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

Discover the untold stories of the past with our new Unlocking the Archives Series! Join Collections Expert Michael Langberg as we unveil and discuss rarely seen items currently sealed in our collection. Embark on a journey through personal belongings, powerful documents, and rare finds that bear witness to the enduring spirit of those who lived through the Holocaust. 

During this month's installment, Harmony and Tragedy: Musical Instruments from the Holocaust, we will explore the connections between music, culture, and survival by examining musical instruments from our archive. Don't miss the opportunity to see these rarely displayed artifacts and hear the stories they carry.

TO ATTEND: Please reserve a Museum Ticket for the afternoon of September 10.  Or, just email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Walk-ins are welcome. 

The Holocaust Center's annual Writing, Art, and Film contest received hundreds of entries from students across the Pacific Northwest. Students were asked to consider how a Holocaust survivor's experience with resistance during the Holocaust can inspire us to make meaningful change today. The winning art pieces are on display at the Holocaust Center. Learn more about the contest and view all of the winning entries here. 

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