Between late 2001 and early 2003, construction was underway on the Parkside Building at the intersection of Deschutes Way and C Street SW. As crews excavated the foundation, they uncovered an assortment of broken china, glass, bottles, and rusted iron pieces—including a large horseshoe. Building owners Jim Bennett and Keith Thomas carefully preserved every item, later displaying the collection in their RE/MAX office lobby for visitors to enjoy.

Some of the artifacts may date back as far as the Oregon Trail era, though most appear to be from the early 1900s through the 1930s. The site itself has deep roots in Tumwater’s history—it once belonged to pioneer mill owner Ira Ward, who had a large home there. It was also the location of the Tumwater Literary Hall, a gathering place for both public and private events. After those early structures were removed, other homes were built on the property, adding layers to its story and likely to the variety of artifacts found there.

Now that RE/MAX is moving, they wanted to ensure these treasures from Tumwater’s past would remain preserved and appreciated. They reached out to the Foundation, and we were delighted to accept the collection.

Many thanks to Jim Bennett for safeguarding these pieces of local history and for entrusting them to the Olympia Tumwater Foundation—where their stories can continue to be shared for years to come.