The History of PHS
The Poulsbo Historical Society was established in 1991 by a small group of long-time residents who were concerned about keeping the history and artifacts of early Poulsbo within the community. Early meetings centered around “chat” sessions where stories were told and recorded. Artifacts soon followed, and, without a building or museum, were stored in the basements and barns of members. In 1992 the organization was offered a small storage room at city hall to use as an office and two storage units were donated to the society for artifacts. In 1996, with a board in place, a small office, and storage units brimming with artifacts, the board hired a part-time director to lead a collection inventory and put the organization on firm ground.
Monthly meetings were held at the Sons of Norway with speakers when available. In 2006 the City, with the aid of the Bight of Poulsbo, installed the historic Martinson Cabin in Nelson Park. The Historical Society volunteered to maintain exhibits inside the cabin with the promise of keeping it open for public viewing. It was our first attempt at operating a museum. The Martinson Cabin is now open on Saturdays for visitors and can be opened for special events by appointment.
