Tacoma, Washington: Washington State History Museum

Although I had been wanting to visit the Washington State History Museum for some time, what really got us there was Skate: Rinks, Derbies & Discos in Washington Skate History:

https://www.washingtonhistory.org/exhibit/skate/ 

Okay, the skating of my youth happened in Oregon, and yet there was so much that was familiar and delightful to remember.

We entered to the sounds of disco (starting with "I Feel Love" and "Xanadu"), and also to some familiar sights.

But hey, those lockers aren't just there for show; the doors without locks open up to reveal pictures and information.

There was fashion and engineering, but also there was a lot of local history, including how different time periods and movements affected skating, and even the role of one rink in keeping peace between towns.

The exhibit is fun, but it does not shy away from serious issues.

I thought it was really well-curated. One of the touches I appreciated was having a cast and an X-ray (though not from the same injury) in the roller derby section. 

Skate is at the museum through August 20th, and well worth the visit.

Ending much sooner (July 7th) is Resilience - A Sansei Sense of Legacy:

https://www.washingtonhistory.org/exhibit/resilience/

I found it powerful.

We are used to a focus on the Issei and Nikkei, so much so that I did not even know Sansei, the word for the third generation.

We are also used to informational exhibits, explaining the history. 

The museum has that covered as well: Remembrance: The Legacy of Executive Order 9066 in Washington State is a permanent exhibit and can be toured virtually:

https://www.washingtonhistory.org/exhibit/the-legacy-of-executive-order-9066-in-washington/ 

That information is available, but it is not presented with the art, keeping the focus on the emotional impact. Some of the pieces are deconstructions of familiar objects, and that fits perfectly.

I thought it was an excellent museum overall.

There is lots of information on Washington history, with creative ways of adding context.

This includes a friendly gopher mascot encouraging kids to dig deeper.

There is also a fantastic model train set, though it did not seem to be fully operational.

 I recommend.

COVID: I think there were actually a few masks other than mine. Also, while there were other visitors, the museum is spacious enough that social distancing was easy.

Accessibility: Good but not obvious. There were the best automated doors and restrooms, but to enter from car, you need to go down to the lower parking lot and take the elevator from there. There is elevator access to everywhere, but there are a lot of stairs, and they are more noticeable. Don't be discouraged!

There is also easy access from public transportation.

https://www.washingtonhistory.org/