creativity. FREE event!
Event Schedule:
11:00 am – Dragon Theater presents Dungeons & Decisions
12:00 pm – Pegasus Theater presents Stellaluna
Delicious tacos available from 4 Caminos. Sweet treats available from Kona Ice, Nachos Dessert & A Cherry on Top
What to bring:

Picnic blanket or low-back chair
Water and thermos/bottle
Entire family for puppet magic!

Thank you to our sponsors!
Riverview Bank
Elmer’s Restaurants
Quantum Fiber
Port of Vancouver
Waste Connections
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
City of Vancouver

Family Series: Play Day with Columbia Play Project
2025-08-23 13:00 - 16:00 | Artillery Barracks, 600 E Hatheway, Vancouver, Washington, 98661
Join the Columbia Play Project and The Historic Trust for a fun-filled day designed to spark imagination, creativity, and joyful learning. Families and children of all ages are invited to explore this amazing mobile pop-up children’s museum featuring hands-on exhibits, interactive activities, and playful learning experiences that celebrate the power of play.
The fun will take place on the front lawn of the historic Artillery Barracks at the Fort Vancouver National Site in Vancouver!

Thank you to our sponsors!
Riverview Bank
Elmer’s Restaurants
Quantum Fiber
Port of Vancouver
Waste Connections
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
City of Vancouver

Summer Concert Series: Exit 52
2025-09-12 17:30 - 20:30 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
End-of-Summer Celebration! Close out the season with the electrifying sounds of Exit 52! This high-energy dance band will keep you moving with a crowd-pleasing mix of rock, funk, pop, blues, and disco—there’s something for everyone.
FREE Outdoor ConcertRelax under the evening sky and enjoy incredible live music in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Delicious Eats & TreatsSavor tasty bites from Razo’s Tacos and Smashed Cheese, plus cool down with sweet treats from Kona Ice and Cafecito Coffee Co.
21+ Beer GardenKick back with an ice-cold Ruzzo Hard Citrus or your favorite brew (valid ID required).
What to Bring
Picnic blanket or low-backed chair for lawn seating
Valid ID for 21+ beverages
Friends and family for an unforgettable night of music and fun
Thank you to our sponsors!
Quantum Fiber
Waste Connections
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
Ruzzo
City of Vancouver

Have You No Sense of Decency? Shame in American Politics
2025-09-18 18:00 - 19:30 | Red Cross Building, 605 Barnes Street, Vancouver, 98661, United States
From the use of pillories and stocks in colonial America to the rise of “cancel culture,” use of shame as a weapon has a long history in the United States. And it has been used to mixed effect in the political arena when used to target politicians and their supporters.
Professor Carolyn Long examines the rise of shamelessness in American politics and the use of shame against those with whom we disagree. When shame is used to demonize others, does it contribute to political polarization? Are shame and shamelessness equally destructive to our politics and society? Can shame be used effectively in politics without demonizing the person being shamed? And if this is the case, how can we fix this and improve our political discourse?
Thursday, September 18, 2025
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Red Cross Building
605 Barnes St., Vancouver
Part of the Humanities WA Speakers Series presented by Hawthorn Senior Living

Speaker Bio
Carolyn Long (she/her) is an associate professor at Washington State University Vancouver’s School of Politics, Philosophy, and Public Affairs. Her research focuses on American politics, policy, and law. She is the author of Mapp v. Ohio: Guarding Against Unreasonable Searches and Seizures, and Religious Freedom and Indian Rights: The Case of Oregon v. Smith, and the recipient of two Fulbright Scholar Awards. She was the Democratic nominee for the Third Congressional District in 2018 and 2020.
Long lives in Vancouver.
This talk is presented in partnership with The Thomas S. Foley Institute for Public Policy and Public Service, which educates citizens across the state about democratic institutions and public affairs, and is based at Washington State University. For more information, visit The Foley Institute’s website.
This program is offered free of charge, but space is limited. Please reserve your spot HERE.
Thank you to Humanities WA for their support in bringing this event to Vancouver. Special thanks to the NAACP Vancouver for joining us as our promotional partner for our 2025 series of speaker events.

