About

Mission 

The Shafer Historical Museum preserves and shares the history, culture and sense of place in the Methow Valley to inspire human connection and learning.

Vision

As one of the Methow Valley's centers for cultural engagement, SHM cultivates the appreciation of history across generations as a destination for locals and visitors to the region, state and nation.

Strategic Initiatives 2027-2030

Three strategic initiatives were identified by the Board and Museum Director in the 2026 planning process that will collectively move the Museum toward its vision as an integral cultural and community center in the Methow Valley. The Board will focus its collective energies and three main areas to focus efforts over the duration of this plan: 

Facilities 

A primary focus will be on the museum grounds, including the physical visitor experience, and the preservation of physical artifacts on display and in storage:  1) Create a new interpretive plan for the museum that is inclusive of all the residents of the Methow Valley during the time period of focus, 1880s-1940s. 2) Provide for physical rehabilitation and maintenance of the physical buildings including the Castle's roof and porch, and the walkway between Riverside Avenue and the Museum.

Community Outreach

This initiative includes the museum audiences and how the vision statement is enacted and achieved: the museum’s interaction with community groups such as schools, town councils, the museum’s current and potential volunteers. The emphasis over the duration this plan is on the physical museum, and scales back public programs.

Organization & Governance

This initiative encompasses museum leadership, staff, board development, financial sustainability, operational bylaws and the Okanogan County Historical Society, and long-term continuity.

SHM Board of Directors

The Shafer Historical Museum is overseen by a Board of Directors on behalf of the Okanogan County Historical Society.

Kyle Acord, Chair

Cyndi Mundhenk, Vice-Chair

Vic Stokes, Treasurer

Linda Wilson, Secretary

Hillary Kaltenbach

Craig Boesel

Craig McDonald

Anita Lince

Mike Kennedy

SHM Staff

A part-time staff serves the museum year-round. 

Suzanne Perin, Ph.D., Museum Director

Lindsay Morris, Volunteer Coordinator & Museum Educator