Volume 172

October 2026

October 2026 Newsletter

 

New at the Leonis Adobe

Pumpkin Party


Leonis Adobe Museum

Saturday, October 24th, 2026

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM


The Leonis Adobe Museum in Old Town Calabasas hosts its annual family-friendly Halloween Party on October 24th from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. The fun includes hands-on crafts, live music, and demonstrations of rancho life in the 1880s. Costumes are admired; not required. Tickets can be purchased at the door.


Not a member? Sign up easily in advance online!



Admission: $10 per person, members and children under 2 FREE!


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Events This Month

Open Site Day: Explore the Museum at Your Own Pace!


Workman & Temple Family Homestead Museum

Friday, October 2nd, through Sunday, October 4th, 2026

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM


Take your time to explore the Workman House on a self-guided tour. The house and grounds will be available for you to enjoy from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, allowing you to roam and uncover the history of the Workman family and the broader Los Angeles area from the 1840s to the 1870s. New exhibits are being installed in the Workman House, adding fresh stories and artifacts to enrich your visit. La Casa Nueva tours will be offered by guided tour at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Tour sizes are limited and space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Admission: Free


Learn More

Battle of Dominguez Hills Reenactment


Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum

Saturday, October 3rd, 2026

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM


Why is California a part of the United States? See history LIVE at our Battle of Dominguez Hills Reenactment. This battle took place on the Rancho San Pedro 180 years ago during the Mexican American War. The Mexican forces were able to push back the Americans to achieve one of five victories during the war. We perform a reenactment of this battle with canon fire, military encampments, vendors, food, and children’s activities. This free event is welcome to all guests to learn about history, military accomplishments, and an underdog success!



Admission: Free


Learn More

Reyes Adobe Days


Reyes Adobe

Saturday, October 3rd through Sunday, October 4th, 2026

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM


The 22nd annual Reyes Adobe Days festival is coming! Come join us for a parade, 5k, and a 2-day festival featuring live music, artisan vendors, children’s activities and entertainment, food trucks, and much more!


Admission: Free


Learn More

Heart of the Tataviam Pow Wow


Santa Clarita History Center

Saturday, October 3rd, and Sunday October 4th, 2026

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM


The Heart of Tataviam Pow Wow welcomes thousands each year for dance, song, drumming, and community. More than an event, it affirms the enduring presence of the Fernandeño Tataviam people and their deep connection to the ancestral village of Tochonanga, where more than 73% of the Tribal citizens trace their lineage.


Join us for two unforgettable days of culture, community, and celebration. Experience the heartbeat of tradition through vibrant dancing, drumming, Native arts, food, and intertribal gathering on Tataviam ancestral homelands. Admission is free and all visitors who come in a spirit of respect, learning, and community are welcome.


This event will take place at the William S. Hart Park in Newhall.



Admission: Free


Learn More

Tombstone Tales: The Children of El Campo Santo


Workman & Temple Family Homestead Museum

Saturday, October 3rd, through Sunday, October 4th, 2026

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM


Discover the lives and deaths of some of El Campo Santo's remarkable inhabitants. Explore the stories behind the headstones on this special tour of El Campo Santo, one of California's oldest private cemeteries. Lack of modern medicine, infectious diseases, accidents, and limited medical care claimed the lives of many infants and children, leaving lasting marks on the Workman and Temple family and revealing the heartbreaking realities of childhood in the 19th-century.


Tours depart on the hour from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Tour sizes are limited and space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A significant portion of the tour will take place outdoors (rain or shine) and requires extended periods of standing and walking.



Admission: Free


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Ikebana Workshop: Japanese Art of Flower Arranging


Rancho Los Alamitos

Sunday, October 4th, 2026

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM


Join us at Rancho Los Alamitos for a guided botanical art experience led by Tiger Blossom Studio. Set within the Rancho’s historic gardens, participants will explore floral arranging inspired by Japanese Ikebana as a way to connect with place, seasonality, and personal expression. Through observation and hands-on work with natural materials, this workshop offers a space for reflection, creativity, and connection. Open to all experience levels and offers a welcoming environment for both beginners and those with an established creative practice. Bring a friend or join in solo.



Admission: Pricing ranges from $61 to $110.


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Storytime on the Barns Lawn


Rancho Los Alamitos

Tuesday, October 13th, 2026

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM


Bring a blanket and join us outdoors on our Barns Lawn for an engaging storytime experience featuring themed stories for young learners. Stories will be inspired by the Rancho’s animals, history, and nature. Families will also be invited to explore sensory items designed for hands-on discovery. Explore the barnyard and visit our livestock. This program is recommended for 2 – 5 years old and their caregivers.



Admission: Free, RVSP required.


