Museum open 10 - 2 Fri, Sat, and Sun. Or contact us for appointment and tour.
Southern Tuolumne County Historical Society
Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum
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.
Groveland's favorite early summer event is the annual STCHS Wine Tasting Cruise on Pine Mountain Lake. With wine and snacks, warm sunshine, and a relaxing ride on the Lake - what's not to like?
Tickets are still available but going fast. Get yours by stopping by the Museum or sending in the order form. See you there!
On Friday, May 2, STCHS presented its fifth community talk in its popular speakers program: Dr. Jeff Tolhurst (recently retired from Columbia College), speaking before a crowd of 70+ at the Resilience Center. Jeff had spoken on local gold geology 8 years before and was a big hit. This year, using a combination of scientific graphics and an up-to-date geology Internet app, Jeff took the audience on a "Geo Tour" of the major sights (and sites) between Oakdale and Yosemite, including Table Mountain and the Red Hills. Despite ourselves, we all learned a lot! Thanks to Jeff for a fascinating presentation.
On April 9 STCHS hosted a visit by students from Groveland's Tenaya Elementary School. Roughly 100 kids from grades T - K, 2, 3, and 6 - accompanied by teachers and parents - were welcomed to the Museum by our Kathy Brown (in period dress). Brief sessions were provided in both the Museum and Library. Afterward they visited the Book Nook and offered a free book to take home. It was another example of STCHS's efforts at community education and outreach.
On Monday, Feb. 24, STCHS held its annual "Volunteer Appreciation Day" to recognize and honor all the wonderful STCHS volunteers who give their time and energy to STCHS and its community mission. From the many dedicated docents who welcome visitors to the Museum to those who help out at the annual Wine Cruise or Family BBQ or those who attend and promote STCHS's outreach programs. Spearheaded by Board members Kathy Brown and Lindsey Lorant, the event took place at the Museum with snacks upstairs, then a delightful lunch of 5 different soups (and 3 sinful but delicious cakes!)
Many sincere thanks to all who do so much for STCHS!
At the Museum we're normally open Friday to Sunday, 10 to 2 p.m. We're often open for visitors during special holidays such as year end, school breaks, and the like. In addition, if you'd like to visit our Museum when we're not usually open, just call or e-mail us to request a special opening just for you. We'll get back to you as soon as we can to schedule a convenient time.
Museum phone - 209 962 0300. President Harriet Codeglia - 415 516 1852. E-mail - gygmstchs@gmail.com
The Museum is always 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.
STCHS's local history book, Groveland Big Oak Flat, is on sale in the Museum or online. For only $5 shipping, you can send the best of Tuolumne history 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.