Founded in 1979 in Friday Harbor, Washington, The Whale Museum is devoted to understanding whales in the wild, especially within the Salish Sea ecosystem. Its exhibits feature life-sized models, skeletons, and information on endangered Southern Resident killer whales, other marine mammals, and Northwest Native American culture connected to marine life. Its importance also rests on long-running research and stewardship programs, including whale sighting records dating to 1976, stranded marine mammal investigations, underwater listening, and boater education. Through efforts such as the Orca Adoption Program, classes, and regional whale investigations, it serves as both a museum and an active center for public understanding, research, and conservation.