CAMAS, WA — The Camas-Washougal Historical Society invites the community to an engaging and informative program, “Camas Historic Homes and First Owners,” featuring the extensive research of Madeline Mesplay, a dedicated volunteer at the Two Rivers Heritage Museum.
This free event will be held on Saturday, May 3, from 2 to 4 pm at the Camas Church of the Nazarene Community Center (2204 NE Birch Street, Camas).
Over the past two and a half years, Mesplay has uncovered rich historical details about nearly 400 Camas homes built between 1900 and 1939—including their first owners and, in many cases, their original builders. Her work has included walking neighborhood surveys, capturing original photographs, using Clark County GIS data, and conducting extensive research at the Washington State Archives in Olympia.
“My presentation will mostly follow a chronological timeline,” said Mesplay. “It’s fascinating to see the town’s development over the decades—some years saw a surge in construction, while others were quieter, even before the Great Depression. During the Depression, homes tended to be smaller and more modest.”
One area of focus for Mesplay is identifying homes built by prolific local builder John Roffler, who is credited with many of Camas’ most iconic structures. His first known project was the stately Leadbetter House on Lacamas Lake.
In addition to architectural and historical insights, the presentation will include personal stories of the early residents—some who lived quietly and others who made lasting contributions to the Camas community. Mesplay also discovered intriguing connections between the local housing market and the influence of the paper mill during that era.
Mesplay’s research background is extensive. She previously documented Washougal properties in a collection that spans five 3-inch binders. Each record includes a photo, address, plat description, and information about the first property owner, genealogical notes, and—when available—the builder.
“I first learned land research in Oklahoma, working with tribal allotment records,” she said. “Later, I volunteered at the Clark County Historical Museum, where I was trained in urban land research by Brad Richardson.”
To schedule an appointment to view this research or explore the TRHM’s extensive archives on local families and properties, call 360-835-8742 or use the contact form at www.2rhm.com.
The Two Rivers Heritage Museum is open to the public Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. through October. Group tours for eight or more can be arranged by calling the museum. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for students, and free for children under 5 and CWHS members.
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