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Historical Societies

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Historical Societies, History Museums & Related Organizations: San Diego & Imperial Counties & Tijuana, Mexico

San Diego County

Imperial County and Baja California

Alpine Historical Society
John DeWitt Historic Museum and Library, 2116 Tavern Rd, Alpine, CA 91903
Mailing address: P.O. Box 382, Alpine, CA 91903-0382
(619) 659-8740
www.alpinehistory.org
[email protected]
Located in the mountain community of Alpine, approximately twenty miles east of San Diego, the Alpine Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the history of the Alpine area.

Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum
2040 N Santa Fe Avenue, Vista, CA 92083
(760) 941-1791
agsem.com
The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum collects, preserves and displays examples of mechanical ingenuity and crafts associated with the early days of the American farm and rural community. The Museum offers educational and recreational opportunities to the public through exhibits, demonstrations, activities and programs displaying the art of invention fulfilling necessity.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center
200 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
(760) 767-5311
www.theabf.org or http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center exhibits on the cultural history of the region, focusing on Native American occupation and Early American settlement.

Balboa Park
www.balboapark.org
Balboa Park is a National Historic Landmark District and the nation’s largest urban cultural park, with over a dozen museums, multiple performing arts venues, historic architecture and gardens. Walking tours are offered through the Balboa Park Visitors Center and the San Diego History Center.

Barona Cultural Center and Museum
1095 Barona Road, Lakeside, CA 92040
(619) 443-7003, X 219
www.baronamuseum.org
[email protected]
San Diego County’s first museum on an Indian reservation dedicated to the perpetuation and presentation of the local Kumeyaay-Diegueño Native culture.

Bonita Museum & Cultural Center
Bonita Historical Society, 4355 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902
(619) 267-5141
www.bonitahistoricalsociety.org
[email protected]
The Bonita Historical Society is dedicated to preserving, for public education and enjoyment, the culture, history, arts, crafts, and aesthetic facets of the region, specifically El Rancho de la Nacion in South San Diego County.

Cabrillo National Monument
1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, San Diego, CA 92106
Mailing address: P.O. Box 6670, San Diego, CA 92106
Park HQ: (619) 557-5450
Visitor information: (619) 224-4140
www.nps.gov/cabr/index.htm
There are magnificent views from this spot at the end of Catalina Blvd on Point Loma; Ranger-conducted activities on gray whales, Old Point Loma Lighthouse, local military history, tide pools, slide shows and movies.

California Missions Foundation
26555 Carmel Rancho Blvd #7, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
(805) 963-1633
www.californiamissionsfoundation.org
[email protected]
The California Missions Foundation is dedicated to preserving the historical California Missions and their associated historical and cultural resources for the public benefit.

California Surf Museum
312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054
(760) 721-6876
www.surfmuseum.org
The California Surf Museum serves as an international repository and resource center on the lifestyle sport of surfing through capturing, preserving, and chronicling its art, culture and heritage for the education and enjoyment of future generations.

California State Historical Landmarks in San Diego County
Properties of historical importance in California are currently designated as significant resources in three state registration programs: State Historical Landmarks, Points of Historical Interest, and the California Register of Historic Places. This is a list of the State Historical Landmarks for San Diego County.

Camp Callan Research Project
Mailing address: P.O. Box 33672, San Diego, CA 92163-3672
(858) 748-0569
Dedicated to preservation of the history of the WWII Army camp where the Torrey Pines Golf Course stands today.

Camp Pendleton Historical Society
Mailing address: P.O. Box 5497, Oceanside, CA 92052
camppendletonhistoricalsociety.org
[email protected]
The Camp Pendleton Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich and colorful history of the land that is now Camp Pendleton including prehistoric times, native American culture, the Spanish mission era, the rancho story, and finally, the United States Marine Corps ownership since 1942.

Carlsbad Historical Society
Smith-Shipley-Magee House, 258 Beech Street, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Mailing address: P.O. Box 252, Carlsbad, CA 92018-0252
(760) 434-9189
www.carlsbadhistoricalsociety.com
[email protected]
The Carlsbad Historical Society was established in 1975 to preserve, promote, and enhance knowledge of the surrounding area’s history, significant landmarks, institutions and memorabilia.

Chula Vista Genealogical Society
Mailing address: P.O. Box 3024, Chula Vista, CA 91909
(844) 268-2847
www.cvgenealogy.org
The purpose of the Chula Vista Genealogical Society is to promote general interest in the related fields of genealogy, history, and heraldry by individual and group effort. This Society draws members from the city of Chula Vista and surrounding communities of southern San Diego County.

Chula Vista Heritage Museum
360 3rd Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 427-8092
www.thefcvl.org/museum-news.html
The Chula Vista Heritage Museum is a branch of the Chula Vista Public Library and is supported by the Friends of the Heritage Museum, a chapter of the Friends of the Chula Vista Library. Its mission is to preserve and promote Chula Vista’s history through photographs, artifacts and educational activities.

