View of the exterior of the three-story Colonial Revival style house on a sunny day with the waterway in the background.
Chairs and a table on the wrap around porch over-looking the waterway. Toy blocks for kids as well as chess and checkers are staged on the table for visitors to play and relax.
In the parlor of the COQ are many artifacts such as a gramophone, oil lamp, stereoscope and associated images, and a table with calling cards. Ornate hardwood chairs and a red velvet couch provide seating. A mannequin is on display wearing a pink silk dress and feathered hat.
"Kids" and "All Ages" scavenger hunts with dry erase markers on the front desk.
The dining room is staged with Fine China and crystalware. There is a fireplace on the far side of the room and a warming tray on top of a radiator in the background.

Commanding Officer's Quarters Museum

1 Pershing Ave, Port Townsend, WA 98368

Overview

Step back in time as you enter the Commanding Officer's Quarters (COQ) Museum and get a glimpse into the life of an officer and their family during the early 1900s.

Map & visitor guide

48.132477729293, -122.76365248651

Additional information

This three-story house museum at Fort Worden State Park is set up to show what life was like for officers, their families, and household staff between 1904 and 1953. Stories from real people, along with historic photos and objects, help bring the past to life.

Almost every room in the house is open to explore, except for a few closets and the basement, which are used for storage. The museum is self-guided, with displays and stories throughout the house.

There are also fun, hands-on activities, including scavenger hunts for all ages, coloring pages, a selfie station, and a desk with binoculars and a commander’s log where visitors can sit, reflect, and share their thoughts. Visitors can also relax on the wraparound porch while watching ships sail by, keep toddlers engaged with wooden blocks, or enjoy a friendly game of chess or checkers.

Note: There are no public restrooms in the COQ Museum. Public restrooms can be found at The Commons (behind the Park Office) or along the beach day-use area.

Hours of operation

  April - Oct. Nov. - March
Days Open Fri.- Tues. Saturdays
Open Hours 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Navigation and parking

When entering the park, take a right just before the tennis courts onto Pershing Ave. The COQ Museum is the last house on the right.

Parking is available on the far side (East side) of the house and parade grounds or behind the house. Discover Passes are required to park.

Accessibility

Because this is a historic home, it is not wheelchair accessible. There are several steps leading to the front entrance and stairs to reach the upper floors inside. We are working to find ways to improve accessibility while still protecting the building’s historic character.

Other Interpretive Opportunities

Public Events

Interested in learning more about the park's history, wildlife, and natural resources? Seasonally, Fort Worden offers a variety of ranger-led events such as pop-up exhibits, Jr. Ranger programs, and more.

Visit the museum for more information or keep an eye on the Events Calendar for the dates and times of FREE park events. Don't forget to stop by the Park Office to grab a Junior Ranger packet for kids four years of age and older. 

Group Programs

Are you planning a visit to Fort Flagler State Park with your family, scout group, club, or co-workers? Add a fun, interactive, and educational experience to your trip by filling out the Group Program Request Form. (Note: programs must be requested at least two weeks in advance of your visit to the park.) View program descriptions to learn more about the types of programs offered.

History

Learn more about Fort Worden's history.