When the Makah Museum opened its doors in 1979, the world was introduced to Makah Culture through the exposure of artifacts excavated from Ozette Village and their thoughtful and rich interpretation by Makah Elders, whose stories and life experiences brought both the artifacts and Makah traditions to the attention and experience of visitors from around the world. The museum has provided unparalleled learning opportunities to the public through exhibits, tours, demonstrations, and programs for nearly 38 years.

The Makah Cultural and Research Center (MCRC) is proud to announce receipt of a $232,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Sustaining Cultural Heritage Collections Program to replace the aging lighting systems within exhibit and collection areas of the Makah Museum. The project will provide improved environmental conditions that will aid artifact conservation by reducing heat and ultraviolet light. The new LED system will include timers and occupancy sensors, which together will reduce energy consumption by as much as 70 percent in these areas. Visitors can expect visual improvements through increased light levels within the exhibit spaces.

The Makah Museum’s exhibits of pre-contact Ozette artifacts are of the highest quality and are not displayed anywhere else in the world. It is important to continue to serve the public as the facility is upgraded. The museum will continue to stay open during the project with limited interruption in the exhibits.

There will be a two-day closure on March 7 and 8 while electricians will need power to be off. Normal hours will resume on March 9. The MCRC is located in Neah Bay, WA on the Olympic Peninsula and the Makah Museum is open to the public 7 days per week from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission prices are $6 for Adults, $5 for students and senior citizens, children 5 years and younger are free.