Committee of One Hundred
1649 El Prado, Suite 2, San Diego, CA 92101
www.c100.org
[email protected]
Dedicated to the preservation of Spanish Colonial Architecture in Balboa Park.

Congress of History of San Diego and Imperial Counties
Mailing address: P.O. Box 1346, Lemon Grove, CA 91946
(619) 444-3391
www.congressofhistory.wordpress.com
The Congress of History of San Diego & Imperial Counties provides unity and coordinates the educational efforts of member organizations interested in promoting a greater awareness of the history of San Diego and Imperial Counties and outlying regions among its members and the general public.

Cooley Museum “Frank the Train Man”
4233 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 295-1611
Rare antique automobiles, toys, standard gauge trains, cameras, phonographs and more are all on display in the privately operated museum of Jim A. Cooley.

Coronado Historical Association
1100 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
(619) 435-7242
coronadohistory.org
[email protected]
The Coronado Historical Association was founded in 1969 to help people understand and appreciate Coronado’s unique history, art, architecture, and historical resources.

Daughters of the American Revolution, San Diego Chapter
[email protected]
sandiego.californiadar.org
Daughters of the American Revolution members are a diverse group who are all direct descendants of Revolutionary War patriots and are bound together with pride in inheritance and love of country.

Descendants of Early San Diego
Mailing address: 4002 Wallace Street, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 220-5422
descendantsearlysandiego.weebly.com
[email protected]
Descendants of Early San Diego’s mission is to promote, preserve and foster the cultural heritage of early San Diego ancestors and descendants.

Deer Park Automotive Museum
29013 Champagne Blvd Escondido, CA 92026
(760) 749-1666
www.deerparkwine.com
[email protected]
The Deer Park Auto Museum tells the story of Americana, centered around a century of automobile production that changed our nation, starting with the carriages of the 1800’s through the muscle cars of the 1970’s.

Del Mar Historical Society
225 9th Street, Del Mar, CA 92014
www.delmarhistoricalsociety.org
[email protected]
The Del Mar Historical Society was founded in 1985 with the mission to discover, record, collect, preserve, perpetuate, and display for public benefit the historical facts, artifacts, properties, and other material concerning the history of the village of Del Mar.

El Cajon Historical Society
Knox House Museum, 280 North Magnolia Avenue, El Cajon, CA 92022
Mailing address: P.O. Box 1973, El Cajon, CA 92022-1973
(619) 444-3800
elcajonhistory.org
[email protected]
The mission of El Cajon Historical Society is to gather, preserve, and protect historical records and personal publications about those living in and around the El Cajon Valley.

Encinitas Historical Society
390 W F Street, Encinitas, CA 92024
Mailing address: P.O. Box 232292, Encinitas, CA 92023-2293
(760) 942-9066
encinitashistoricalsociety.org
The Encinitas Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the City’s rich past though its research, library, programs, exhibits and publications. Founded in the early 1980’s, the Society was initially only concerned with saving the Old Schoolhouse but now aim is to serve the community in honoring and preserving the Encinitas heritage.

Escondido Genealogical Society
Pioneer Room, 247 S. Kalmia Street, Escondido, CA 92025
Mailing address: P.O. Box 2190, Escondido, CA 92033-2190
www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~caegs
[email protected]
The purpose of the Escondido Genealogical Society is to promote interest in genealogy, assist members and others in their research, and provide books, film, and other material for the collection at The Pioneer Room.

Escondido History Center
321 N Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025
Mailing address: PO Box 92033, Escondido, CA 92025
(760) 743-8207
www.escondidohistory.org
The Escondido History Center collects and preserves the history of its community, and exhibits and interprets this history in its Heritage Walk Museum.

Fallbrook Historical Society
Fallbrook History Museum, 260 Rockycrest Lane, Fallbrook, CA 92028
Mailing address: PO Box 1375, Fallbrook, CA 92088
(760) 723-4125
www.fallbrookhistoricalsociety.com
[email protected]
The Fallbrook Historical Society was chartered in 1976 and is dedicated to collecting, preserving and displaying the history and artifacts of the Fallbrook area.

Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum
4203 Anderson Avenue, San Diego, CA 92145
Mailing address: P.O. Box 45316, San Diego, CA 92145-0316
(858) 693-1723
www.flyingleathernecks.org
The Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum aims to assist with the preservation, documentation and display of artifacts and memorabilia, teach the values and history of Marine Corps aviation to all generations and inspire visitors with the courage and character of Marine Corps aviation personnel

Friends of Carrillo Ranch
6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane, Carlsbad, CA 92009
Mailing address: P.O. Box 130145, Carlsbad, CA 92013-0145
(760) 438-1666
www.carrillo-ranch.org
www.carlsbadca.gov/services/depts/parks/facilities/south/carrillo.asp
Leo Carrillo Ranch is a designated Historic National Landmark in Carlsbad that was opened to the public in August 2003 thanks to the support of the Friends of Carrillo Ranch.

