When the British ship Glenmorag wrecked near Ocean Park on March 18, 1896, she unknowingly brought a lasting legacy to Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula. The story is one of many that will be shared at the Pacific County History Forum on April 3.

OYSTERVILLE — “Most of us who live here in Southwestern Washington know stories of famous shipwrecks and of the valiant efforts to rescue crews, passengers, cargo and the ships themselves,” says Sydney Stevens, local historian.

“And some of us have knowledge of the lasting legacy to our area that many of those disasters inadvertently provided. Next Wednesday, April 3, will be a time to share some of those stories at the History Forum from 10 a.m. until noon at the Oysterville School. Please come!”

Since beginning in September 2023 and considering a different topic on the first Wednesday of each month, this will be the eighth meeting of the forum with one more scheduled for May. Starting with a look at “How We Got Here” — by ox-drawn wagons or sailing ships or a long walk across the continent — each forum has explored the pioneer experience and the gradual development of the industries and occupations that have continued to sustain us.

“It’s definitely an overview,” says author and historian Michael Lemeshko. “We can only hit the highlights, but thanks to continuing local interest and to the resources of the Pacific County Historical Society, Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum, our local libraries and booksellers, there are many avenues available for those who want to learn more.”

Among those who will be talking about “Wrecks ’N’ Rescues” will be Phil Allen, whose great-grandfather came ashore here in 1896 — and stayed. Doug Knutzen, leader of the South Pacific County Technical Rescue Team, will focus on rescue techniques “then and now,” and forum organizers Stevens and Lemeshko will also focus on wrecks and rescues, respectively.

Moderator Dayle Olson encourages all history buffs with interest in our Graveyard of the Pacific to join in the storytelling or just come and enjoy the tales of tall ships and deep rescues!