The Harbor History Museum in Gig Harbor, closed since 2008 while awaiting the construction of a new 15,000 square foot facility on the downtown waterfront, has just received a naming gift of $1.5 million. The gift is from the Sehmel family, and will enable the museum to open on September 18 this year as the Sehmel Family Harbor History Museum.

“We are proud that the new museum will bear the name of the Sehmel family, whose long history on the Peninsula is one of hard work, community involvement and generosity,” said Walt Smith, board president.

The gift reduces the museum’s remaining fundraising goal to $500,000.

“As we near the finish line for this community project, I hope that everyone will get involved by making a donation, buying a naming brick, or becoming a Charter Member of the new museum,” said executive director Jennifer Kilmer.

The museum has documented the history of Gig Harbor and the Peninsula since 1973. The new building will include a new permanent exhibit Connected by Water; a gallery holding the 65-foot fishing vessel Shenandoah and the historic Thunderbird Hull #1; and the fully restored Midway School.  

Entry at the opening will be free. More information: www.harborhistorymuseum.org