Bainbridge Island’s unique history spans all areas of the island. The Bainbridge History Museum has a history of its own, one that includes a one-room schoolhouse, which has been moved around the island many times since 1908. As proud locals, we wanted to know more. So, we consulted an expert: Lindsay Ogles with the Bainbridge History Museum (BHM). Check out our Q&A with Lindsay below to learn about her role and the fascinating ways BHM sheds light on our community’s past.

Lindsay Ogles, Director of Exhibits and Engagement

What is your role with the Bainbridge History Museum, and how long have you been with the organization?

I am the Director of Exhibits & Engagement (AKA: Curator). I’ve been with the museum for the past three years and have always wanted to work in public history. I love being able to share stories that shaped communities and the way that we live decades and even centuries later.

Can you tell us a little bit about the history of the Bainbridge History Museum?

The Bainbridge History Museum started as the Bainbridge Island Historical Society in the 1970s. We first opened a museum building at Strawberry Hill Park but then relocated to Ericksen Avenue in 2004.

When curating new exhibits or programs, what considerations are used when deciding what to highlight?

We do our best to highlight well-loved topics in new ways alongside new topics to help bring previously undiscussed history and perspectives to light. We aim to include the whole of the island and are always on the lookout for new materials and stories that can be preserved and shared about life on Bainbridge Island.

What would you consider to be the most unique part of Bainbridge history?

Bainbridge Island has so many unique aspects to our history. From sites like Yama to our industrial history in lumber mills and creosoting, we stand out amongst other historical areas in Kitsap County. Add to that our famous Marshall strawberries and we even hit the international marker for fascinating history. In fact, we sent some of our Marshall strawberries to the Queen of England in the late 1930s.

What are the best ways that community members can show support?

People can help us keep Bainbridge Island’s stories alive with a donation or by becoming a member. Our members get discounted admission to a number of our events and free admission to our monthly History Huddles. We invite everyone to come and visit the Museum. We are open daily and free to the public.

What new or exciting things are coming in 2026?

We have several fun events coming up this summer! On July 19th, join us as we Set Sail Into History on a 3-hour scenic lunch cruise around Bainbridge Island. Or, come celebrate our pickleball history August 5th – 9th as the Museum hosts the 7th Annual Bainbridge Island Founders Tournament. Also, we invite everyone to come see our newest exhibit on display through December 2026 called Dearly Departed. It covers Bainbridge Island between 1900 and 1950 through medical history. Come learn about everything from unexpected causes of death to hazardous working environments, and our island’s historic cemeteries.

Which area of the island has the most history, and why?

Every bit of Bainbridge Island is steeped in history. From major population centers and industrial sites to the rolling farmlands and military bases turned parks, Bainbridge Island has history around every turn.

Anything else you would like folks to know about Bainbridge History or the Museum?

We are officially open DAILY 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, offering more days of history and fun every day of the week! Come see us in person and check out the museum. People can also follow along with everything we are doing by following us on Facebook and Instagram!

A big thank you to Lindsay and the BHM team for showcasing Bainbridge Island’s history. Want to learn more about our amazing community? Check out our Guide to Bainbridge. Or, learn more about different Bainbridge Island neighborhoods.