Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe members and Sequim residents filled the Museum and Arts Center, 175 W. Cedar St., Sequim, on May 25 for the grand opening and ceremonial blessing of the new longhouse exhibit.

The exhibit, six years in the works, is a replica longhouse authentic to buildings constructed by Jamestown tribal members' ancestors.

Tribal elder Elaine Grinnell said the front of the longhouse is very authentic.

"I'm thrilled at how much they've put into it," she said.

"It's a wonderful beginning and a real testimony to the interest."

Items inside and out of the longhouse, such as a headdress, paddle, tools and artwork are borrowed from the Northwest Native Expressions Art Gallery and Heron Hall in Blyn.

Vickie Carroll, cultural coordinator for the tribe and longhouse exhibit committee member, said the display items would remain for six months before being switched out.

She hopes to include more basketry and tools that tribal people used and to incorporate art contests.

Carroll said the exhibit turned out really well.

Longhouses were once across the Olympic Peninsula and measured 40- to 100-feet long and 20-feet wide.

The Museum and Arts Center and longhouse exhibit are open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free.

Call 683-8110 or visit www.macsequim.org and www.jamestowntribe.org for more information.