MOHAI’S Collections

Even before the Seattle Historical Society’s incorporation in 1914, Seattleites were collecting their history.  Over the years, the society’s active volunteers preserved photographs, letters, clothing, tools, paintings and many other items relating to the history of their city and the region.  In 1952, the Museum of History & Industry opened in Montlake to house and exhibit the growing collection of library materials and three-dimensional objects.  Today, MOHAI’s collections can be found at the museum and at two off-site storage facilities.

The museum’s collections focus on the history of Seattle and the central Puget Sound region from the time of Euro-American settlement in 1851 to present day .  Items in the collections are used for exhibits and research, as well as for programs for children and the general public.

MOHAI’s collections include 3 million historical images, some 100,000 artifacts and a wealth of bound volumes, manuscripts, maps and charts, ephemera, oral history transcripts, and audio and video files.

MOHAI staff will be looking to acquire artifacts and other materials for the collection to enhance the exhibits at the new museum. Be sure to check back at this site for the MOHAI Artifact Wish List. The museum relies on the generosity of its donors to strengthen and broaden its collection of artifacts, photos, archives and other historical objects with respect to our mission. With your help and generosity, we look forward to creating exceptional exhibits in an exciting new museum.

If you’re interested in donating an item to MOHAI, click here.