Our MissionWe collect, display, preserve, and safeguard various artifacts, ephemera, photographs and research materials about all aspects of the history of Columbia County. Collections displayed in museums located in St. Helens and Vernonia, Oregon. Our HistoryThe Columbia County Museum Association (CCMA) organized in 2007
to manage the Historic Courthouse Museum in St. Helens, which originally opened
in 1970. The CCMA also partners with the Vernonia Pioneer Museum, which
opened in 1964. The courthouse museum was closed for seven years,
2003-2010, and reopened after an inventory and reorganization were completed.
Both museums are run by volunteers and are registered nonprofits. Board membersJoanne Pellham, President and Chair CCMA Biannual EditorsRecent PublicationsYou can receive your own copy of the Newsletter and the Museum Association Biannual of essays and stories about Columbia County by becoming a member. Biannuals may also be purchased at either of the Museums or at a number of local sites for $5.00 ProjectsPlease check the Projects tab or use the link below to contribute to, or comment on some of our ongoing collection activities which include:
We are preparing a display of local advertising ephemera representing local businesses. Please contact us if you have any items you think might be of interest We are also planning a project to acquire home movies from early eras that capture public events throughout the County. Local backgrounds or activities are especially desirable. If the material is of general interest, we will convert movies to DVD and provide a copy to the donor. A sampling of parade footage in St.Helens is available for viewing Historic Courthouse MuseumThe Historic Courthouse Museum's displays highlight the following: shipping, railroads, farming, schools, the military, natural history, towns, industry, logging, government, business, and general interest. One room is a research library with a wide variety of materials devoted to genealogy and Columbia County. Vernonia Pioneer MuseumThe Vernonia museum is stuffed with logging memorabilia, household artifacts, photos, mounted wildlife, local families and a fascinating assortment of items in every room, with an emphasis on the Vernonia area. vernoniamuseum@gmail.com How You Can Help Support the MuseumsBecome a member. Donate using your credit card, by mail or in person during museum hours. Please contact us if you have any questions or need assistance. |