Friends of Presidio Park
www.friendsofpresidiopark.org
[email protected]
Friends of Presidio Park is dedicated to supporting conservation and management of the historic, cultural, and natural resources of San Diego’s publicly owned Presidio Park.

Friends of the Pioneer Room
247 S Kalmia Street, Escondido, CA 92025
(760) 839-4315
library.escondido.org/escondidohistory.aspx
The Friends of the Pioneer Room supports the Escondido Public Library’s local history collection through organized fundraising projects such as the sale of the Pioneer Room Calendar each year. The group also sponsors local history and genealogy events.

Friends of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve
Mailing address: P.O. Box 26523, San Diego, CA 92196
(858) 484-3219
www.penasquitos.org
The Friends of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve preserves and protects the restored Los Peñasquitos Ranch House and the beautiful canyon.

Friends of the Villa Montezuma
1925 K Street, San Diego, CA 92102
(619) 255-9367
www.villamontezumamuseum.org
[email protected]
A 1887 Victorian house museum, built by musician and spiritualist Jesse Shepard located in Sherman Heights Historic District.

Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation
410 Island Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 233-4692
gaslampfoundation.org
[email protected]
The Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation provides San Diego residents and visitors with informative museum exhibits, programs and tours offered through the Davis-Horton House, the oldest standing residence in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Heritage of the Americas Museum
Cuyamaca College, 12110 Cuyamaca College Drive W, El Cajon, CA 92019
(619) 670-5194
www.cuyamaca.edu/campus-life/arts-culture/museum/default.aspx
Heritage of the Americas Museum is an educational and cultural center featuring the prehistoric and historic art, culture, and natural history of the Americas.

Heritage County Park
2454 Heritage Park Row, San Diego, CA 92110
(858) 565-3600
www.sandiegocounty.gov/parks/heritage.html
Heritage County Park is a County of San Diego park adjacent to Old Town featuring several restored Victorian homes and San Diego’s first synagogue, Temple Beth Israel.

Heritage Park Village Museum
220 Peyri Drive, Oceanside, CA 92058
(760) 801-0645
www.ci.oceanside.ca.us/gov/ns/parks/events/heritagepark.asp
Heritage Park was created in the 1970’s as a permanent and perpetual symbol of Oceanside’s heritage.

Horseless Carriage Foundation, Inc.
8186 Center Street #F, La Mesa, CA 91942
Mailing address: P.O. Box 369, La Mesa, CA 91944-0369
(619) 464-0301
www.hcfi.org
The Horseless Carriage Foundation, Inc. (HCFI) was established in 1985 to make automobile research and restoration information readily available to hobbyists, restorers, and scholars worldwide.

Italian Genealogy Society of San Diego
Mailing address: P.O. Box 620776, San Diego, CA 92162
www.oocities.org/pointsd
The purpose of the Italian Genealogy Society of San Diego is to promote the study and preservation of Italian family history, offer those of Italian heritage an opportunity to meet in person and share information about Italian genealogical research, and assist those searching their Italian ancestry by sharing Italian genealogical research experience.

Italian Historical Society of San Diego
Mailing address: P.O. Box 1055, Del Mar, CA 92014
(888) 862-4825
conviviosociety.org/heritage
The Italian Historical Society of San Diego is preserving Italian heritage and creating a lasting historical tableau through research, archival work, and historical projects, exhibitions, and events coordinated in conjunction with local universities and other organizations.

Japanese American Historical Society of San Diego
1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 338-8181
jahssd.org
[email protected]
The Japanese American Historical Society of San Diego recognizes the contributions Japanese Americans have made to the San Diego region by preserving and making available artifacts, photographs, and other information chronicling their history and experiences.

Jewish Historical Society of San Diego
San Diego State University, Malcolm Love Library, Irving and Sylvia Snyder Reading Room, #363
Mailing address: Jewish Studies Program, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive,
San Diego, CA 92182
(619) 232-5888
jewishstudies.sdsu.edu/archives.htm
[email protected]
In 1999, the Jewish Historical Society of San Diego Archives was established, consisting of documents, papers, letters, books, photographs, and other materials that Jewish people have collected over the years about themselves and their lives here in San Diego.

Julian Pioneer Museum
2811 Washington Street, Julian, CA 92036
(760) 765-0227
julianpioneermuseum.org
[email protected]
The Julian Pioneer Museum collection includes historical artifacts throughout the museum provide a visual narrative of Julian history from 1869 to the turn of the last century.

Junípero Serra Msuseum
2727 Presidio Drive, San Diego, CA 92103
Mailing address: 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 297-3258
Operated by the San Diego History Center since 1928, the Junípero Serra Museum is an iconic regional landmark. Located in the National Historic Landmark Presidio Park, the Serra sits on one of the most significant historical sites on the West Coast, where both San Diego and California were founded. Permanent exhibits and programs. With its renowned architecture and historic setting, the Serra is one of San Diego’s preferred wedding and event sites.

