Welcome to the Southern Tuolumne County Historical Society

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The tree in the Museum lobby is how hung with sparkling lights and decorations. We welcome everyone to come and enjoy the festive sights and sounds of the season. And learn some of our history too! Fri - Sun, 10 - 2.

And, from now to the end of the holidays, locals and visitors can do their holiday shopping at the Groveland Museum Gift Shop. There's something for everyone on your list. A special "only in the Museum" gift is our local history and vintage picture book - personally autographed by the authors. We also have many other books for readers of all ages - natural history and local color for adults, and fun books for the kids. If you need something for your tree, we have that too. And, of course, as the leading "gateway to Yosemite," we have souvenirs of the Park for your permanent collection or a special memory for any visitors or guests. Come one and all and enjoy the best in holiday offerings!

Recently, with the inspiration of a generous donation of a beautiful stained glass image, we have upgraded our presentation of the important part of our heritage that is the Hetch Hetchy (HH) project of the early 1900s. Groveland was the headquarters of the entire HH dam-building project with numerous HH facilities in the town, such as the workers' hospital and dormitories.

Of special note is the 68-mile-long railroad that transported men and supplies from the Central Valley through the center of Groveland to the dam site east of Groveland. The beautiful stained glass captures the iconic steam engine of the Hetch Hetchy Railroad as it puffs its way to its destination. Now, thanks to the initiative of Board members Dave Roberts and Kathy Brown, its route has now been printed in one continuous map that follows all its twists and turns. Our sincere thanks to them for their energy and vision in realizing this new map.  

Interesting artifacts were pulled from the Musuem's collections - such as employee paychecks and a railroad mile marker - to really bring the railroad to life. Additional improvements include more photos and captions that complement the map showing key historical elements along the route. Altogether, the exhibit provides an exceptional glimpse into Groveland's past. Come to the Museum soon to learn and enjoy!

The Museum has recently added a series of "QR codes" to enhance its visitor experience. The codes are increasingly visible in every walk of life, from restaurant menus to information brochures. And they can be used to provide additional opportunities for visitors to learn about the Museum and local history.

With the participation of STCHS volunteers Lindsey Lorant, Kathy Brown, and Scott Belser (pictured), we have just launched a program to provide codes and information links throughout the Museum. Visitors can quickly access information from the Internet on a wide range of topics. The first application is right on the front door for visitors who want more Information about the Museum - for example, if they arrive when it is closed. Other QR codes are being planned inside the building to offer interested visitors additional information on exhibits and historical subjects (such as the Me-Wuk heritage or Gold Rush history).

Special thanks to volunteer Lindsey who has spearheaded the effort.