What Can You Find Here
From preserving history to public engagement
Sandy Historical Society began as a museum in 1926 but didn’t reside in a building until 2004, the same building it resides in today. In 2009, the museum reopened with its expansion of a new gift shop. 2016 is when the museum became not only a museum, but the official visitor center for Sandy. While it is a museum that works to preserve history, it became more than that for residents and tourists alike.
In the museum are numerous exhibits detailing the history of Sandy, from its beginning of how it gained its name to artifacts from local businesses today. The Historical Society shares and preserves the history of Sandy but it dives deeper than that: they work to express that history didn’t end with the pioneers, but continued with people and businesses in Sandy shaping history today.
The museum also acts as a shared space, hosting events with different businesses. A monthly event is their art class with Wy’East Kids Art Class which is now for FREE. Kids from ages 7-13 can partake in their craft that not only offer enjoyment but history lessons. Some crafts they have done include making cards, stained glass, paintings and wash woollies.
A new business in Sandy is Once Upon A Tome, a bookstore that includes historic books. The museum has partnered to host book events that offer people an opportunity to shop for books that follow their monthly theme.
During the city of Sandy’s town events, the museum has an active role, offering activities. For the tree lighting ceremony, the museum hosted activities including Christmas crafts, an ongoing tradition. They also were a stop during the Trick-or-Treat Trail and Stocking Stroll.
To support teens in the community, the museum recently offered to train job experience for ages 14-16. Through this, the teens will gain the necessary experience for the workforce and support the museum. They also support kids by offering a summer camp starting in summer of 2026.
A new program coming up as well is the inclusive volunteer program which allows people with disabilities to engage and work with the museum.
A fun, engaging activity is the monthly scavenger hunt through the museum. Kids can search to find the clues in order to find the message Dandy the Bear is saying, with new answers every month. Kids can also enjoy the free buddy book program upstairs where they can read or leave a book. An open play area is also available.
Within the museum is a gift shop, showcasing items from local businesses. It is continuing to expand but currently offers jewelry, stickers, postcards, maps, candles, soaps, books, crochet items and more.
The museum entrance acts as a visitor center offering guides of various Oregon areas, snow park permits, bus passes and information about the area from its trained staff.
The Board of Directors serves the society for their needs but now, a collection committee also supports the museum.
In 2026, the museum has historic book club and programs for the public to participate in and enjoy.