Culture and Heritage Series: Drum Day
2025-09-20 11:00 - 15:00 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Drum Day is a vibrant and rhythmic celebration showcasing traditional drumming practices representing various cultural traditions. The air will be filled with the sounds of traditional drums during this lively community event. The event concludes with a community drum circle. Everyone is invited to join. We’ll gather on the front lawn of the O.O. Howard House. Bring along a picnic blanket or low-back chair and your hand drum!
Event Schedule:
11 am – 11:30 am – David Durosier, Haitian Folklore Drumming
Haitian Dance Drumming
11:30 am – 12:00 pm – Hough Foundation
Hough Foundation – Partners In Education
12:00 pm – 12:30 pm – Cowlitz Tribe
Home | The Cowlitz Indian Tribe
12:30 pm – 1:00 pm – Community Drum Circle
Thank you to our sponsors!
Quantum Fiber
Waste Connections
Port of Vancouver
The Columbian
Oregonian Media Group/Here is Oregon
City of Vancouver

The Trickster: How this Ancient Archetype Helps Us to Imagine a Better World
2025-10-09 18:00 - 20:00 | Red Cross Building, 605 Barnes Street, Vancouver, 98661, United States
What do Loki, Banksy, Bugs Bunny, Thelonious Monk, Mae West, Yoko Ono, Raven, Eshù Elégba, and Muhammad Ali all have in common? Whether deity or human, all bring Trickster magic to our world.
The Trickster, a character who animates and enlivens humanity’s oldest stories, is frequently misunderstood. Wander and wonder with author Shepherd Siegel through the paradoxes, art, tricks, backfires, pranks, pratfalls, and messianic acts that together form this indestructible component of our collective psyche. From that common ground, we’ll share our own personal encounters with tricksterism and come to an understanding of how the journey from moral indeterminacy to moral discovery can inspire us to imagine and create a better world.
Thursday, October 9, 2025
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Red Cross Building
605 Barnes St., Vancouver
Part of the Humanities WA Speakers Series presented by Hawthorn Senior Living

Shepherd Siegel (he/him) is an author and activist. He started off as a professional rock and jazz musician before becoming a teacher for incarcerated youth and students with disabilities. He earned his doctorate at University of California, Berkeley, with studies in anthropology and special education. His recent books, Disruptive Play and Tricking Power into Performing Acts of Love (a Bronze Winner for an INDIES Book of the Year Award and Silver winner of a CIPA Evvy), explore the Trickster in politics and culture.
Siegel lives in Seattle.
This program is offered free of charge, but space is limited. Please reserve your spot HERE.
Thank you to Humanities WA for their support in bringing this event to Vancouver. Special thanks to the NAACP Vancouver for joining us as our promotional partner for our 2025 series of speaker events.

SOLD OUT! Officers Row Tree Tour
2025-10-16 12:00 - 13:00 | O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
Join City of Vancouver Urban Forestry staff for a walking tour to learn more about the many species of trees along Officers Row. Historic Trust Director of Historic Preservation Holly Chamberlain will share information about the history and architecture of the late 19th century Army residences at the former Vancouver Barracks and stories about the people who lived in them. You will learn about the role trees play in the environment and meet a Vancouver Heritage Tree in person!
The 20 tourgoers will meet at the O.O. Howard House at 750 Anderson St. and walk east down Evergreen. Dress for the weather, and don’t forget those comfortable shoes.
Please reserve your spot HERE

SOLD OUT! Secret Spaces Post Hospital Tour
2025-10-25 09:30 - 13:00 | WA
Have you seen the large brick building situated right next to the freeway as you were driving through downtown Vancouver on I-5, and wondered what’s inside?
The Historic Trust is pleased to offer you the opportunity to see for yourself!
The Secret Spaces Post Hospital Tour will give participants a chance to step back in time and imagine the rooms of this historic building in action. Built in 1903-1904, the Post Hospital was considered cutting-edge for its time, including being one of the first in the nation to have space purpose-built for taking and developing x-ray images.
Today, many of the building’s original structural features remain:

