Western Heritage Center, Washington, United States

5Jo Ann D 5:00 PM May 22, 2017

Lucky kids, grandparents, parents, and curious adults will love this place
Subject: Western Heritage Center Location: Monroe, Washington, United States, North America Title: Lucky kids, grandparents, parents, and curious adults will love this place ID#: 486676625 This small museum is a treasure for two reasons--the amazing variety of working equipment it holds and the devoted and knowledgeable people (many of whom are retired farmers and loggers) who run it and know so much about things work. It includes items from logging and mining but farming is the biggest feature. Much of the equipment still works--and visitors are encouraged to try them out. It's a great place to enjoy with grandchildren or for a family visit--as noted above, you really will be encouraged to interact with the displays--start motors, push buttons, pull handles, turn wheels... One thing you will learn is that tractors didn't just plow fields but were an amazingly versatile energy factory for a big variety of planting and harvesting equipment. This museum is indeed open during the Fair, but try to stop by at a quieter time of the year to fully enjoy more time to try out the wonderful old, but working, equipment and talk to the volunteers who love it so much. It's wise to check for open times other than weekends.

5floomper 5:00 PM Oct 2, 2016

Great display of tools, machines and ways of life before technology.
This place is a gem. It's great for kids and adults alike. You can get hands-on with machines, and get a close-up experience with how things worked, "back in the day." From farming to mining and logging, to everyday machines used in households. They are constantly working to acquire pieces from history to add to the already impression collection. We were fortunate enough to meet and talk with the patriarch, if you will, of the center, and he just made everything there come alive with story after story. Jerry Senner, who sadly died nearly a year ago, was one of the kindest, funniest storytellers you'd ever meet. A man who knew more about tractors and farming than most. If you get a chance, read up on the history of his life, and what he gave back not only to his community, but even traveling to another continent to teach farming. And although Jerry is gone, and is sorely missed by so many, this museum still hums long nicely with those folks who are stepping up to share those stories. This place needs visitors to stay open and available to generations to come. This isn't your ordinary museum. It's a special place you have to see in person. Donate generously when you visit, every little bit helps. My husband, kids and I visit regularly, and always look forward to seeing what's new!