In the heart of downtown Redwood City, California, stands a grand testament to the rich and diverse history of San Mateo County—the San Mateo County History Museum. Housed in the former courthouse, this architectural marvel, built in 1910, is a beacon of the City Beautiful Movement and boasts the largest stained-glass dome on the West Coast. Operated by the San Mateo County Historical Association (SMCHA), the museum offers a captivating journey through time, showcasing the county's evolution and the stories of its people.
The San Mateo County History Museum's home is a historic courthouse that has witnessed over a century of local history. Opened to the public as a museum in 1999, this building underwent extensive restoration and renovation, transforming it into a 40,000 square-foot treasure trove of exhibits and artifacts. The courthouse itself is a masterpiece, with its imposing neoclassical architecture and the breathtaking stained-glass dome that illuminates the rotunda with a kaleidoscope of colors.
The museum's permanent exhibitions are a testament to the dynamic history of San Mateo County. Nature's Bounty explores how the early inhabitants utilized the region's natural resources for survival and development, highlighting the transformation of these resources into the bustling metropolis of San Francisco. Journey to Work: Pioneering Patterns of Growth delves into the pivotal role of transportation in shaping the county from a frontier settlement to a modern suburb.
For those fascinated by the quintessential California lifestyle, Living the California Dream offers an immersive experience, tracing the evolution of suburban life through a blend of artifacts, lighting effects, and video projections. Land of Opportunity: The Immigrant Experience in San Mateo County chronicles the diverse stories of immigrants, their challenges, and their contributions to the county's cultural tapestry.
Surfing enthusiasts will be thrilled by Maverick's, an exhibition dedicated to the history of the county's coastline and the science behind the legendary 40-foot Maverick's wave. This exhibit features surfing videos and a wave rider simulator, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of riding the waves. Lastly, San Mateo County History Makers: Entrepreneurs Who Changed the World celebrates the innovative minds and businesses that have left an indelible mark on the world.
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The museum's temporary exhibitions ensure that there is always something new to discover. Past exhibitions have included Our Story, which highlighted the transformation of the courthouse over 160 years and celebrated the museum's 20 years in Redwood City. Other notable exhibitions have showcased the history of Sunset magazine covers, the century-long battle against mosquitoes in the Bay Area, and rare baseball memorabilia from San Mateo County.
One particularly fascinating exhibition was Charles Parsons' Ships of the World, featuring 24 meticulously hand-crafted model ships and exploring the maritime history of the county. Another memorable exhibit was Grizzlies: The California King, which delved into the history of grizzly bears in the region.
The San Mateo County Historical Association is dedicated to education and community engagement. In 2016 alone, the museum's programs reached nearly 20,000 schoolchildren, offering hands-on learning experiences at the museum, the Woodside Store, and the Sánchez Adobe Park. The museum also hosts monthly educational programs for adults and children, ensuring that learning about history is both fun and accessible.
The museum's research library provides public access to an extensive archive of over 420,000 items, making it a valuable resource for historians, researchers, and anyone interested in the county's past. The SMCHA also publishes La Peninsula, a journal that delves into various aspects of the region's history and acts as a clearinghouse for historic preservation efforts throughout San Mateo County.
In addition to the San Mateo County History Museum, the SMCHA manages two other historic sites: the Woodside Store and the Sánchez Adobe. The Woodside Store, built in 1854, served as a vital general store in the heart of the Peninsula's lumbering district. Today, it offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the daily life and commerce of the mid-19th century.
The Sánchez Adobe, located on a site of significant historical importance, tells the story of the region from Native California times through the Spanish colonial period and into Mexican rule. This adobe house, built by Francisco Sánchez in 1846, stands as a testament to the area's rich agricultural history. The site has undergone extensive archaeological investigations, revealing layers of history that continue to captivate visitors.
In conclusion, the San Mateo County History Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a vibrant center of learning and exploration that brings the past to life. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or a curious traveler, a visit to this museum promises an enriching and unforgettable experience. So, step into the past and discover the stories that have shaped San Mateo County into the dynamic community it is today.
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