EXHIBITS AND EVENTS FOR EVERY AGE

Experience Our Heritage and Culture

The Heritage Center is intended to protect preserve and perpetuate the culture traditions and identity of the Wanapum of Priest Rapids. It is located along the banks of the Columbia River, near Priest Rapids Dam, on the ancestral grounds of the Wanapum. The 50,000 sq ft facility houses a 10,000 sq ft permanent exhibit space, a 2,000 sq ft temporary rotating exhibit space, a climate controlled repository and collection facility, a library, staff offices and open space for large group activities conferences, demonstrations, training and living culture program activities.

Permanent Exhibit highlights include:

  • interactive monitors
  • 45-seat theatre
  • Wanapum history film "Life as a Wanapum"
  • dioramas and life-size tule mat lodge
  • audio interviews with Wanapum about gathering, fishing hunting, trading and healing
Free admission
Dedicated to the children of today -- and of the future -- to help them understand who they are and where they come from because you can’t grow unless you know who you are.

Wanapum Heritage Center Events

New Hours starting JUly 1

Mon, Thur, Fri | 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Tues, Wed | CLOSED

Sat, Sun | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

SPECIAL EXHIBIT

Sept 8, 2022 – Jan 15, 2023

Hanford Reach: In the Atomic Field Exhibit

Hanford Reach: In the Atomic Field

This exhibit maps the Hanford Site, a place of essence and importance to the Wanapum Band of Priest Rapids. Through photography, sound, and video the installation reflects the atomic histories of Hanford, and the secrecy that enshrouds them.

Created by Glenna Cole Allee
With Michael Paulus, videography, and Jon Leidecker, sound design
A collaborative animation with Gregory Cosmo Haun
And a print of the poem “Plume,” by Kathleen Flenniken

Preserving Lodge Building Traditions

About Our Center

For more than 60 years, the Wanapum and Grant PUD have worked together to protect, preserve and perpetuate the natural and cultural resources of the area. Located next to the Wanapum’s ancestral village and Priest Rapids Dam, this 50,000 square-foot building is instrumental in perpetuating the importance of the culture, traditions and beliefs of the Wanapum for years to come.

Quick Links

Information

FREE ADMISSION

HOURS
Mon: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Tues: CLOSED
Wed: CLOSED
Thu: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Fri: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sun: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

MAILING ADDRESS
29082 Washington 243
 Mattawa, WA 99349

PHONE
509-766-3461

©2017-23 Wanapum Heritage Center. All Rights Reserved.