Listen to this article

Details

Date

Permanant Exhibit

Time

Ages

All Ages

Location

114 E 3rd Ave, Ellensburg, WA 98926

Great Ellensburg Fire

Permanent Exhibits

Permanant Exhibit

On July 4, 1889 at 10:30pm, the young city of Ellensburgh caught fire and by the time the flames were extinguished four hours later, ten downtown blocks and the homes of two hundred individuals lay in ruins.

While it is known where the fire started, what happened, and how the community rebuilt the City within four months, the cause has never been determined.

This exhibit takes a look at the various causes—from accidental to incendiary—and the possible motives behind each, and features newspaper clippings, historic photographs, and even a clock that survived the fire.

More to Explore at the Museum

First Friday Art Walk

October 3, 2024, 5 PM - 7 PM

Join us to experience and explore the history, heritage, and culture of Kittitas County.

Guided History Walking Tour

July 26, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Learn about Downtown Ellensburg’s history and heritage through free guided walking tour with historian Mike McCloskey!

Weaving Circle

November 3, 2025, 6-8 PM

This event provides a space for weavers to bring their projects and work, share, learn and enjoy. These events are open to the community at large!