Washington State history

The doors to the Washington State Library in Tumwater could close to the public later this year. That’s because the Washington Secretary of State’s Office will likely be reducing staff; 47 employees have received notices that they could be laid off due to reductions in state and federal funding. If that happens, the public won’t be able to access rare items stored in collections at the library.

The landmark 1974 case ordered Washington to uphold its treaties, affirm Indigenous salmon fishing rights and recognize Native nations’ sovereignty.

Emotions flooded the State Reception Room in Olympia Jan. 10 as tribal leaders, Washington lawmakers, and community members came together to witness the unveiling of the maquette of Billy Frank Jr. The maquette, a smaller replica of a 9-foot tall statue of Frank that will go to the National Statuary Hall collection, honors the late champion for Native American treaty rights and natural resources.

All Hallow’s Eve is just around the corner, and the home of the Washington State Governor has some mysteries of the mansion to unveil — just in time for spooky season!