BIG RIVER THE COLUMBIA'S MANY MEANINGS

Take a journey down the Columbia River at the Washington State History Museum through the new exhibition Big River: The Columbia’s Many Meanings. The exhibition tells the river’s story through the eyes of the many people who have traveled, worked, and lived along its waters. Spanning from the Canadian Rockies through Washington and Oregon to the Pacific Ocean, discover the largest river system in the Pacific Northwest. Big River will be on view from June 2 through October 27, 2024.

Big River offers guests an immersive experience through a showcase of photographs, artwork, artifacts, and interactive elements. Narratives from the perspectives of Native communities, explorers, policymakers, industrialists, and more help illustrate the varying and complex aspects of life and significant events on the Columbia River throughout history. 

“The exhibit illustrates many of the historic relationships that Northwesterners have had with the river, from time immemorial to the recent past,” said curator Katy Barber. “I hope visitors deepen their understanding of the river’s significance to us all and leave with a sense of reverence, hope, and investment in the future of the Big River.”

The exhibition explores the significance of the Columbia River to the people of our region through four major themes: as a transportation route, as a provider of food and resources, as an energy source, and as a home. These themes detail how the Columbia River has been a lifeline for many, connecting communities, providing traditional foods and medicines, and serving as an economic engine. As more people than ever call the Northwest home, how will the river evolve next?