Hear the story of a Holocaust survivor

When Peter Metzelaar was 7, the Nazis seized his entire family except for Peter and his mother. With the help of the Dutch Underground, Peter and his mother were sheltered by rescuers in Holland.

After the war, Peter and his mother immigrated to the United States. Although Peter spoke no English when he first arrived in the country, he worked hard in school and went on to have a successful career as a radiology technologist. Today, he continues to be an active member of the Holocaust Center for Humanity's Speakers Bureau.

On the first Sunday of every month, Peter is available in our museum to answer questions from the public and tell his personal story. This is a rare opportunity to hear the experiences of a Holocaust survivor in person.

"The first moment I stepped into the door, I was in awe."

- Feedback from a student visitor

Memories Unboxed: Rare photos from our archive

The Holocaust Center maintains an archive of over 8400 items, including more than 2700 photographs. These items come from Holocaust survivors, eyewitnesses, U.S. liberators and army personnel, all with a connection to Washington State. A selection of photographs from the archive is on display, highlighting the humanity of individuals and reshaping our narrative of the Holocaust.

Finding Light in the Darkness 

Through stories and artifacts of Washington State Holocaust survivors, the museum’s exhibit engages visitors in this history and challenges them to consider how each person’s actions make a difference.

Visitors can interact with video testimony from local Holocaust survivors, explore artifacts that bring history to life, and learn about local students who are upstanders in their schools and communities.

Image by Stefanie Felix 

Explore this exhibit virtually 

Take a virtual tour through our museum so you can plan your visit or experience our resources from your own home.

For teachers looking for classroom resources, our virtual field trips can bring the experience of visiting our museum to your classroom. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to book a docent-guided virtual field trip.

"I believe very strongly this is the most hopeful place in the city."

- Steve Adler, local Holocaust survivor

Suggested Admission

Security

All bags are subject to search, and weapons of any type are strictly not allowed in the museum, including guns, knives (even pocket knives), and pepper spray.

Directions and Parking