WELCOME TO THE
TULARE HISTORICAL MUSEUM
Preserving the Heritage of the City of Tulare since 1985
A GLIMPSE INTO OUR HISTORY
When a group of Tulare residents with a passion for local history formed the Tulare City Historical Society in 1980, we have upheld our side of a solemn promise: to build a museum that would offer an unbeatable educational experience. We continue to tell the story of Tulare from its beginnings to each one of our visitors. From the start, our goal has been to preserve and showcase the City of Tulare's history and serve as a cultural center for the community.
MUSEUM EXHIBITIONS
We feature both permanent and temporary exhibitions and collections, as well as other special events all year long. We cordially invite you to come and learn from our world-class displays. Our primary purpose is to educate, and each new collection you experience is a new classroom full of beautiful possibilities. We hope you’ll stop by soon.
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MUSEUM
The museum's beautifully crafted exhibits showcase Tulare's unique history, beginning with the Yokuts Indians, the area's first inhabitants. See examples of fully furnished rooms from Tulare's pioneer families, and meet Tulare's heroes, including Olympic champion Bob Mathias and military leader Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt, Jr.
HERITAGE ART GALLERY
The Heritage Art Gallery showcases artwork by talented local artists and is also available to rent for events and special occasions.
ROTATING EXHIBITS
There’s always something new to learn from our permanent and temporary exhibitions. Our team of curators and creative minds are working around the clock to ensure that our visitors always find something new to discover at our History Museum and Art Gallery. Take a look at our current rotating exhibitions.
MANUEL TOLEDO MILITARY COLLECTION
The Manuel Toledo Collection showcases hundreds of military memorabilia collected by this decorated World War II hero. Ranging from the Revolutionary War to the War with Afghanistan, this collection features various branches of the military and significant military events.
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EDUCATION AT THE MUSEUM
What We Offer
Explore all the fantastic elements we have to offer through our Tours for Schools. We take education very seriously, which is why we are continuously conducting research and adding new resources to our list. We want to be the go-to resource for our visitors and their research and educational needs on the topics we cover at Tulare Historical Museum.
GUIDED TOURS
Learn Something New!
Tour our entire collection with our exceptional audio tour included with your admission, or take a personal guided tour with one of our staff members or docents. In addition, we actively participate in the ongoing education of our guests through our educational services and resource education.
TOM HENNION ARCHIVES ROOM
Research Family or Tulare History!
Our Tom Hennion Archives Room is available to the public for research. Are you interested in learning more about your deep family roots or a specific Tulare event? Our Archives Room has all of the necessary documents available for your research needs.
Exclusive Merchandise
STOP BY THE GIFT SHOP
Take those cherished memories from the museum home with you. We have an impressive collection of collectors’ items, memorabilia, books, and so much more. Our shop is the perfect place for you to find a gift for a loved one or a souvenir to remind you of your visit.
We get new items in our store all the time. See what we have waiting for you.
BOOKS
We have various books, both old and new, that cover the history of Tulare and the Central Valley ranging in topics such as sports, military, and influential figures such as Bob Mathias, Admiral Zumwalt, and Wilma McDaniel. Explore our collection and get your piece of Tulare history today.
BECOME A MUSEUM MEMBER
Take advantage of all of the fantastic exclusive events and special rates. Proceeds go towards supporting our History Museum, and membership includes exclusive benefits to be enjoyed throughout the year. Discounts and free tickets to specific events are just some of the benefits available.
MUSEUM HOURS
Mon - Wed: Closed
Thurs - Sat: 10am - 4pm
Sun: Currently closed;
Open every 3rd Sunday, Sept. - May 12:30pm to 4pm
ADMISSION PRICES
Members with Card - FREE
Adults - $6
Seniors (55+)/AAA - $4
Students - $3
Children under 5 - FREE
Admission to Heritage Art Gallery - FREE
HOW YOU CAN DONATE
Support Us Now
Help Tulare Historical Museum continue to provide its outstanding services to the public. You would be contributing towards the continuing education of all people who walk through our doors. If you had a good experience in the past, or if you were lucky enough to visit us at one of our exhibitions, know that all this wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our supporters.
