Native American Community
Indigenous peoples have lived in the Vancouver region since time immemorial. The land now known as Vancouver, Washington, is the ancestral home of the Chinook, Cowlitz, and Klickitat nations. For thousands of years, these communities thrived along the Columbia River, using it as a vital trade route that connected diverse peoples across the Pacific Northwest. Today, the Chinook, Cowlitz, Klickitat, and other tribal communities continue to honor their deep connection to this land through cultural practices, language revitalization, and stewardship of the environment. Projects like the Confluence Project celebrate this living heritage, highlighting the traditions and legacies that shape the region. The Indigenous peoples, both past and present, remain integral stewards of these lands, and their enduring influence continues to resonate in the Vancouver area today.
"The landscapes of untold centuries lie beneath the city of Vancouver and the surrounding towns of Southwest Washington"- Tanna Engdahl, Cowlitz Indian Elder and Spiritual Leader.
Native American Voices
Confluence Project—An initiative honoring Native American history and culture across the Pacific Northwest. Learn more about the region's Indigenous heritage through art installations and educational programs.
Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum—With picture windows peering out onto the Columbia River, this museum in Stevenson recounts the 40-million-year history of the Columbia River Gorge region. Visitors can trace the important influence of the area’s First Peoples, the Cascade Chinook, and admire early baskets and other works of art.
Clark County Historical Museum—Visit the museum to explore exhibits that showcase local Indigenous stories, cultural presentations, and events. The museum celebrates the history and traditions of Native communities in the Pacific Northwest, collaborating with tribes to provide information in their own words.
The Unseen Power of the Cowlitz Tribe—The article was written by Tanna Engdahl, Cowlitz Tribe Elder and Spiritual Leader, for the 2023 feature story in the Visit Vancouver WA Travel Magazine.
Spirit Rangers—A Netflix animated series created by and for Native Americans, following the adventures of three Indigenous siblings in a fictional national park. The show highlights Native voices and stories, featuring Cowlitz Tribal members Joey Clift and Debora Iyall.