The San Mateo County History Museum, housed in a historic 1910 courthouse, preserves and showcases the rich cultural and natural history of San Mateo County. This iconic building, featuring Italian Renaissance Revival architecture and the largest stained-glass dome on the West Coast, serves as a beacon of education and community engagement in downtown Redwood City.
In This Article
Key Points
- The museum is housed in a former courthouse built in 1910, showcasing Italian Renaissance Revival style architecture with the largest stained-glass dome on the west coast3.
- Offers interactive experiences and exhibits that cover the history of the Peninsula from the Ohlone Indians to the Victorian era3.
- Operated by the San Mateo County Historical Association, it serves as a hub for historic preservation and education in the county.
Exploring the Exhibits
The San Mateo County History Museum offers a diverse array of permanent and temporary exhibitions that bring the region’s past to life. Permanent exhibits include:
- Nature’s Bounty: Explores how early Peninsula inhabitants utilized natural resources in their daily lives.
- Journey to Work: Pioneering Patterns of Growth: Tells the story of how transportation transformed San Mateo County from frontier to suburb.
- Living the California Dream: Traces the evolution of suburban life using an engaging “object theater”3.
- Land of Opportunity: The Immigrant Experience in San Mateo County: Highlights the stories of immigrants, their challenges, and cultural traditions.
- Maverick’s: Features the history of the San Mateo County coast, the science behind the famous Maverick’s waves, and a thrilling “waverider” surfing simulator.
The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions that offer fresh perspectives on local history, such as “Our Story,” “Experience the West: Sunset Cover Art,” and “Fight the Bite.
Educational Programs and Community Engagement
The San Mateo County History Museum is dedicated to educating and engaging the community through a wide range of programs. In 2016, the museum conducted school programs for nearly 20,000 children at its three locations. It also offers special educational programs for adults and children on a monthly basis, enriching the community’s understanding of local history.
As a clearinghouse for matters of historic preservation throughout San Mateo County, the museum plays a vital role in protecting and promoting the region’s heritage.
Visitor Information
The San Mateo County History Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the last admission at 3:45 p.m.. Admission fees are as follows:
- Adults: $6
- Seniors & Students: $4
- Children 5 and under: Free
- Members: Free
The museum is easily accessible by public transit, located within walking distance of the Redwood City Caltrain station. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions, accommodations, and dining options in the vibrant downtown Redwood City area.
The Architectural Marvel of the Courthouse
The 1910 courthouse building that houses the San Mateo County History Museum is a product of the City Beautiful Movement (1893-1920). The Italian Renaissance Revival style structure underwent extensive restoration and renovation efforts between 1998 and 2006, transforming it into the museum’s current home.
The building’s most striking feature is its stained-glass dome, the largest of its kind in a public building on the West Coast. This architectural marvel serves as a testament to the museum’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the region’s history and heritage.
San Mateo County Historical Association
Founded in 1935, the San Mateo County Historical Association (SMCHA) has been instrumental in establishing and operating the San Mateo County History Museum. In addition to the museum, the SMCHA also manages other historical sites, such as the Woodside Store and Sanchez Adobe.
The association’s mission extends beyond its museums, as it publishes a scholarly journal called La Peninsula and contributes significantly to historical scholarship in the region.
What are the museum’s operating hours and admission fees?
The San Mateo County History Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the last admission at 3:45 p.m. Admission fees are $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and students, and free for children 5 and under and members.
FAQ
Can you tell me more about the permanent exhibits at the museum?
The museum’s permanent exhibits cover various aspects of San Mateo County’s history, from the Ohlone Indians to the Victorian era. Exhibits include “Nature’s Bounty,” “Journey to Work: Pioneering Patterns of Growth,” “Living the California Dream,” “Land of Opportunity: The Immigrant Experience in San Mateo County,” and “Maverick’s”.
What educational programs does the museum offer?
The museum offers a variety of educational programs for both children and adults. In 2016, it conducted school programs for nearly 20,000 children at its three locations. It also organizes special educational programs for adults and children on a monthly basis.
How can I get to the museum using public transportation?
The San Mateo County History Museum is conveniently located within walking distance of the Redwood City Caltrain station, making it easily accessible by public transit.
Are there any special discounts available for museum admission?
The museum offers discounted admission rates for seniors and students at $4 per person. Children 5 and under, as well as museum members, can enjoy free admission.
