Members Only Preview
Clarke Historical Museum’s First Members-Only Preview of 2025.
Date: Friday, February 7th, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
The Clarke Historical Museum invites you to the first-panel session for the History of McKinleyville Exhibition, a members-only event celebrating the rich history of this vibrant community.
About the Event
This exhibit, made possible by the generous support of Mad River Rotary, shines a spotlight on McKinleyville's historical narrative. In gratitude for their partnership, this event is open to both Clarke Historical Museum members and Mad River Rotary members.
Enjoy an evening of storytelling accompanied by complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks, as we explore McKinleyville’s past through the insights and experiences of our knowledgeable panelists:
PanelistsRusty Moore: A dedicated volunteer with the Timber Heritage Association, Rusty played a crucial role in preserving pieces of McKinleyville’s railroad and logging history. From rescuing locomotives to safeguarding steam donkeys, Rusty has been instrumental in preserving Humboldt County’s industrial heritage.
Ben Shepherd: Raised in the Arcata Bottoms, Ben is a former owner of McKinleyville’s A&L Feed Store and has served five terms with the McKinleyville Community Services District. His contributions to recreation, library development, and other community initiatives have left a lasting impact.
Joe Wahlund: A fourth-generation Humboldt County native, Joe has lived in McKinleyville for over 35 years. As a former operator of A&L Feed and a former board member of the McKinleyville Community Services District, he brings a wealth of knowledge about the town’s history and growth.
Wendy Wahlund: A past president and current trustee of the Clarke Historical Museum, Wendy has been a passionate advocate for local history for over 30 years. As a former owner of A&L Feed, she has a deep connection to McKinleyville’s historic Isaac Minor Store, built in 1897.
About the Exhibit
McKinleyville, home to over 16,000 residents, has long awaited a dedicated space to showcase its history. From its Indigenous roots to its evolution into a modern community, this exhibit presents a well-researched and engaging journey through time. Highlights include:
Stories of the area’s Indigenous history.
Early settlement and pioneering ranching families.
The legendary foggiest airport in the U.S. (once cleared with flamethrowers!).
WWII’s impact and the growth of infrastructure.
The rise and fall of the poultry industry.
Development of schools, historical sites, and the Hammond Trail.
Not a Member Yet?
Now’s the perfect time to join! Members get exclusive access to events like this one. Visit clarkemuseum.org/membership to become a member or purchase your membership at the museum.
Let’s come together to celebrate McKinleyville’s history, enjoy delicious refreshments, and uncover the stories that shaped this incredible community.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Date: Friday, February 7th, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
The Clarke Historical Museum invites you to the first-panel session for the History of McKinleyville Exhibition, a members-only event celebrating the rich history of this vibrant community.
About the Event
This exhibit, made possible by the generous support of Mad River Rotary, shines a spotlight on McKinleyville's historical narrative. In gratitude for their partnership, this event is open to both Clarke Historical Museum members and Mad River Rotary members.
Enjoy an evening of storytelling accompanied by complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks, as we explore McKinleyville’s past through the insights and experiences of our knowledgeable panelists:
PanelistsRusty Moore: A dedicated volunteer with the Timber Heritage Association, Rusty played a crucial role in preserving pieces of McKinleyville’s railroad and logging history. From rescuing locomotives to safeguarding steam donkeys, Rusty has been instrumental in preserving Humboldt County’s industrial heritage.
Ben Shepherd: Raised in the Arcata Bottoms, Ben is a former owner of McKinleyville’s A&L Feed Store and has served five terms with the McKinleyville Community Services District. His contributions to recreation, library development, and other community initiatives have left a lasting impact.
Joe Wahlund: A fourth-generation Humboldt County native, Joe has lived in McKinleyville for over 35 years. As a former operator of A&L Feed and a former board member of the McKinleyville Community Services District, he brings a wealth of knowledge about the town’s history and growth.
Wendy Wahlund: A past president and current trustee of the Clarke Historical Museum, Wendy has been a passionate advocate for local history for over 30 years. As a former owner of A&L Feed, she has a deep connection to McKinleyville’s historic Isaac Minor Store, built in 1897.
About the Exhibit
McKinleyville, home to over 16,000 residents, has long awaited a dedicated space to showcase its history. From its Indigenous roots to its evolution into a modern community, this exhibit presents a well-researched and engaging journey through time. Highlights include:
Stories of the area’s Indigenous history.
Early settlement and pioneering ranching families.
The legendary foggiest airport in the U.S. (once cleared with flamethrowers!).
WWII’s impact and the growth of infrastructure.
The rise and fall of the poultry industry.
Development of schools, historical sites, and the Hammond Trail.
Not a Member Yet?
Now’s the perfect time to join! Members get exclusive access to events like this one. Visit clarkemuseum.org/membership to become a member or purchase your membership at the museum.
Let’s come together to celebrate McKinleyville’s history, enjoy delicious refreshments, and uncover the stories that shaped this incredible community.
We can’t wait to see you there!