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Reverend Cushing & Myra Eells

Founders of Whitman Seminary

(later to become Whitman College)

Pioneer missionaries Cushing and Myra Eells arrived in the Valley in 1838. Mrs. Eells was one of the first four Euro-American women to cross the continent. The Eells later settled among the Spokane Indians until the tragedy at the Whitman's mission in 1847, when they moved to the Willamette Valley.

They returned to the Walla Walla Valley at the close of the Indian wars in 1859 to reclaim the mission grounds at Waiilatpu (Whitman Mission). There, Cushing decided to found an educational institution, the Whitman Seminary, to honor the slain Whitman. He received a charter from the territorial legislature for that purpose the same year. Reverend Eels also helped establish Walla Walla's first Congregational church.

In 1883, what first was known as Whitman Seminary became Whitman College, as a result of constant work, guidance, and sacrifices by the Eells which continued throughout their lives. Reverend Eells is portrayed by Whitman College religion professor Rogers Miles and his wife, Myra, is played by Milton-Freewater Library Board member Barbara Coddington.

Museum patrons are encouraged to question the Eells. Visitors may also tour the Museum's many displays and historic buildings. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors (62+) and students, $3 for children 6-12, and free for members and children under 6. Through a reciprocal agreement, Tamástslikt Cultural Institute's Inwai Circle cardholders and enrolled members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation are also accorded free admission. For more information call the Museum at 509-525-7703 or email: info@fortwallawallamuseum.org