The Petaluma Historical Library & Museum in Petaluma, California, is a unique resource dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the town and its surrounding region. Located in the heart of downtown Petaluma, the Petaluma Historical Library & Museum is a living link to the past and a great place to spend an afternoon. Learn more here.
Founded in 1940 by the Petaluma Historical Society, the library and museum hold over 80,000 volumes of books and documents, one of the largest collections in Northern California. It collects, preserves, and provides access to textbooks, newspaper articles, manuscripts, photographs, and other artifacts that tell the rich and interesting history of the Petaluma area. The library and museum are also home to an impressive collection of artwork, including paintings, pottery, sculpture, and historic artifacts. The collection includes works from local and regional artists such as Joseph D. Taylor and Mary Anna Goodvin, as well as pieces from well-known national and international artists. Currently, the collection is featured in the permanent exhibition, “The Arts of Petaluma: Origins and Traditions.” Another popular feature of the Petaluma Historical Library & Museum is the Petaluma Heritage Trail, an interactive walking tour of the city’s historic sites and buildings. The free tour includes stops at the McHugh-Jensen House, the Copperfield’s Books building, and the Petaluma Riverwalk. Along the way, visitors will learn about Petaluma’s past, discover its heritage and culture, and take in the beauty of downtown. Learn more about Petaluma Wildlife Museum in Petaluma, CA.
