Nat Washington House in Ephrata honored during Historic Preservation Month celebration

EPHRATA — History came to life in Ephrata this week as state and local historical organizations gathered at the Nat Washington House to celebrate Historic Preservation Month and recognize the legacy of one of the region’s most influential figures. 

Representatives from the Jonas Babcock Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Spokane Falls Chapter Daughters of the American Colonists, and Spokane Chapter No. 1 Sons of the American Revolution traveled from across Washington to take part in the ceremony, which also ties into the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. 

“We are here today in the middle of the celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday to celebrate Historic Preservation Month and to honor a man known as ‘The Conscience of the Senate,’” said Rae Anna Victor, regent of the Jonas Babcock Chapter DAR. 

The event featured a formal flag presentation, invocation and a series of speakers highlighting both the importance of historic preservation and the life of Nathaniel “Nat” Washington Jr., a longtime state senator from Grant County whose influence shaped infrastructure and development across Washington state. 

Washington, born in 1914 — the same year the house was built — was widely recognized for his leadership and integrity during his decades in public service. 

“Nathaniel ‘Nat’ Washington Jr. was known as the conscience of the Senate,” said Susan Walker, historical preservation chair for the Jonas Babcock Chapter DAR. “He was a driving force behind the development of the Priest Rapids and Wanapum dams.” 

Speakers emphasized Washington’s contributions to irrigation development in the Columbia Basin, the expansion of transportation networks, and his role in helping to bring projects like Grand Coulee Dam to fruition. 

“He was responsible for the construction of hundreds of miles of farm-to-market roads, as well as for irrigating the Columbia Basin to blossom,” said Lavonne Whittaker, from the Spokane Falls Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.  

Those efforts, organizers said, helped lay the foundation for the region’s agricultural success and long-term economic stability. 

The ceremony also underscored the broader importance of historic preservation, particularly as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. 

“This endeavor is one of the pillars of our organizations as we seek to help preserve the places in our communities that will assist in saving our history,” said Shirley Stirling, regent of the Washington State Society Daughters of the American Colonists. “Those who do not look upon themselves as a link, connecting the past with the future, do not perform their duty to the world.” 

As part of the celebration, the City of Ephrata was presented with a certificate of appreciation recognizing its commitment to preserving local history. The recognition aligns with a proclamation issued earlier this month by Mayor Steve Oliver designating May 2026 as Historic Preservation Month. 

In the proclamation, Oliver encouraged residents to celebrate their shared heritage and ensure “the stories of our past continue to inspire our future.” 

The Nat Washington House served as the centerpiece of the event. The house has been preserved and curated by owner Mike Scellick, who has spent years restoring and protecting its historical artifacts. 

Following the ceremony, Scellick said he was overwhelmed by the turnout and support. 

“Surprised. Amazing. Overwhelmed,” he said. “People came from all over the state to come here… to honor that and honor the family.” 

Scellick said the recognition not only highlights the significance of the house but also brings attention to the broader history of Ephrata and Grant County. 

“That’s really cool, because that’s going to expand everything,” he said. “Not only for the house, but museums, anybody else…there’s so much history around here.” 

Originally, Scellick said, he had planned to turn the house into a bed-and-breakfast. That plan changed after he discovered the depth of its historical importance and reached an agreement with the Washington family to preserve the site. 

“I had an agreement that I would preserve everything, never sell (anything),” he said. “You never feel like it’s yours. It’s the community’s. It’s everybody’s.” 

That sense of shared stewardship was echoed throughout the ceremony, as speakers encouraged residents to take an active role in preserving local history and educating future generations. 

The event also highlighted newly uncovered artifacts tied to the Washington family, further illustrating the depth of history connected to the site. Scellick pointed to items such as an original invitation related to the Washington Monument dedication, underscoring the family’s long-standing historical ties. 

Organizers hope the recognition of the Nat Washington House will spark increased public interest, tourism and community engagement. Plans are already underway to further develop historical displays in the city, including additional kiosks and interpretive signage. 

Speakers said Ephrata’s history, while sometimes less visible than older East Coast cities, is still rich and meaningful. 

“Your citizens have a plethora of history right here in your backyard,” Victor said, encouraging greater awareness and preservation efforts. 

The ceremony concluded with a reminder of Washington’s lasting impact and the broader purpose of preserving history. 

“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit,” Victor said, quoting author Nelson Henderson. 

For many attendees, the message was clear: preserving places like the Nat Washington House ensures that future generations will not only remember the past but learn from it. 

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, organizers said events like this serve as a reminder that history is not just something to look back on — it is something communities continue to build, protect and pass on. 

    Ephrata Mayor Pro Tempore Matt Moore (left) and Nat Washington House owner Mike Scellick, right, uncover the new plaque at the house Friday afternoon.
  

    An inside look at the Nat Washington House, which includes books Washington read and left notes within. The house is available for overnight stays to vetted parties, according to the owner Mike Scellick.
  

    Ephrata Mayor Pro Tempore Matt Moore (far left) and Nat Washington owner Mike Scellick (second from right) stand with members of the Spokane Chapter of Sons of the American Revolution.
  

    The Nat Washington House was built in 1914 and now stands as a historical building remembering Nathaniel “Nat” Washington Jr. and his family. The house is located at 32 C St. NW in Ephrata.