Date: October 26, 2015
Contact: Tracy Fortmann, Superintendent, (360) 816-6205
Contact: Alex Patterson, Facility Manager, (360) 816-6221
The grand re-opening of the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Visitor Center at 1501 E Evergreen Blvd. will take place at a special event on Saturday, November 14, 2015, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This free opening will provide the public with their first look inside the remodeled 1961 facility, which has been closed for over a year during renovations. There will be refreshments and live music by the Vancouver Community Concert Band at the event. This grand opening coincides with the kickoff of the National Park Service's Centennial celebrations, and updates the facility to better serve the local community, visitors , and educational groups.
The most visible change to the building is its front entrance, which now includes a large covered area. The interior houses new interactive exhibits for adults and children, a state-of-the-art community and educational room, enhanced visitor amenities, and a bookstore, which will be operated by the nonprofit Friends of Fort Vancouver.
"There are so many stories in the history of this site that are relatable to a contemporary audience. In our new, more modern exhibits, we wanted to give voice to these stories, and allow visitors to the park a place to explore the similarities and differences between the present day and the past," said Meagan Huff, Assistant Curator. Additionally, the historic building now meets Gold LEED standards due to improvements to the building's safety, accessibility, and utility systems.
A special feature of the building's interior will be the distinctive work of internationally acclaimed American Indian artist Lillian Pitt. A collection of Pitt's sculpted masks will be on permanent display at the Visitor Center, and a wide range of her artwork and jewelry will be available for purchase in the bookstore. Also on permanent display will be several pieces by well-known Northwest artist and local resident Anne John.
"The Visitor Center is now a welcoming gathering place for the local community, visitors, and educational groups. We are excited to breathe new life into this facility, and offer a comfortable, beautiful place to introduce visitors to the site's attractions," said Superintendent Tracy Fortmann.
What: Fort Vancouver Visitor Center Grand Re-Opening
When: November 14, 2015, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Where: 1501 E Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98661
