Temecula Valley Museum

Take a step back in time and experience the rich history of the Temecula Valley from its discovery to today. A visit to the Temecula Valley Museum promises a fun and informational day for the entire family. Picnic facilities and a children's playground just outside the museum's front door in a picturesque park completes a pleasurable day. The original “Old Town Temecula Museum” was founded in 1985 by Sam Hasson, Nancy (Hicks) Maurice, and Tony Tobin.  The first artifacts exhibited in the museum came from the personal collection of Tony Tobin, and from a collection of objects and exhibits purchased from John Bianchi’s former Frontier Historical Center in Temecula.  The KACOR Development Company and Overland Bank contributed $20,000 for the purchase of local objects in the Bianchi collection when it was sold in 1985.The Temecula Museum opened in its Butterfield Square location in Old Town in November 1985.  In 1987 the museum moved to larger quarters at 28690 Front Street.  In July 1991 the museum paid rent for the first time upon relocating to an even larger space at 21950 Main Street.In 1993 Temecula Redevelopment Agency funds were allocated for the construction of a new museum and the renovation of the former St. Catherine’s Catholic Church.  The  chapel reopened in April 1998 and operates a wedding chapel through a collaboration between the Temecula Museum Foundation and the City of Temecula.  Construction on the present museum building started in November 1996 and was completed in mid 1999. Exhibits represent life in the Temecula Valley through time and different cultures that influenced the development of the area. Displays contain handcrafted artifacts, cultural items, ranching and farming equipment, documents, photographs, and more, Exhibits depict key stories, including the Luiseno Indians, Mission San Luis Rey period, establishment of the ranchos, and transportation influences including the stagecoach and railroads. The Temecula Valley Museum also offers a playful interactive discovery area for children. Hands-on learning experiences take place in a street scene setting with a General Store, a Dress Shop, a Photographer's Studio, a Ride-a-Pony station and much more.