Heritage Holders
There are many other historical sites in Grays Harbor that narrate stories of the region’s rich past. The lighthouse, seaport and interpretive center are such places. Established at different points in time, these have added richness to the region’s cultural prominence. Offering an immersive experience, these places need to be visited to be awed.
Westport Maritime museum
Situated in Westport, this historic building was constructed in 1939. However, it opened to the public as a museum in 1985. Home to the tallest lighthouse in all of Washington, this museum also houses the destruction island lens. With objects dating back to a hundred years and more, one can see early sailing vessels, boats, ships and related equipment here.
Grays Harbor lighthouse
Situated on Point Chehalis, this is known to date back to 1898. The tallest lighthouse in the region, this lighthouse is the third tallest in the west coast. Standing at a height of 107 feet, it is situated 400 feet away from the water, and faces the Pacific ocean. Its signature would be a white light of five seconds followed by darkness and red light. It also has a third order Fresnel lens. The lighthouse was automated in the 1960s and by 1977 it had a listing on the National Register of Historic places.
Grays Harbor historical seaport
This historical seaport was constructed in order to preserve the maritime history of Grays harbor region along with Pacific northwest region. Housing the Lady Washington, a ship launched in March 1989, as a replica of the original, the historical seaport is home to many fascinating stories. The Hawaiian Chieftain is another replica of the original tall ships that travelled along the west coast. Taking viewers through the history and voyages of these ships, the team and historical seaport also takes the visitors sailing on the replicas, as it tells about the voyages and maritime history of the times.
Coastal interpretive center
A speciality museum located at Ocean shores is the Coastal Interpretive center. Offering a hands on experience of the history and culture of the region, this center also has exhibits about the nature, flora and fauna of the region. A mini natural history museum, it has knowledgeable staff that can enlighten and help visitors with plenty of information. With specimens of local wildlife, rock formations, shells and geological exhibits, there’s plenty to see and experience here. A visit here can be enjoyed by people across age groups, and the learning experience can really be wonderful for children.