The Cowlitz County Historical Museum maintains a collection of over 35,000 objects and nearly a million photographs relating to Cowlitz County and the lower Columbia region. In addition to their use in exhibits, our collections are available to researchers of local history, genealogy, or the timber industry, among other subjects. Our large number of photographs include collections from local photographers and newspapers, such as Hugh Ingram (1920s-1930s), Jan Fardell (1950s-early 2000s), The Daily News (Longview, late 1970s-2002), and the Cowlitz County Advocate (1950s-1990s). Research assistance is available. Copies of photographs may be purchased.
Research questions should be directed to:
Bill Watson, Collections Curator
watsonb@cowlitzwa.gov
Cowlitz Historical Quarterly Featured Map – Fall 2022
Searching our Collections
You can search a limited portion of our collections. Click on the button below to be directed to a search page in PastPerfect, the software we use to manage our collection.
It is often best to begin a search with a word that is very specific to the topic you need. If results are not found, you can try general words related to the topic.
If you need further assistance with your research, our Curator, Bill Watson, will be happy help.
Bill Watson, Collections Curator
watsonb@cowlitzwa.gov