Museum open 10 - 2 Fri, Sat, and Sun. Masks required for unvaccinated.
Southern Tuolumne County Historical Society
Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum
Welcome to the Southern Tuolumne County Historical Society
The Southern Tuolumne County Historical Society (STCHS) is a volunteer community organization dedicated to the preservation and celebration of the colorful history of the area “south of the Tuolumne River.” Groveland and Big Oak Flat were 1850s Gold Rush towns which later thrived as a gateway to Yosemite National Park. The centerpiece of STCHS is the Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum in Groveland welcoming visitors from all over the world, and all year long. STCHS also advances its goals by building preservation projects, community education, and the History Resource Center.
GOOD TIMES AT THE HOLIDAY BARBECUE
Good Food and Friends
Let's See Who Can Eat the Most!
Let's See Who Can Eat the Most!
On Sunday, September 5, 2021, STCHS held its annual Labor Day Barbecue at the Pine Mountain Lake Equestrian Center. As expected, the "main event" was just sitting with friends and enjoying the warm afternoon with good food.
Let's See Who Can Eat the Most!
Let's See Who Can Eat the Most!
Let's See Who Can Eat the Most!
A highlight for kids (and their parents) was the chance for the kids to eat large quantities of fresh local watermelon. Rumor had it that some kids ate so much they couldn't eat any ice cream after their burgers!
Good Music for Dancing
Good Music for Dancing
Good Music for Dancing
The music was provided by the well-known Bay Area entertainer, Groovy Judy, with tunes from the 60s (1960s!) to now. Some attendees couldn't resist the chance to show their skills on the dance floor.
Learn Something Too!
Good Music for Dancing
Good Music for Dancing
Six panels of vintage photos of Big Oak Flat and Groveland let visitors learn about southern Tuolumne County - and STCHS itself. Plus a chance to talk with STCHS' own Kathy Brown (seated, hiding behind the poster) for any additional information.
Help the Museum Show our Mining Heritage
The Museum would like to add an exhibit on the long mining history of southern Tuolumne County. In addition to vintage photos and personal stories, we want to include physical artifacts that can help brng our mining heritage to life.
We are asking our supporters and friends to help locate genuine artifacts that can be part of our exhibit. Maybe an item that has been hiding in the basement. Maybe that mystery gizmo that Grandfather left in that box in the attic. Miners' pans, cooking utensils, a tobacco pouch - almost anything that can convey what it was like during the Gold Rush. But not too big - it has to fit in a display case!
Not long ago a visitor to the Museum brought by the artifact shown in the photo. While we're still investigating it, it may be a miner's lamp. It is an example of the kind of item that would make our mining history all the more real.
Please bring to the Museum anything you think might be a valuable addition to the exhibit. Our team will assess what it is and how it can be part of the display, either as a donation or a loan. We'll handle any paperwork to give your family appropriate recognition for your generosity.
NOW Open - Visitors Welcome!
STCHS is welcoming visitors to the Museum to view local history in person. We follow the latest state and local Covid recommendations. Masks required for the unvaccinated.
Open hours are 10 to 2 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. If necessary, please call us to open by special appointment.
Have Fun while Meeting People
Become a Docent
As the Museum re-opens, it is looking to add volunteers to greet and welcome visitors to the Museum. It's a wonderful opportunity to meet people from all over the country and the world. Docents serve at their own schedule with no obligation other than to enjoy themselves. Sign up on the "Docent" page of the website.
NEW MUSEUM EXHIBIT ON NATIVE AMERICANS
The Me-Wuk - The First People
The Me-Wuk - The First People
The Me-Wuk - The First People
Thanks to the years-long dedication of the Board Displays Committee (under the leadership of Kathy Brown), the Museum has just opened a new exhibit on the indigenous Me-Wuk, the First People to live in southern Tuolumne County. It's sure to offer visitors a great chance to learn about their lives and culture.
Me-Wuk Basketry
The Me-Wuk - The First People
The Me-Wuk - The First People
The exhibit offers a series of artifacts and historical photos that chronicle the way of life of the Me-Wuk people who lived in Groveland and Big Oak Flat before the Gold Rush. Of special interest is the basketry which was a prominent part of Me-Wuk culture.
Re-Opening Sale: Groveland Big Oak Flat History Book
STCHS's new book, Groveland Big Oak Flat, is on sale for 2021. For only $3 shipping, you can send the best of local history straight to yourself or someone you know. With 200+ vintage photos, it's the perfect glimpse into our area's colorful history. Buy online, or send your order form by e-mail.