The Millbrae History Museum, located in the heart of Millbrae, California, serves as a vital repository of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Established in the early 1980s, the museum has become a cherished institution, preserving and showcasing the stories, artifacts, and memories that have shaped Millbrae and the surrounding San Francisco Peninsula region.
In This Article
Key Points
- The Millbrae History Museum was founded in the early 1980s to preserve and showcase Millbrae’s history
- The museum is housed in a historic 1895 building that was saved from demolition and meticulously restored
- The museum features exhibits on Millbrae’s early settlers, local industries, and the region’s transportation history
The Birth of a Local Treasure: Founding of the Millbrae History Museum
The Millbrae History Museum was born out of the passion and dedication of local historians and community members who recognized the importance of preserving the city’s past. In the early 1980s, when the historic 1895 house near the intersection of Broadway and Magnolia Avenue was slated for demolition, the Millbrae Historical Society stepped in to save the building.
Through fundraising efforts and community support, the Historical Society successfully relocated the house to a city-owned parcel across from the Millbrae Library. Volunteers and local businesses came together to meticulously restore the building to its original condition, transforming it into a suitable space to house the museum’s collections.
Collections and Exhibits: A Glimpse into Millbrae’s Past
The Millbrae History Museum’s permanent collections offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. The exhibits showcase a wide array of photographs, artifacts, period furniture, and historical documents that tell the story of Millbrae’s development and the lives of its early residents.
One of the museum’s most notable exhibits focuses on the Sanchez family, who were among the first settlers in the area. The exhibit explores the family’s role in shaping the region and their contributions to the community.
The museum also highlights the significance of the Mills family, particularly Darius Ogden Mills, the city’s namesake. Mills, a prominent businessman and banker, purchased the Sanchez property in 1860 and established the Millbrae Dairy, which played a crucial role in the area’s economic growth.
Educational Outreach and Community Engagement
The Millbrae History Museum is dedicated to engaging the community and promoting local history awareness through various educational programs and events. The museum offers guided tours for school groups and community organizations, providing an immersive learning experience.
Throughout the year, the museum hosts special events and lecture series that delve into specific aspects of Millbrae’s history and culture. These events often feature local historians, authors, and artists who share their knowledge and expertise with the public.
The Museum Experience: Visitor Information and Amenities
Visitors to the Millbrae History Museum can explore the exhibits at their own pace or join a guided tour led by knowledgeable docents. The museum is open to the public every Saturday from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm, and admission is free.
The museum is housed in a historic building, and efforts have been made to ensure accessibility for all visitors. The museum also features a small gift shop where visitors can purchase books, postcards, and other items related to Millbrae’s history.
Preserving the Legacy: Conservation and Archival Efforts
The Millbrae History Museum is committed to preserving the artifacts and documents in its care for future generations. The museum follows best practices in conservation and archival management to ensure the longevity of its collections.
Volunteers and community members play a vital role in supporting the museum’s conservation efforts. The museum welcomes donations of historical artifacts, photographs, and documents that help to enrich its collections and further its mission of preserving Millbrae’s heritage.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Developments
As the Millbrae History Museum continues to grow and evolve, it has exciting plans for the future. The Historical Society envisions building a 3,500 square foot display pavilion adjacent to the existing museum to showcase larger artifacts, such as a 19th-century surrey, a horse-drawn carriage, and a 1932 Millbrae Fire Truck.
The museum also aims to expand its educational programs and community outreach efforts, engaging younger generations and newcomers to Millbrae in exploring and appreciating the city’s rich history.
FAQ
What are the museum’s hours of operation?
The Millbrae History Museum is open to the public every Saturday from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm.
Are there any volunteer opportunities available at the museum?
Yes, the museum welcomes volunteers who are interested in supporting its mission. Volunteers can assist with docent duties, collections management, and special events.
How can someone donate artifacts or contribute to the museum’s collections?
Those interested in donating historical artifacts, photographs, or documents to the Millbrae History Museum can contact the museum staff at (650) 692-5786 for more information on the donation process.
Does the museum offer any resources for researchers or students?
The Millbrae History Museum maintains an archive of historical documents, photographs, and artifacts that may be of interest to researchers and students. Visitors can inquire with museum staff about accessing these resources for research purposes.
Are there any upcoming special events or exhibitions at the museum?
The museum regularly hosts special events and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Visitors can check the museum’s website or contact the staff for information on upcoming programs and events.
