You don’t have to live in Portland for long to realize that the city is rich with history. The Oregon Historical Society is dedicated to preserving that history and bringing it to life for today’s Oregonians. The museum has both permanent and rotating exhibits. The permanent exhibit entitled “Oregon My Oregon” won the 2005 MUSE Award. It includes many fascinating artifacts that belonged to the Native Americans and the first European settlers to live in Portland. Interactive stations help visitors connect with their past. The geology of Oregon and the ways it shaped the state’s history are explored in “Oregon: 150 Years of Statehood; 150 Million Years in the Making.” Some of the propaganda of World War II is on display until February 2016. This absorbing exhibit explores the ways words and images were used to unite the country for the war effort.

The museum is open to the public Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Admission for adults is $11; for seniors and students it’s $9; for youth ages 6 to 18 it’s $5; and children under 5 are free. If you own Portland property, bring your identification, because residents of Multnomah County get in free. You can help support the museum with a membership. Learn more about the museum and see some unique online exhibits at the Oregon Historical Society.