La Jolla Historical Society
7846 Eads Avenue, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 459-0226
lajollahistory.org
The La Jolla Historical Society is dedicated to the discovery, collection and preservation of La Jolla’s heritage. Through their collections, programs and advocacy, we carry out our mission by: Discovering, recording and sharing La Jolla’s history; preserving La Jolla’s historical objects, sites and structures; and increasing community awareness of the value of our heritage.

La Mesa Historical Society
8369 University Avenue, La Mesa, CA 91942
Mailing address: P.O. Box 882, La Mesa, CA 91944
(619) 466-0197
lamesahistory.com
[email protected]
The La Mesa Historical Society Mission is to promote, collect and educate on and about the history of La Mesa and its area of historical influence for the benefit of the community through the McKinney House Museum, Historical Archives and public programs.

La Playa Trail Association
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 60594, San Diego, CA 92166
www.laplayatrail.org
The La Playa Trail Association was founded to commemorate the oldest European trail along the Pacific Coast. The Trail stretches from the harbor entrance to the Mission San Diego de Alcala in Mission Valley, and beyond.

Lakeside Historical Society
9906 Maine Avenue, Lakeside, CA 92040
(619) 561-1886
www.lakesidehistory.org
[email protected]
The Lakeside Historical Society was founded in 1972 and is dedicated to the preservation and education of Lakeside’s diverse history.

Lambda Archives of San Diego
4545 Park Blvd, Suite 104, San Diego, CA 92116
Mailing address: P.O. Box 40389, San Diego, CA 92164-0389
(619) 260-1522
www.lambdaarchives.us
[email protected]
The mission of the Lambda Archives of San Diego is to collect, preserve, and teach the history of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in the San Diego and Northern Baja California region.

Lemon Grove Historical Society
Lemon Grove Historical Society
3185 Olive Street, Lemon Grove, CA 91945
Mailing address: P.O. Box 624, Lemon Grove, CA 91946
(619) 460-4353
www.lghistorical.org
[email protected]
The Lemon Grove Historical Society maintains and operates the H. Lee House and Parsonage Museum historic sites located in Lemon Grove’s Civic Center Park.

Los Californios
Mailing address: P.O. Box 1633, Ventura, CA 93002-1633
www.loscalifornianos.org
Los Californianos was organized by their descendants to preserve the Hispanic heritage of Alta California (history, music, culture, infrastructure, etc.) and to help other descendants compile their Hispanic genealogy.

Marine Corps Recruit Depot Museum and Foundation
Marine Corps Recruit Depot Day Hall, Building 26
Mailing address: 1600 Henderson Avenue, Suite 106A, San Diego, CA 92140-5000
(619) 524-6719
www.corpshistory.org
[email protected]
The MCRD Museum’s focus is the history of the Marine Corps in the 20th and 21st centuries, as well as the history of the Marines in Southern California. The MCRD Museum also maintains a Reference Center, that includes an Archives and a Research Library.

Marston House
3525 7th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 297-9327
www.sohosandiego.org/main/marston2.htm
[email protected]
Operated by Save Our Heritage Organisation and furnished in the style of the American Arts and Crafts Movement of the early 20th century, George W. and Anna Gunn Marston’s home was designed by architects Irving Gill and William Hebbard.

Mission Hills Heritage
Mailing address: 325 West Washington Street, Suite 2 #221, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 497-1193
www.missionhillsheritage.org
[email protected]
Mission Hills Heritage’s mission is to preserve and protect the character, charm and historic resources of Mission Hills, assuring that development projects harmonize with the established community.

Mission San Diego de Alcala
10818 San Diego Mission Road, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 283-7319
www.missionsandiego.org
San Diego de Alcalá, the first of the twenty-one California Missions, marks the birthplace of Christianity in the west coast of the United States. Today the Mission, which was founded in 1769, serves as an active parish church and cultural center for people of all faiths who are welcome to visit and relive the grandeur and excitement of more than two centuries of California history and tradition.

Mission San Antonio de Pala
3015 Pala Mission Road, Pala, CA 92059
(760) 742-3317
www.missionsanantonio.org
Mission was founded in 1816 as an “asistencia” to the Mission San Luis Rey. Unique free-standing bell tower is modeled after one in Juarez, Mexico. Mission Pala is still in active service and is the only Mission to have remained in continuous service as was originally established ministering a native population.

 

Mission San Luis Rey
4050 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA 92057
(760) 757-3651
www.sanluisrey.org
[email protected]
Mission San Luis Rey de Francia is the 18th in the chain of 21 California Missions established by the Spanish Franciscans. The history of the San Luis Rey area reflects five periods of occupation: Luiseño Indian, Spanish Mission, Mexican Secularization, American Military, and Twentieth Century Restoration.

