In 1981, the Washington State Historical Society began a State Hall of Honor "to recognize 100 citizens who have made outstanding contributions during Washington's first 100 years of statehood." These citzen's portraits were to hang in the Tacoma Art Museum for the states' centennial celebration on November 11, 1989.
Edward Curtis was voted to join the ranks of these 100 special people in the second year of nominations. Edmond Meany, Curtis' top consultant through the production of The North American Indian, was also inducted that year for his work at the University of Washington and founding the Washington Mountaineers.