The Moses Lake Museum in Moses Lake, Washington, has a series of displays regarding the history of the region.
Geology
The history of the region begins with geology (shown above).
Shown above is a model of the Columbia Basin.
According to the display:
“The Columbia River Basalt Group is the primary source of groundwater in the Columbia Basin.
The porous interflow zones between the basalt layers contain the ancient aquifers that irrigation and residential wells draw their groundwater from.”
Prehistoric Cultures
Shown above is a display of archaeology.
According to the display:
“Archaeology is the study of human prehistory through material artifacts. In addition, accounts of local tribes, genetics and linguistic studies reconstruct daily life thousands of years ago. These many approaches detail the Columbia Basin’s gradual transition from the lifestyles of nomadic hunters to a culture centered on salmon.”
Shown above is a grinding stone used for processing seeds, nuts, and other foods.
Shown above is a display of stone projectile points.
Natural History
Shown above is a Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia). This is the only North American raptor that nests underground.
The Columbian Mammoth Skeleton
Artist Jud Turner was commissioned to create a life-sized Columbian Mammoth skeleton for the Moses Lake Museum. This sculpture was created from recycled materials, primarily old farm equipment and agricultural tools.
Wooden Model Airplanes
One of the displays features a display of handcrafted wooden aircraft built to scale by Hubert Vogt.
Adam East Artifact Collection
Adam East was an avid collector of American Indian artifacts. Born in 1871, East began collecting these artifacts as a child and his collection grew to over 2,200 items. Eventually his collection formed the basis of the Moses Lake Museum and Art Center where it is currently displayed.
More Museums
Museums 101: The Franklin County Historical Society and Museum (Photo Diary)
Museums 101: The Sacajawea Museum (Photo Diary)
Museums 101: The East Benton County Museum (Photo Diary)
Museums 101: The Presby House Museum (Photo Diary)
Museums 101: White River Valley Museum
Museums 101: The Renton History Museum
Museums 101: The Museum and Art Center, Sequim, WA (Photo Diary)
Museums 101: Wasco County Historical Museum (Photo Diary)
