From the Ground Up: Cortes Island Dwellings and Their Histories

The history of housing on Cortes Island is as storied as the structures that have provided protection from the elements. From float houses to tiny homes, rustic cabins to Rainbow Ridge, campers to co-ops, the people of Cortes repeatedly demonstrate resilience and innovation in the homes they have made.

Over time, the repurposing of structures, reuse of materials, and sharing of supplies have not only built dwellings but communities as well. Through archival photographs, artifacts, and audio interviews from the museum’s collection, as well as gathered stories and photographs, this new exhibition presents an overview of the history of dwellings on Cortes Island, current housing challenges, and the intersection of house and home.

Curated by Melanie Boyle and Monika Hoffmann

Please stay tuned for more information and the exhibition opening date.
Spring 2024
Opening date TBD

Photo credit: Float Camp Seymour Inlet, ca. 1950, the Gilean Douglas Collection, Cortes Island Museum & Archives.

To learn more about Cortes Island Museum and our programs and exhibitions, please check our website https://cortesmuseum.com/ and visit us on Facebook and Instagram.