News/Announcements

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2026

Proposed State Budget Includes $77,000 for Restoration Work at Snohomish Historical Society Buildings

SNOHOMISH, Wash. - A proposed $77,000 allocation in the Washington State budget would support essential restoration work at two historic Snohomish landmarks: the 1878 Blackman House Museum and the 1938 Waltz Building, both operated by the Snohomish Historical Society.

This funding would cover the installation of two energy-efficient heat pumps and related upgrades to replace the “historic” yet malfunctioning heating systems. If approved by the Legislature and the Governor, this project will help protect and preserve our community’s shared heritage and vital resources for generations.

We extend our profound thanks to our dedicated local representatives, Representative April Berg, Representative Brandy Donaghy, and Senator John Lovick for their advocacy in championing this funding through the legislative process. We are also grateful for community activist and City Councilmember Terry Lippincott for helping   connect the organization with and understand the process.

"I'm proud to support the Snohomish Historical Society's essential work and grateful I could help,” she said.

The funding will not be final until approved by the Governor but we remain hopeful he will see the merit of this needed repair.

As a small, volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to Snohomish County history, this project will be transformative. 

"We’re incredibly grateful for this support,” said Laura Knudson, President of the Board of the Snohomish Historical Society. “This funding allows us to take care of important structural repairs now and put stronger systems in place to help sustain the museum for years to come.”

While this allocation represents a significant step foward, the Blackman House Museum still requires substantial ongoing restoration. We encourage community members to support this work by attending events like our Vault Sale Fundraiser (March 13-15), which helps meet these needs and keep local history accessible and alive.

For more information, to donate, or to attend the Vault Sale Fundraiser, visit snohomishhistoricalsociety.org or contact us at info@snohomishhistoricalsociety.org.

About the Snohomish Historical Society
The Snohomish Historical Society is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization committed to preserving and sharing the history of Snohomish County through exhibits, events, and educational programs at the historic 1878 Blackman House Museum and beyond.

Media Contact:
Melissa Becker    
Board Member, Snohomish Historical Society
Melissa@snohomishhistoricalsociety.org