Tin ceiling tiles
Coved ceilings
Woodwork
Sun porches to support recovery of tuberculosis patients

With access to explore spaces on all four floors, you’ll get an exclusive peek inside this structure that has been off-limits to the public for decades.
Your 1.5-hour experience begins across the street from the Post Hospital at the Red Cross Building with a brief 10 to 15 minute seated educational session. The Historic Trust’s Director of Historic Preservation, Holly Chamberlain, will provide historical and architectural background information about changes the building has seen over time, and about the spaces you’ll get to explore. Your time in the hospital will not be guided. Most spaces will be open for you to walk through or look into, so you can see the building at your own pace within the allotted time frame.
Two tour times will be offered:
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Tickets are $35 per person (price includes any applicable taxes and fees) and are only available for purchase in advance while supplies last.
IMPORTANT – PLEASE NOTE: The Post Hospital is only accessible by stairs, and movement between floors inside the building is via stairs only. Please read the “Building Accessibility” information below to determine if this tour is right for you and your companions, if you are purchasing multiple tickets. All participants must be at least 12 years of age. All participants must wear closed-toe flat shoes.
To purchase tickets, click the BUY TICKETS link below. When on the ticket sales page, select your tour start time (9:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.) by clicking the drop-down menu under “Choose a Date.”
NOTE: Tickets go on sale at 9 am, Friday, October 3, 2025
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
SECRET SPACES TOUR – BUILDING ACCESSIBLITY
This “Secret Spaces” tour includes areas that are generally off-limits to the public and are not fully accessible. Please use the following building description to determine whether this tour is right for you. Please let us know ahead of time if you have specific questions about accessibility: 360.992.1800 or info@thehistorictrust.org.
Post Hospital Tour
The Post Hospital is currently only utilized by The Historic Trust staff and is not open to the public. It is being opened for this special “Secret Spaces” tour only. The building is only accessible by stairs, and movement between floors within the building is via stairs only. There are no accessibility accommodations in place. No ASL provided.
Guests are welcome to purchase tickets to enjoy the brief (10-15 minute) opening presentation about the Post Hospital, which will be held in the Red Cross Building (RCB) and forego exploration of the Post Hospital building requiring mobility. The Red Cross Building is accessible via a ramp on the east side of the building with access from the north. There are accessible restrooms on the main floor.
This event is a fundraiser for The Historic Trust, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Proceeds from ticket sales support its mission to inspire civic pride and economic vitality through education, preservation, and celebration of our community’s history.
Supporting Sponsor:

SOLD OUT! Woody Guthrie: A Musical History Performance by Joel Underwood
2025-10-29 18:00 - 20:00 | Providence Academy Chapel, 400 E. Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
**This event is sold out! No waiting list and no standby ticket sales at door
Musician, historian, and storyteller Joel Underwood returns to Vancouver for a very special two-act performance (with intermission) about the life and music of folksinger and activist Woodie Guthrie.
Guthrie composed 26 songs in 30 days while riding along the Columbia River and touring the Grand Coulee Dam Project in 1941. With his unique, authentic voice, he chronicled both the grandeur and the perils of what he called “The Greatest Thing That Man Has Ever Done” as an employee of the Bonneville Power Administration. His time here in the Pacific Northwest inspired a swell of patriotism that led Guthrie to enlist in the U.S. Merchant Marine in World War II, after which he returned home to fame and notoriety, but also to tragedy and tremendous personal loss.
This interactive musical history performance will have you singing along to “Roll on Columbia,” “Pastures of Plenty,” and of course, “This Land is Your Land,” and learning the—sometimes hilarious, sometimes tragic—stories behind the songs.
Tickets are $18 in advance and include any applicable taxes and fees. Space is limited and tickets may sell out prior to the event. If available, tickets will be sold at the door for $25 each.
General admission seating in Providence Academy Chapel pews will be available on a first-come first-served basis. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. (30 minutes prior to performance start time). Free parking is available in the Providence Academy lot (the Aeon Apartments parking lot is NOT available for event parking).
This event is a fundraiser for The Historic Trust, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Proceeds from ticket sales support its mission to inspire civic pride and economic vitality through education, preservation, and celebration of our community’s history.