Mountain Empire Historical Society
Gaskill Brothers Stone Store Museum, 31130 Highway 94, Campo, CA 91906-3132
Mailing address: P.O. Box 394, Campo, CA 91906
(619) 663-1885
www.cssmus.org
The Mountain Empire Historical Society is dedicated to preserving, conserving, and promoting the history of the Mountain Empire Region. Its primary purpose is to provide for the education of the public to the unique cultural and natural history of the region. Its operating arm, the Gaskill Brothers’ Stone Store Museum in Campo shall provide for the collection, interpretation, and conservation of the material culture, as well as the written and oral history of the region.

National City Kile Morgan Local History Room
1401 National City Blvd, National City, CA 92050
(619) 470-5830
www.nationalcityca.gov/government/library/local-history
Block of restored homes, townhouses and Kimball House museum.

North San Diego County Genealogical Society
Mailing address: P.O. Box 581, Carlsbad, CA 92018-0581
nsdcgs.org
The North San Diego County Genealogical Society’s mission is to encourage study and research in genealogy and local history. The Society sponsors programs designed to provide information and continuing education on genealogy research topics.

North Park Historical Society
Mailing address: 2226 Dwight Street, San Diego, CA 92104
(619) 294-8990
[email protected]
northparkhistory.org
North Park Historical Society’s mission is to help preserve North Park’s architectural and cultural history through research, education, and outreach.

Ocean Beach Historical Society
Mailing address: 1984 Sunset Cliffs Blvd, Ocean Beach CA 92107
(619) 226-8125
obhistory.wordpress.com
[email protected]
OBHS preserves O.B.’s history through the Sea Scrolls, archives, programs and public events. The OBHS Archive volunteers research, collect, preserve, and make available to the public information, artifacts, art and memorabilia related to the history of Ocean Beach.

Oceanside Historical Society
305 N Nevada Street, Oceanside, CA 92054
Mailing address: P.O. Box 125, Oceanside, CA 92049-0125
(760) 722-4786
oceansidehistoricalsociety.org
[email protected]
Oceanside Historical Society dedicated to the preservation and education of Oceanside’s diverse history.

Old Borego Pioneer Society
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1706, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
www.oldborego.org/
[email protected]
The Old Borego Pioneer Society preserves and promotes the history of the Anza Borrego community and the surrounding area for the education and enjoyment of residents and future generations.

Old Town State Historic Park
www.oldtownsandiego.org
State Park Information Line: (619) 220-5422
The largest assemblage of historic structures in California, located near intersection of I-8 and I-5.
Museums & Historic Buildings:
Altamirano-Pedrorena House
Black Hawk Smithy & Stable
Casa de Bandini
Casa de Estudillo
Casa de Machado y Silva
Casa de Machado y Stewart
Derby-Pendleton House
First San Diego Courthouse
Johnson House
Light-Freeman House
Mason Street School
Old Adobe Chapel (link to SOHO)
Racine and Laramie
Robinson-Rose House
San Diego Union Museum
Seeley Stables
Sheriff’s Museum
Silvas-McCoy House
United States House
Wells Fargo History Museum
Wrightington House

Pacific Beach Historical Society
Mailing address: P.O. Box 9444, San Diego, CA 92169
(858) 272-6655
www.johnfry.com/pages/PBHS.html
[email protected]
The Pacific Beach Historical Society was founded in 1979.

Pacific Southwest Railroad Museum Association
750 Depot Street, Campo, CA 91906
(619) 478-9937
https://www.psrm.org/
The Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Association is dedicated to preserving the physical legacy and the experience of rail transportation. Programs address the historical, social, economic and technical impact of railroading with particular emphasis on railroads of San Diego County and the larger systems with which they connected in the United States and Mexico.

Poway Historical and Memorial Society
Heritage Museum – Old Poway Park, 14114 Midland Road, Poway, CA 92064
Mailing address: P.O. Box 19, Poway, CA 92074
(619) 679-8587
www.powayhistoricalsociety.org
[email protected]
Artifacts from the Kumeyaay Indians, adobe bricks, farm tools and implements, household items and clothing from the 1890s through the 1940s. Photographs, documents, time-line murals and scale models of early Poway.

Ramona Pioneer Historical Society
Guy B. Woodward Museum, 645 Main Street, Ramona, CA 92065
Mailing address: P.O. Box 625, Ramona, CA 92065
(760) 789-7644
www.woodwardmuseum.org
Ramona Pioneer Historical Society exhibits of clothing and antiques, houses biographies, manuscripts and oral history archives and operates the Guy B. Woodward Museum.

Rancho Bernardo Historical Society
Bernardo Winery, 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego, CA 92128
(858) 775-5788
www.rbhistoricalsociety.org
[email protected]
The Rancho Bernardo Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the local history and increasing public awareness through programs and outreach.

