The White River Valley Museum’s annual fund drive is under way and support is needed more than ever to help raise $7,000. Funds are used to support operations and free and low-cost community programs, including school field trips to the White River Valley Museum and Mary Olson Farm.

Visiting the White River Valley Museum is an inexpensive and fun way to learn about local Puget Sound art, history and culture. Contributions to the museum also help keep regular admission affordable. Admission is only $2 for adults, $1 for children and seniors, and free on Wednesdays.

“Contributions to the annual fund drive of any amount are welcome. Even the smallest gifts add up to make a big difference,” museum director Patricia Cosgrove said.

Here are examples of how contributions can help:

• $75 provides supplies for one of six summer programs held at the White River Valley Museum for free.

• $150 purchases apples and cups for 1,000 first grade students to make cider while visiting Mary Olson Farm.

• $150 also helps the museum offer free admission on Wednesdays.

• $350 buys a one-year supply of cream, salt and jars for 1,000 kindergarten students to make butter during field trips to the museum.

• $500 feeds the Leghorn chickens that reside in the historic chicken house on Mary Olson Farm.

Interested donors can mail their contributions to the White River Valley Museum at 918 H St. S.E. in Auburn or call 253-288-7433.

About Mary Olson Farm

The White River Valley Museum is working with the City of Auburn to restore Mary Olson Farm, the most intact 1880s family farm in King County. Mary Olson Farm is a King County Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Significant features include an 1897 barn, a 1902 farmhouse, a century-old orchard and two salmon runs in Olson Creek. The farm is scheduled to open to the public in 2010 as a living history and environmental learning site.

About the White River Valley Museum

The White River Valley Museum is a partnership with the City of Auburn and combines history and culture to create an exciting and educational experience for visitors. Museum collections focus on Puget Sound history, Northwest Indian culture, Japanese immigration and the Northern Pacific Railroad.

The White River Valley Museum is the best local history museum in the state according to the 2007 Washington State Visitors Guide.