Washuxwal pavilion dedicated

WASHOUGAL — The sound of a steady drum beat and the singing of a blessing in the Chinookan language filled the afternoon air at the dedication of the Gathering Place at Washuxwal pavilion at the Two Rivers Heritage Museum on Sept. 18. The open pavilion design is inspired by traditional cedar plankhouses used by local tribes living along the shores of the Columbia River. It features Native-inspired wood carvings created by Adam McIsaac, project lead carver and adviser for the pavilion artwork, a respected expert in Native American art. According to the Camas Washougal Historical Society, their new pavilion is intended to recognize the contributions and tell the stories of the Native Americans who lived in this area of rushing waters. The Gathering Place at Washuxwal will play host to a variety of educational programs, as well as CWHS meetings and events. It can be toured between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays between now and the end of the month, when the museum closes for winter.