With Ryderwood and Longview approaching their centennials in 2023, members of Ryderwood's AMVETs Post 7010 formed the Ryderwood History Project (RHP) in 2015. In 2021, the group transitioned into the Ryderwood History Club. Volunteers have compiled an extensive digital collection that includes scans of many original photos, videos, documents, oral and written histories. Calendars and other publications have been published since 2017 with plans for a Centennial publication in 2023.

Proceeds from Calendar sales as well as generous donations have provided the Club with updated hardware and software. The latter allows the Club to connect and share with other historic preservation associations, including the Smithsonian.

Ryderwood's private collection is augmented with multiple resources including but not limited to:  Cowlitz Co. Historical Museum, Longview Public Library, University of Washington, Dept. of Archaeology and Historic Preservation,  WA State Historical Society, and Kansas City Museum. 

The digital collection includes scanned photographs, documents, oral and written histories and videos. This is an ongoing process and new information and artifacts are always welcome. Email or "snail mail" us at the addresses provided; OR Facebook users can join our private "You know you're from Ryderwood, WA if you remember..." group where information can be shared.

Beyond the Digital Collection

The Project houses a small collection in the SE corner of Community Hall - the old Barber Shop. It is currently open by appointment. Historic photos are hung in both the Community Hall Dining Room and the Café.​

The Project has hosted and organized various events that have shared Ryderwood's early history over the years. In addition to those below, Town Tour Hayrides are held on occasions when visitors are in town. See the 2019 Old-Timers Reunion video on the Memories page.​​