The Watts family first came to Scappoose along the Oregon Trail in 1852. In 1902, James Grant Watts built his family the Victorian Scapooose home that still stands today. The house remained in the family until 1969 when James Loring Watts sold it to the City of Scappoose under the condition that it would become a museum. After being used as a teacher boarding and the Scappoose City Hall, the house finally became a museum in 1997. The Watts House has been on the National Historic Register since 1976.

Today, the basement houses the Children’s Museum. The museum gives children the experience of being in an 1888 merchandise store, with an authentic cash register, canned goods, and money order stand. The main floor has been restored to the Victorian style, complete with era-specific furniture. Both the interior and exterior are decorated for themed seasonal events, including annual Springtime Teas in May, the Fall Harvest Luncheon in August, the Old Fashioned Christmas Party, and Christmas visits with Santa. Check the events page to see other weekly family fun events.