Rancho Buena Vista Adobe
640 Alta Vista Drive, Vista, CA 92084
(760) 941-7639
www.ci.vista.ca.us/residents/rancho-buena-vista-adobe
Historic Rancho Buena Vista Adobe, established in 1845 Guided tours, facility rentals and special events are available.

Rancho Guajome Adobe Museum
2210 North Santa Fe, Vista, CA 92083
(760) 724-4082
www.sandiegocounty.gov/parks/ranchoguajomeadobe.html
A 30-room, 7,000 sq. ft. hacienda, built in 1853, is a beautifully restored museum, a state and national historic monument.

Rancho Santa Margarita y Las Flores
Vandegrift Blvd, Camp Pendleton North, CA 92058
(760) 725-5758
www.rsmylf.org
Rancho Santa Margarita history includes key events and figures from the history of California and the nation. The Ranch House has provided shelter and an administrative center for inhabitants of the Rancho Santa Margarita since 1841.

Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society
6036 La Flecha, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
(858) 756-9291
www.ranchosantafehistoricalsociety.org
The Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society’s mission is to collect, preserve, research and interpret the documents, photos and artifacts that connect us to Rancho Santa Fe and its past. The opportunity to learn more about the history of this special village is offered through exhibitions, historic sites, the archives, special events, educational programs and publications.

San Diego African American Genealogy Research Group
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 740240, San Diego, CA 92174-0240
The purpose of the San Diego African American Genealogy Research Group is to promote interest in, and the study of, genealogy, heraldry, and history with particular emphasis on the challenges unique to the research of African American family histories; To encourage group members to research and record their own family histories through individual and group efforts; And to develop pride in the remarkable achievements African Americans have brought to the American experience.

San Diego Archaeological Center
16666 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027-7001
(760) 291-0370
sandiegoarchaeology.org
[email protected]
The San Diego Archaeological Center preserves and curates prehistoric and historic archaeological artifacts. In partnership with Native Americans, the community and other cultural groups, it promotes education and scientific use of archaeological collections.

 

San Diego County Archaeological Society
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 81106, San Diego, CA 92138
(858) 538-0935
www.sandiegoarchaeologicalsociety.com
[email protected]
The mission of the San Diego County Archaeological Society is to promote public understanding and appreciation of archaeology in general, and to encourage the preservation of the cultural resources of San Diego County.

South Bay Historical Society 

Mailing Address: P. O. Box 742, Chula Vista, CA 91912
www.sunnycv.com/southbay
The mission of the South Bay Historical Society is to preserve and promote the history of the region of San Diego from National City to the border.

San Diego County Genealogy – GenWeb
www.cagenweb.com/sandiego
[email protected]
The GenWeb Project’s purpose is to provide Internet websites for genealogical research in every county and every state of the United States. The site offers records & resources for Genealogy Research for San Diego County and is administered by the San Diego Genealogical Society.

San Diego Electric Railway Association
922 West 23rd Street, National City, CA 91950
(619) 474-4400
www.sdera.org
The San Diego Electric Railway Association (SDERA) is dedicated to the preservation of the history of the San Diego Electric Railway – San Diego’s primary streetcar system which operated from the late 1800s to 1949. SDERA is also the operator of the National City Depot, an historic Santa Fe railroad station.

San Diego Firehouse Museum
1572 Columbia Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 232-3473
www.sandiegofirehousemuseum.com
Founded in 1962, the San Diego Firehouse Museum displays a large collection of antique firefighting equipment and memorabilia dating back 100 years.

San Diego Genealogical Society
Mailing Address: 7343 Ronson Road, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 279-7347
sdgs.wildapricot.org
[email protected]
The San Diego Genealogical Society exists to promote interest in genealogy and family history in San Diego through providing educational and research opportunities; and collecting, preserving, and publishing San Diego County genealogical and historical records.

San Diego History Center
Casa de Balboa, Balboa Park, San Diego
1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 232-6203
www.sandiegohistory.org
One of the oldest and largest historical organizations on the West Coast, the San Diego History Center is one of the only institutions dedicated to the heritage of a major American metropolitan region. Located in historic Balboa Park, the History Center presents engaging, family-friendly exhibitions that tell the stories of San Diego. The Research Library, open to the public, is the region’s largest repository of historic documents and photographs.

San Diego Jewish Genealogical Society
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 927089, San Diego, CA 92192-7089
www.sdjgs.org
[email protected]
The San Diego Jewish Genealogical Society promotes interest in genealogy and family history of Jewish populations in San Diego through providing educational and research opportunities; and collecting and preserving San Diego County Jewish genealogical and historical records.

San Diego Maritime Museum
1492 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 234-9153
sdmaritime.org
The San Diego Maritime Museum enjoys a worldwide reputation for excellence in restoring, maintaining and operating historic vessels. The museum has one of the world’s finest collections of historic ships, including the 1863 Star of India, the replica of the San Salvador, 1898 ferryboat Berkeley and 1904 steam yacht Medea. Research archives and library focused on San Diego and the Pacific.

