Columbia Gorge Museum (formerly the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum) is a regional history museum in Stevenson, Washington, that interprets the natural and cultural heritage of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Operated by the Skamania County Historical Society, the 23,000‑square‑foot (2,100 m²) facility opened on May 17, 1995, replacing a smaller county museum and costing about $10.5 million.
History.
Skamania County's first historical display, opened in 1976, soon proved too small for a region attracting increasing numbers of visitors after Congress created the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in 1986. In 1993 ground was broken on a larger museum designed by Portland architect Jean‑Jacques André to echo basalt cliffs and conifer forests surrounding the Gorge. The Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum formally opened in May 1995 with 11,000 square feet of gallery space.
Building and site.
The museum stands on the north bank of the Columbia River within easy walking distance of Skamania Lodge, downtown Stevenson and the Columbia River waterfront. Its stone‑and‑glass exterior evokes local geology, while large clerestory windows frame views of the river and surrounding Cascade Range peaks. Landscaped grounds include native plantings and Carver's ‘‘Cedar Trees,’’ three 30‑foot (9.1 m) cedar sculptures by Chinookan artist Dudley Carver.
Exhibits and collections.
Rotating art shows are hosted in a dedicated gallery that showcases regional artists.
Programs and events.
The museum offers guided tours, curriculum‑aligned school programs, and lectures on Gorge history. It participates in the annual ‘‘Columbia Gorge Museums Pass’’ program with partner institutions across Oregon and Washington.
Governance and funding.
Columbia Gorge Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit owned and operated by the Skamania County Historical Society. Funding comes from admissions, memberships, county support, and private donations.