Friends of Fort Vancouver

10/06/2026

Three Cemetery Tours in Historic Vancouver, Washington
October 17, 2026
Cost: FREE

Archaeologist Dr. Doug Wilson and Friends of Fort Vancouver Executive Director Mary Rose will lead a guided tour through Vancouver’s three oldest cemeteries: the Hudson’s Bay Company Cemetery, Vancouver Barracks National Cemetery, and Vancouver's Old City Cemetery. Who were the notable people interred here? Why were they buried in that cemetery? Whose graves were moved and why? There’s a lot to be learned about the history of Southwest Washington as you walk transfixed by tales told by two master researchers and storytellers.

Tours will begin on the half hour at each location. Participants are responsible for transportation between cemeteries. Join us for one, two, or all three of these tours. Tours will take place rain or shine. Tour routes will cover unpaved ground; please wear sturdy shoes and come prepared for the weather!

Please register for each tour that you wish to take at: https://www.friendsfortvancouver.site/ (Scroll down to the bottom of the page where the events are listed!)

Old City Cemetery Tour (1:30 pm - 2:15 pm)
Meet at 1:30 pm at the northwest corner of the Old City Cemetery, 2700 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661

Vancouver Barracks National Cemetery Tour (2:30 pm - 3:15 pm)
Meet at 2:30 pm at the Vancouver Barracks National Cemetery, 1455 E 4th Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661

Hudson's Bay Company Cemetery Tour (3:30-4:15 pm)
Meet at 3:30 pm at the Clark County Veterans War Memorial
791 McClellan Rd,, Vancouver, WA 98661

09/19/2026

Join us for the Holiday Book Fest on November 7, 2026, at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center Bookstore, 1501 E. Evergreen Blvd. in Vancouver. This sales event runs from 10 am to 3 pm and offers a unique opportunity for holiday shoppers to meet 12 esteemed local authors, explore a diverse range of genres, and acquire personalized, signed books for friends, family, and loved ones.
Featured authors include Patty Grasher, Martin Middlewood, M.C. Zander, Melanie Dobson, Jordan Fitch, Tiffany Dickinson, Paula Charles, Temple Lentz, Gretchen McLellan, Deb Cushman, Richard Wing, and Nicole M. Miller, catering to various reading interests such as fiction, mystery, historical fiction, children's literature, and local interest. Notably, five participating authors specialize in children's books, making this event an ideal destination for multi-generational gift-giving.
Unlike larger book fairs, the Holiday Book Fest is designed as an intimate, relaxed gathering where attendees can engage with authors, learn about their works, and enjoy a festive outing at historic Fort Vancouver. Additionally, the Friends will be hosting several talented artists in the lobby, including Mick the creative Tinsmith and Mary with her exquisite beadwork, among others. Twenty percent of each book sale will support the Friends of Fort Vancouver's outreach programs. Admission is free, and the event will take place from 10 am to 3 pm.

09/18/2026

Unlock the stories of the past! Join us on September 26, 2026, as we celebrate the rich tapestry of the Pacific Northwest through the voices of its early inhabitants. 📣 Indigenous, Metis, Fur Traders, Missionaries, American Settlers, and Military Families are explored through their experiences, hopes, and dreams, and in their own words. 🌟 Presented by Kate Hobbie, Mary Rose, and Special Guests, this program will inspire you to imagine a brighter future, built on the foundations of understanding and empathy towards past people.

Program begins at 1 PM at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center (1501 East Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661). Secure your spot now: https://www.friendsfortvancouver.site/

FOFV National Historic Site is a dynamic non-profit organization focused on activities that encourage cultural awareness.

08/03/2026

Get ready to soar to new heights at the annual Pearson Airfield & Museum Fly-in on August 15 from 10 AM to 3 PM! 🛩️✨ Join us for an unforgettable day of inspiration, connection, and community, featuring special guest speakers, engaging children's programs, and interactive community booths. Let's come together to celebrate the power of flight and the limitless possibilities it brings! Pearson Air Museum (1115 E 5th St, Vancouver, WA 98661)

08/03/2026

Elevate Your Creative Voice and Nurture Your Spirit 🌿 Join Starr Slagiel (Yaqui/Pueblo) and Nanette Robinson (Yakama) for a rejuvenating 3-hour workshop, where you'll learn traditional beading and leatherwork techniques. Take home a stunning, handmade necklace, newfound skills, and a deeper connection to your inner wisdom. Through guided breathwork and meditation, quiet your mind, balance your energy, and set intentions for artistic creativity. All supplies included.
When: Saturday, August 29, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM PDT,
Where: Fort Vancouver Visitor Center, 1501 East Evergreen BLVD, Vancouver, WA 98661.
Cost: $65.00.
Sign up at: https://www.friendsfortvancouver.site/
(Scroll to upcoming events)

07/31/2026

THIS SATURDAY! Get ready to be inspired and see how baskets weave together environment, tradition, art, and heritage! The Friends of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site are thrilled to host the Columbia Basin Basketry Guild at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center (1501 E Evergreen Blvd. Vancouver, WA 98661) for a basket weaving demonstration. Saturday, August 1, 2026.

Join us anytime between 10 AM - 2 PM to celebrate creativity, community, and connection! 🌟

07/30/2026

Today, we celebrate the International Day of Friendship! 🌎💕 We're grateful for the incredible friends from all over the world who visit us and share our passion for preserving history. The Friends of the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is a shining example of collaboration and unity, working hand-in-hand with the National Park Service to drive meaningful projects and programs. Sites like Fort Vancouver can help build bridges between communities and inspire a culture of peace and understanding. Learn more about the friends at: https://www.friendsfortvancouver.site/
Learn more about the International Day of Friendship at: https://www.un.org/en/observances/friendship-day
💕

07/28/2026

Who's a birthday bear? Smokey Bear is! 🎉 Join the party on August 8 from 10 AM to Noon at the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Visitor Center (1501 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661). The Friends are teaming up with the Vancouver Fire Dept, American Red Cross, US Forest Service, and the National Park Service to make it a wild and hopefully smoke-free celebration! I can barely contain my excitement!

07/27/2026

Unlock the Power of Creativity! 🌟 Join the Columbia Basin Basketry Guild for a demonstration on August 1 from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Fort Vancouver Visitor Center (1501 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661). Empower your inner artisan and discover the potential for positive change - all for free! 💚

07/23/2026

Unleash Your Creativity! 🦊 Join our Raku Fired Ceramic Animal Masks Class on July 25, 2026, from 10 AM to 12:30 PM, led by expert instructors Russ Ford and Nathan LacQuaye. This two-part workshop welcomes all skill levels, ages 10+, to explore their artistic side! 🎨 Registration is $45 per person, including both mask creation and firing classes.
Sign up here: https://www.friendsfortvancouver.site/ (Fees are nonrefundable. Limited to 25 spots!)
SATURDAY, July 25, 10:00 AM, Fort Vancouver Visitor Center, followed by the firing workshop on August 8, 11 AM, at Kadence Collective. Get inspired by Lillian Pitt's art and discover the artist within you! 🌟