San Diego Mormon Battalion Historic Site
2510 Juan Street, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 298-3317
mormon.org/mb
[email protected]
San Diego Mormon Battalion Historic Site evokes Old San Diego and includes hands-on exhibits and resources for learning more about those who served in the Battalion.

San Diego Navy Historical Association
www.quarterdeck.org
[email protected]
San Diego Navy Historical Association is dedicated to San Diego’s Naval heritage through providing education and training programs and education about the US Navy in San Diego.

San Diego Police Historical Association
San Diego Police Museum, 4710 College Ave, San Diego, CA 92115
Mailing address: 1401 Broadway St MS 734, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 726-6151
www.sdpolicemuseum.com
San Diego Police Historical Association is a non-profit group of concerned police officers and citizens dedicated to the preservation and display of the proud 160 year history of San Diego city law enforcement.

San Diego Public Library
Marilyn and Gene Marx Special Collections Room, 330 Park Blvd, 9th floor, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 236-5852
[email protected]
The Special Collections Room contains the library’s California Collection and allows library users to access heritage collections, whether they need resources about San Diego, California, or genealogy. The San Diego Genealogical Society donated its extensive genealogical library collection to the San Diego Public Library.

San Dieguito Heritage Museum
450 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024
(760) 632-9711
www.sdheritage.org
[email protected]
The San Dieguito Heritage Museum was founded in 1988 to collect, preserve and interpret the local history of the San Dieguito River area, including Leucadia, Encinitas, Olivenhain, Cardiff, Solana Beach, Del Mar, and Rancho Santa Fe.

San Marcos Historical Society
1952 Sycamore Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069
(760) 744-9025
www.smhistory.org
[email protected]
The San Marcos Historical Society is dedicated to the preservation, protection and presentation of San Marco’s heritage for the benefit of current and future generations.

Santee Historical Society
9200 N Magnolia Avenue, Santee, CA 92071
(619) 449-2024
santeehistoricalsociety.org
[email protected]
The Santee Historical Society explores Santee’s past to enrich the present and inspire the future. They connect people to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing Santee’s history.

San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park
15808 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027
(760) 737-2201
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=655
San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park honors the soldiers who fought in the battle between the U.S. and Californio forces on December 6, 1846 in the midst of the Mexican-American War.

Save Our Heritage Organisation (SOHO)
2476 San Diego Avenue, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 297-9327
www.sohosandiego.org
[email protected]
Through education, advocacy, and stewardship SOHO’s mission is to preserve, promote and support preservation of the architectural, cultural and historical links and landmarks that contribute to the community identity, depth and character of our region. SOHO operates the following historic sites: Adobe Chapel, Derby-Pendleton House, Marston Museum and Gardens, Santa Ysabel Store and The Feed Store – Antiques & Such, Warner-Carrillo Ranch House, and the Whaley House Museum.

Sikes Adobe Historic Farmstead
12655 Sunset Drive, Escondido, CA 92025
(760) 432-8318
http://www.sdrp.org/projects/sikes.htm
The Sikes Adobe Historic Farmstead, owned and operated by the San Dieguito River Park Joint Powers Authority, is a historic site dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the history of the settlement of the San Dieguito River Valley as experienced by the Sikes family during the period from 1869-1899.

Sons of the American Revolution, San Diego Chapter
3121 Madera Court, Carlsbad, CA 92009
www.sandiegosar.org
[email protected]
The Sons of the American Revolution to unite and promote fellowship among the descendants of those that fought and sacrificed to achieve the independence required to institute a free and independent government.

South Coastal Information Center
5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182
(619) 594-5682
scic.org
[email protected]
The SCIC is the primary repository for archaeological site records and reports for San Diego and Imperial counties in Southern California, housing cultural resource records documenting historical and archaeological sites and investigation reports.

Solana Beach Civic and Historical Society
Mailing address: P.O. Box 504, Solana Beach, CA 92075
(858) 259-7657
http://solanabeachcivicandhistoricalsociety.org/
The Solana Beach Civic and Historical Society evolved from the Solana Beach Women’s Civic Club that was formed in 1953. The purpose of the Society is to promote civic welfare by artistic and cultural advancement of the community; and to contribute to the education of the public through support of historical material and other appropriate activities.

Spreckels Organ Society
1549 El Prado #10, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 702-8138
spreckelsorgan.org
[email protected]
The Spreckels Organ Society incorporated in 1988 to preserve, program, and promote the Spreckels Organ as a world treasure for all people.

Spring Valley Historical Society
Bancroft Ranch House Museum, 9050 Memory Lane, Spring Valley, CA 91977
(619) 469-1480
www.svhistoricalsociety.org
Built in 1863, the Bancroft Ranch House museum contains memorabilia of Spring Valley history and artifacts from a time when only Kumeyaay inhabited the area.

