Pasadena Museum of History

Nestled in the heart of Pasadena, California, the Pasadena Museum of History stands as a beacon of cultural and historical significance, offering a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of the region's past. This private, nonprofit museum and research library is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, art, and culture of Pasadena and the west San Gabriel Valley. With its picturesque setting on the grounds of a century-old Pasadena estate, the museum complex includes the Pasadena Museum History Center, the Fenyes Estate and gardens, the Curtin House, and the Finnish Folk Art Museum.

The Origins of Pasadena Museum of History

The roots of the Pasadena Museum of History can be traced back to 1924, when the Pasadena Historical Society began collecting information about the area's history. What started as a modest collection of materials stored in a single filing cabinet has grown into an extensive archive, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the support of the community. The museum's current location on the historic two-acre Fenyes Estate was made possible by a generous gift from the Paloheimo family in 1970.

Over the years, the museum has expanded its facilities to accommodate its growing collections and to better serve the public. In 1993, the History Center was completed to house the research library and archival storage areas. In 2000, additional galleries, conference rooms, a museum store, and administrative offices were added, enhancing the museum's ability to offer a wide range of exhibits, tours, lectures, seminars, and workshops.

Exploring the Archives and Collections

The Pasadena Museum of History's Research Library and Archives is a treasure trove of documents and artifacts related to the history of Pasadena. It boasts the largest and most comprehensive collection of its kind in the area, with over one million historic photos, rare books, manuscripts, maps, architectural records, and more. The museum's extensive art collection features works by local plein air painters, as well as textiles, ceramics, furnishings, and other three-dimensional materials of historical importance.

Among the highlights of the museum's collection is its costume and textile collection, which includes more than 3,000 artifacts dating from 1880 to 1970. The photo archives contain approximately one million photographic images, including work by important early Pasadena photographers, photo albums, stereographs, and postcards. The newspaper archive includes 15 linear feet of local newspapers, with bound copies of the Pasadena Star dating from 1886 to 1924.

The archives also house more than 150 special collections donated by individuals, organizations, and families active in Pasadena. Notable collections include the Sylvanus Marston Collection of architectural drawings, the Tournament of Roses Collection, the Giddings-Hollingsworth Family Collection, the Fenyes-Curtin-Paloheimo Papers, the Black History Collection, and the Hugh Anderson/Model Grocery Company Collection. Many of these special collections are listed on the museum's website and some are available through the Online Archives of California website.

The Fenyes Mansion: A Glimpse into Pasadena's Past

One of the most iconic features of the Pasadena Museum of History is the Fenyes Mansion, a historic property built in 1906 that housed four generations of the Fenyes-Curtin-Paloheimo family. This Pasadena Cultural Landmark is maintained in traditional Edwardian fashion, with its interior featuring handsome furniture and period furnishings. The mansion offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle and tastes of a bygone era, with docent-led tours available to guide visitors through its elegant rooms and surrounding gardens.

The Fenyes Family collection, housed at the museum and in the Fenyes Mansion, includes more than 3,800 watercolors and sketches painted by Eva Scott Fényes, an artist and traveler who lived from 1849 to 1930. The collection also features fine and decorative art donated by the family, providing a rich and diverse representation of the family's artistic legacy.

Engaging with History through Exhibits and Programs

The Pasadena Museum of History offers a dynamic array of public exhibits, tours, lectures, seminars, and workshops that promote an appreciation of history, culture, arts, and sciences relevant to Pasadena and its adjoining communities. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including local architecture, fine art, literature, science, social issues, personal histories, and exceptional historic achievements. The museum also offers educational tours for students in area schools, helping to inspire a new generation of history enthusiasts.

Visitors to the museum can explore a variety of special exhibits that change regularly, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to discover. From detailed explorations of Pasadena's architectural heritage to exhibitions showcasing the work of local artists, the museum's exhibits provide a rich and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Plan Your Visit

The Pasadena Museum of History is open to the public and offers free parking in the museum lot. The Research Library and Archives are open Thursday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m., providing ample opportunity for visitors to delve into the area's rich historical resources. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the past, the Pasadena Museum of History offers a fascinating and enriching experience that is not to be missed.

In conclusion, the Pasadena Museum of History is more than just a museum; it is a vibrant cultural institution that celebrates the unique history and heritage of Pasadena and the west San Gabriel Valley. With its extensive collections, engaging programs, and beautiful setting, it offers a captivating glimpse into the past and a deeper understanding of the present. A visit to this remarkable museum is sure to be a memorable and enlightening experience for all who pass through its doors.