Lough Legacy Veterans Day Parade
2025-11-11 11:00 - 13:00 | WA
37th Annual Lough Legacy Veterans Day ParadeTuesday, November 11, 2025 • 11:00 a.m.Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Vancouver, Washington
Join us in honoring our nation’s heroes at the 37th Annual Lough Legacy Veterans Day Parade—a cherished community tradition held rain or shine at the historic Fort Vancouver National Site. This event pays tribute to veterans from all branches of service and celebrates the spirit of community and gratitude that defines the day.
This free public event features more than 75 entries, including veterans’ organizations, military vehicles, marching bands, ROTC units, equestrian groups, and youth organizations.
The parade route begins at Evergreen Blvd. & E. Reserve Street (east end of Officers Row) and winds through the Fort Vancouver National Site, ending near Pearson Air Museum.
While you’re here, be sure to stop by the Community Military Appreciation Committee (CMAC) Veterans Day Open House, happening 11 a.m.– 3 p.m. at Pearson Air Museum.
What to Expect:
Patriotic displays, music, and tributes
A family-friendly atmosphere filled with community pride
Parking:
Free parking, multiple locations – see map below. Accessible parking located on the west side of the O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson Street – see map below.

Flag Sponsor

Salmon Creek Post 176

Supporting Sponsor

With Thanks To

When Your Grandpa Is a Bot: AI, Death, and Digital Doppelgangers
2025-11-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Red Cross Building, 605 Barnes Street, Vancouver, 98661, United States
After his father passed away, Muhammad Aurangzeb Ahmad brought him back—digitally. To give his young children the experience of knowing their grandfather, he created an artificial intelligence (AI) simulation he called “Grandpa Bot” that could act like his father. As his kids grow up interacting with Grandpa Bot, Ahmad has had to confront firsthand the increasingly blurred lines between what is human and what is code.
In this talk, Ahmad uses his experience to explore how artificial intelligence will transform our society, culture, and relationships. How might AI change what it means to be human? What does it mean to remember a loved one? What is personal identity? Join him for a talk about how technology is shaking up the foundational questions of life.
Thursday, November 13, 2025
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Red Cross Building
605 Barnes St., Vancouver
Part of the Humanities WA Speakers Series presented by Hawthorn Senior Living

Muhammad Aurangzeb Ahmad (he/him) is a research scientist at the University of Washington’s Harborview Medical Center and an affiliate assistant professor in the department of Computer Science at the University of Washington, Bothell. He earned his PhD in computer science from the University of Minnesota. His research focuses on artificial intelligence, algorithmic nudging (using algorithms to change human behavior), and personality emulation (software that can act like humans). He thinks extensively about the social, cultural, and ethical impact of AI and machine learning.
Ahmad lives in Bothell.
This program is offered free of charge, but space is limited. Please reserve your spot HERE.
Thank you to Humanities WA for their support in bringing this event to Vancouver. Special thanks to the NAACP Vancouver for joining us as our promotional partner for our 2025 series of speaker events.

Party on the Plaza presented by Columbia Credit Union
2025-12-05 16:00 - 20:00 | Providence Academy, 400 E. Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
The Historic Trust is excited to welcome the entire community to Providence Academy for a party to celebrate the completion of the new Sacred Heart Plaza at Ed Lynch Square! Watch a live ice sculpture carving demonstration and enjoy a free hot cocoa outdoors while exploring elements of the plaza and the historic Sacred Heart path. Step inside to visit the stunning Providence Academy Chapel, and learn more from our volunteer docents about this incredible landmark designed by Mother Joseph of the Sacred Heart in 1873. While on the first floor, stop in for a free visit with Santa Claus, with a fun free craft project for kids and a “Snowman Soup” takeaway, while supplies last. Free reservations for Santa visits are full, but walk-ins to see Santa will be welcomed as space is available.
SANTA RESERVATIONS – FULL
This celebration honors a great community treasure – Providence Academy – as it continues to evolve through adaptive reuse to remain a vibrant hub of downtown activity for generations to come!