The Stein Family Farm
1808 F Avenue, National City, CA 91950
(619) 477-4113
thesteinfamilyfarm.org
[email protected]
The Stein Family Farm is a Living History Farm Museum known as the last cohesive remnant of an original farmstead in the city of National City.

Temecula Valley Historical Society
Mailing address: P.O. Box 157, Temecula, CA 92593
www.temeculahistoricalsociety.org
[email protected]
Founded in 2000, the Temecula Valley Historical Society’s mission is to identify, preserve and promote the historical legacy of the Temecula Valley and to educate the public about its historical significance.

Temecula Valley Museum
28314 Mercedes Street, Temecula, CA 92590
(951) 694-6450
www.temeculavalleymuseum.org
Temecula Valley Museum portrays the stories of the Temecula Valley’s past and present through dynamic, fun, and exciting exhibits appealing to both local family audiences and tourists.

University Heights Historical Society
(619) 297-3166
[email protected]
www.uhhs-uhcdc.org
The University Heights Historical Society (UHHS) was established in 1997 to preserve the architectural, cultural, and historic resources in University Heights through research, education, and advocacy.

USS Midway Museum
910 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 544-9600
www.midway.org
The mission of the USS Midway Museum is to preserve the historic USS Midway and the legacy of those who serve, inspire and educate future generations, and entertain our museum guests.

Valley Center History Museum
29200 Cole Grade Road, Valley Center, CA 92082
Mailing address: P.O. Box 2665, Valley Center, CA 92082
(760) 749-2993
www.vchistory.org
Valley Center History Museum maintains an archive of materials on the history of the community, and operates a Museum whose centerpiece is a major exhibition on the California Grizzly Bear.

Vail Ranch Restoration Association
41403 Bitter Creek Court, Temecula, CA 92591
(951) 552-351
www.vailranch.org
[email protected]
Vail Ranch Restoration Association is dedicated to the preservation of the Historic Vail Ranch Headquarters Site in an area where Temecula originally started. The 4 acre site holds the last remaining portion of the Butterfield Overland Stage Trail and Ft. Yuma Road.

Vista Historical Society
2317 Foothill Drive, Vista, CA 92085
Mailing address: P.O. Box 1032 Vista, CA 92085
(760) 630-0444
vistahistoricalsociety.com
[email protected]
A vital part of Vista’s heritage is the Vista Historical Society’s Museum at Rancho Minerva.

Whaley House Museum
2476 San Diego Avenue, San Diego CA 92110
(619) 297-7511
www.whaleyhouse.org
[email protected]
Located in historic Old Town San Diego, the Whaley House stands today as a classic example of mid-nineteenth century Greek Revival architecture.

William B. Kolender Sheriff’s Museum
2384 San Diego Avenue, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 260-1850
sheriffsmuseum.org
[email protected]
The William B. Kolender San Diego County Sheriff’s Museum preserves and promotes the history of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department for the enlightenment and education of visitors of all ages. Museum displays San Diego County Sheriff’s Department history and serves as a repository for artifacts, photographs, documents.

Women’s Museum of California
2730 Historic Decatur Road, 103, San Diego, CA 92106
(619) 233-7963
womensmuseumca.org
[email protected]
The Women’s Museum of California’s mission is to educate and inspire current and future generations about the experiences and contributions of women by collecting, preserving, and interpreting the evidence of that experience.

Imperial County Historical Society
Pioneers Park Museum, 373 E Aten Road, Imperial, CA 92251
(760) 352-3211
www.pioneersmuseum.net
[email protected]
The Imperial County Historical Society was organized as the Imperial Valley Pioneers Society in  1928 to preserve the life histories of early settlers. While its name has since changed, its ongoing mission is still to preserve the unique development of the irrigated desert and the people who developed the area’s modern history.

Imperial Valley College Desert Museum 
11 Frontage Rd, P.O. Box 430, Ocotillo, CA 92259
(760) 358-7016
www.ivdesertmuseum.org
[email protected]
The mission of the Imperial Valley Desert Museum is to preserve, interpret, and celebrate the desert through outstanding collections, research, and educational programs.

BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO

Centro Cultural Tijuana
Paseo de Los Heroes 9350, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, 22010 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
+52 664 687 9600
www.cecut.gob.mx
Centro Cultural Tijuana included a permanent exhibition, called “Museo de las Californias”, which is a walk through the history of the Baja Peninsula and the state of California from the prehistoric period until the first half of the 20th century.

Corredor Historico CAREM, A.C.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 280, Tecate, CA 91980
01152 665 521 3191
www.carem.org
[email protected]
Corredor Histórico CAREM is based in Tecate, Baja California. CAREM’s mission is to protect, preserve, and present to the public the historical and cultural heritage of Baja California, Mexico.