About Us

Mission
The mission of the Lakewood Historical Society is to identify, preserve and perpetuate Lakewood's history through educational programs, preservation and exhibits that celebrate the sites and people of Lakewood and its role in the development of the Pacific Northwest.

Lakewood History Museum
Located in the Colonial Center in the heart of Lakewood, this small storefront Museum brings to life Lakewood area history from its prehistoric period to the present time. Displays will feature natural history and geology, Native Americans, homesteaders to high-society, immigrant communities, local landmarks and more.

This is a small, accessible local history museum with a children’s area and museum store. It’s an easy visit to fit in with an afternoon of shopping or a lunch hour or for exploring children. To make a special history-related outing, do a mini-loop tour and visit 7 history museums within a 7 mile circle. Call or email the museum for planning assistance with group tours and to learn about special events and programs.

Founding & Legal Status
The Lakewood Historical Society was founded October 2, 1998. The Articles of Incorporation were certified by the Washington Secretary of State on October 15, 1998. The Society filed its application for IRS status as an exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 on October 2, 1998. Review the 2005 Annual Report.

Bylaws
The duties and responsibilities of Board officers and directors are described in the 2002 Bylaws. Society Bylaws and Board/Committee structure are undergoing review and revision in 2006 by the Board of Directors. Among other considerations will be the inclusion of two-three year rotating terms to ensure Board continuity. Revisions will be presented to the membership for review and adoption at the Annual Meeting.

Board of Directors
The Officers of the Society are President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer; the Immediate Past-President is an ex-officio member of the Board.  There are twelve (12) directors elected for one-year terms by the membership at the annual meeting in November of each year. Meet the LHS Board.

Committees
The President appoints at least one Board member to serve on each Standing Committee to provide Society leadership and liaison with the Board. Other committee members may be selected from the general membership. Non-members may be appointed as needed for their expertise. The Committee structure revisions in 2006 will include “job descriptions” for the following Standing Committees:

1. Executive Committee (Officers)
2. Budget & Finance
3. Collections & Archives
4. Communications
5. Fundraising
6. Historian
7. Membership
8. Planning & Facility Development
9. Programs, Events and Activities
10. Markers & Monuments
11. Public Relations, Marketing, Newsletter

Long-Range Plan (2006-2016)
On May 2nd, 2006, the Lakewood Historical Society Board of Directors adopted a ten-year Long-Range Plan to focus and guide its future growth and development. Phased for both short and long term objectives, the Plan is arranged in three sections.

1. Executive Summary; Background & Community History; Legal Authority, Structure & Mission
2. Facility Planning and Development; Essential Criteria; Check List for Museum Site/Facility Acquisition
3. Administrative components (10) based on accepted museum management standards and best practices, each with goals, specific objectives, tasks and timelines.

Learn more about the 10-year Long-Range Plan.