SOLD OUT! Holiday Tea at the Marshall House
2025-12-13 14:00 - 15:30 | The Marshall House, 1301 Officers Row, Vancouver, WA, 98661, United States
The Marshall House will be beautifully decked out for the holidays, and we want to share it with you! Join us at the beautiful Marshall House for our Holiday Tea, Saturday, December 13th. With a delicious menu and delightful teas, this is a special holiday event that you do not want to miss!
Choose from one of two seatings, 11 am or 2 pm. Space is limited.
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Thank you to our sponsor, Waste Connections!

Ne Plus Ultra Jass Orchestra at Providence Academy
2026-01-02 19:00 - 21:00 | WA

Vancouver Venues & Vendors Open House
2026-02-01 12:00 - 15:00 | Red Cross Building, 605 Barnes Street, Vancouver, 98661, United States
✨ Planning a wedding or special event? Start here! ✨
Hosted by The Historic Trust, the Vancouver Venues & Vendors Open House takes place on Sunday, February 1st at the historic Red Cross Building. This free, come-and-go event is your chance to tour a stunning downtown venue, virtually preview four additional Historic Trust venues, and connect with trusted local vendors all in one afternoon.
Whether you’re newly engaged, planning a big bash, or still gathering ideas, you’ll leave inspired, informed, and one step closer to your dream event.
Guests who attend, sign in, and book their event by February 28th will receive 10% off the venue rental rate at any Historic Trust venue.
Meet and connect with an incredible group of local event professionals, including:
📸 Missy Fant Photography @missyfantphoto
💐 Floral Sunshine @floralsunshinepdx
🍽️ Say Ciao! @sayciao1
🥂 Tipsy Chicks @tipsychicksbartending
📋 Elle & Co. Events + Bar @ellebeautyandevents
🤵 The WaitStaff Team, Inc. @thewaitstaffteam2014
☕ Bluum Coffee @bluumcoffee
🏨 Homewood Suites by Hilton Vancouver–Portland @hwsvancouver
📍 The Red Cross Building | 605 Barnes St., Vancouver, WA 98661
🕛 12–3 PM
🎟 Free entry
Bonus: The first 15 attendees receive a wedding survival bag!
For more information, please contact Mary McCammon, Event Facilities Manager at The Historic Trust, at mary.mccammon@thehistorictrust.org or 360-992-1839.
Please see map below for parking information.

SOLD OUT! All Over The Map: Stories Behind the Names of Washington Places and Things
2026-02-12 18:00 - 19:30 | Red Cross Building, 605 Barnes Street, Vancouver, 98661, United States
How did your town get its name? What about your neighborhood school? Or that locally made candy bar? In this talk, get the big picture of how names were given to geographic places in Washington, as well as to iconic local brands, and how those names can reflect deeper, and sometimes challenging, meanings. Explore how names often evolve to better connect us to place and to our neighbors.
Speaker Feliks Banel has worked in history and media since the 1990s. He served as deputy director of MOHAI; and has produced Edward R. Murrow Award-winning radio and podcasts and Emmy-winning TV about local history. Feliks lives in Seattle.
This program is offered free of charge, but space is limited. Please reserve your spot HERE.
Thank you to Humanities WA for their support in bringing this event to Vancouver.

Historic Trust Speakers Series presented by University Village

Ne Plus Ultra Jass Orchestra at Providence Academy
2026-03-06 19:00 - 21:00 | WA
Come to dance or just to listen at the historic Academy Ballroom!
Since 2016, The Ne Plus Ultra Jass Orchestra has been delighting audiences with the music of the roaring 20s and Depression era 30s.
Under the leadership of master showman Sammuel Murry-Hawkins, the ensemble transports audiences to the golden age of Hot Jazz and Sweet Dance Music, specializing in the tunes of Cab Calloway, Irving Berlin, Duke Ellington, and George Gershwin.
Guaranteed to delight and put a pep in your step!
To make the event accessible to all, ticket prices are set at $16. Tickets are available at the door or on line at The Historic Music Preservation Project.
Some of the public areas in our buildings may not be fully accessible to visitors with limited mobility. Please call in advance for more specific information: 360-992-1800.
