Eastside Heritage Center

VISION

To be an organization that enhances community through the preservation and stewardship of the Eastside's history.

MISSION

To steward Eastside History by actively collecting, preserving, and interpreting documents and artifacts and by promoting public involvement in, and appreciation of, this heritage through educational programming and community outreach.

COMMITMENT TO EQUITY

The Eastside Heritage Center is committed to ensuring that the stories of all people within our community are heard. We recognize that one of the greatest challenges facing the local history field is ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives are heard and included in the story.  We believe that change comes through education and as a community resource it is our duty to generate realistic and accurate historical education and historical interpretation that is inclusive. By fostering dialogue and inviting individuals to contribute their perspective to our collections and historical research, we will create an inclusive view of our community’s past. Our interpretation of history comes from the broad community and we invite all residents of East King County to share their unique stories with us and participate in our organization so that we may better represent the complete history of the Eastside.

History

Eastside Heritage Center (EHC) is the primary guardian and steward of Bellevue and Eastside history, committed to preserving the past, building community, and connecting people with their heritage. EHC was formed in 2001 through the merger of the Bellevue Historical Society and Marymoor Museum of Eastside History. We have maintained and preserved what is now a collection of over 60,000 artifacts, photos, oral histories, and other archival material from individuals, businesses, families, and institutions representing the entire Eastside community. Not only do we care for and grow this trove of historical artifacts and information, share that history with our community satellite exhibits, events, presentations, and other educational programs. Through its stewardship and outreach, EHC has a track record of engaging a changing and diverse population with the Eastside's history, creating opportunities for multi-generational and cross-cultural dialogue. We're currently conducting a contemporary oral history project, The Living History Project, which will help us capture the stories of those who live and work on the Eastside.