Housed in a former railway depot dating to 1909, exhibits in the museum depict the history of the Umatilla region.
Displays include a section devoted to the area's sheep raising and woolen mills, along with an old railroad telegraph system.
In the spacious high-ceiling exhibit area visitors can view artifacts commemorating the Oregon Trail which passed through the county; a collection of beautiful, intricate Native Americans beadwork. (Tribes represented are: Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Nez Perce); displays devoted to the development of local agriculture and the well-known Pendleton Woolen Mills; an authentic 10-foot long marble shoeshine stand; an original railroad telegraph system; and new exhibits introduced throughout the year.
Visitors can also experience a one-room setting in the restored and fully furnished Byrd School sited on the grounds.