CITY OF RENTON WASHINGTON

Renton History Museum's collection holds almost 20,000 photographs! We've taken a few and turned them into coloring postcards. Enjoy some creative time and learn a bit about your town's history. (Recommended Pre-K through 5)

Coloring postcards

“Here for the Duration: Part 1” gives an overview of the development of Renton’s Highlands neighborhood during World War II, when thousands of war workers moved to Renton from across the nation to work at Boeing and the Pacific Car and Foundry.  The result was a rapid increase in population and the need for housing. 

This activity is designed for readers in 7^th grade and above. Questions can be used for discussion or as writing prompts.

"Here for the Duration: Part 1" study guide questions
"Here for the Duration: Part 1" article

“Can I Play Too?” is an article about the history of youth athletics in Renton. It focuses specifically on what barriers and opportunities existed for both girls and Black players from 1909 through the 1960s, and highlights the careers of several of Renton’s most accomplished Black and female athletes.

This activity is designed for readers in 7th grade and above. Questions can be used for discussion or as writing prompts. 

"Can I Play Too?" study guide questions
"Can I Play Too?" article

“Renton’s Hilltop Community” tells the story of the Renton Hilltop, a historically Black community in the Renton Highlands.  The article discusses the neighborhood’s ties to mining, agriculture, and war industries while highlighting community culture and the lives and livelihoods of well-known Hilltop residents.

The corresponding Hilltop Community mapping activity invites students to compare and contrast historic and modern maps of the area that show the development of the neighborhood over time. It also includes biographical data about Hilltop residents who came to Renton during the Great Migration.

Activity Sheets:
"Renton's Hilltop Community" study guide
"Renton's Hilltop Community" article
Hilltop Community Mapping Activity

Maps:
Renton 1936 Metsker Map
Renton 1956 U.S. Geological Survey Map