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There's No "There" There


Fillmore Historical Museum

Thursday, October 15th, 2026

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM


A look at things which were at one time in our community but no longer exist—good and bad.



Admission: No cost but the participant must register to get the link to the presentation.


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Discovery & Education in the Wild at UCSB’s Hidden Gem: The Natural Reserve System


Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

Thursday, October 15th, 2026

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM


Discover one of UC Santa Barbara’s best-kept secrets with Conner Philson, PhD, Executive Director of UCSB’s Natural Reserve System. Philson will offer an inside look at seven protected wildlands that serve as living laboratories for research, conservation, and experiential learning. Drawing from more than 270 active research projects, he will explore work in ecology, climate science, marine biology, rare species recovery, and long-term environmental monitoring. The program will also highlight how these reserves function as classrooms without walls, giving students and scientists direct access to California’s diverse ecosystems while advancing discoveries that support conservation, education, and environmental understanding.



Admission: $0 - $20


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Concierto Íntimo: Antonio Artese Trio


Santa Barbara Historical Museum

Thursday, October 15th, 2026

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM


Pianist, Antonio Artese, brings his West Coast Trio for an intimate evening exploring the expressive possibilities of the acoustic piano trio.



Admission: $20 - $1,000


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The 18th Annual Los Angeles Printers Fair


International Printing Museum

Saturday, October 17th through Sunday, October 18th

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM


We bring the best of letterpress, printing, book and paper arts to the Los Angeles area. With the backdrop of the world’s largest collection of working antique presses, the Fair annually brings together more than 135 artistic vendors and 2,200 visitors to experience the creative worlds of printing and handmade books.


Exhibitors include many letterpress and printmaking artists in the Southwest and beyond, offering custom posters, prints, hand-printed cards, memorabilia, hand-made paper, and antiquarian books for sale. Proceeds from the Fair go to the Printing Museum, a non-profit institution dedicated to the heritage, preservation, and advancement of the printing arts.



Admission: General: $15; Student/Senior: $12


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Barnyard Afternoon: A Family Program


Rancho Los Alamitos

Sunday, October 18th, 2026

12:00 PM - 4:15 PM


Spend a fun-filled afternoon at Rancho Los Alamitos! Families are invited to enjoy face painting, music, petting zoo, games, and get creative with hands-on crafts celebrating Dia de los Muertos. Barnyard Afternoon is a program with a mix of history, animals, and interactive moments. We hope to see you there!



Admission: $10 per person, free for 2 and younger; $10 per car.


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The Tataviam - The People Facing the Sun


Rancho Camulos Museum

Sunday, October 18th, 2026

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM


Local historian, anthropologist, and author, Dr. Laurie Solis, will relate the story of the indigenous first inhabitants of the Santa Clara River Valley with an informative and compelling account of our local Native heritage. Signed copies or her book, Tataviam: the People Facing the Sun, will also be available for purchase.



Admission: $10


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Día de los Muertos: Ritual and Resilience


Rancho Los Cerritos

Tuesday, October 20th, 2026

5:30 PM - 7:00 PM


As part of programming for "Seeds of Resilience: Barrio Americano," this panel discussion will explore the religious origins of Día de los Muertos and how its observance has provided a means of cultural preservation and fortitude within Mexican communities. From the sacred rituals of Mesoamerica to private observance in the home, this talk traces Día de los Muertos as an expression of cultural tradition and an anchor for resilience.



Admission: Free


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Best Fest: A Celebration of the 2026 Best Of Santa Barbara®


Santa Barbara Historical Museum

Thursday, October 22nd, 2026

5:30 PM - 9:00 PM


Enjoy sips and bites from many of the winning restaurants, wineries, and breweries featured in our Best of Santa Barbara® issue, publishing October 22. Mingle and boogie with the finest folks in town!



Admission: $55.00


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Exploration Talk: Inherited Stories, Evolving Identities


Rancho Los Alamitos

Thursday, October 22nd, 2026

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM


This talk by CSULB Associate Professor of Chicano and Latino Studies, Abigail Rosas, will center on Latine generational knowledges and experiences in the creation and documentation of family histories and creative expression. Focusing on the teaching of intergenerational care, convivencia, and relational approaches to documenting memory and lived experience, the talk explores how creative practice creates space for intersecting ways of knowing and forming identity within an intergenerational approach to history.



Admission: $10 per person, free for RLA Members.


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Flickers from the Silver Screen


Pasadena Museum of History

Thursday, October 22nd, 2026

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM


Join us for a frighteningly delightful evening as film historian and musicologist, Galen Wilkes, presents: "Flickers from the Silver Scream." Watch phantoms, ghouls, and goblins from classic horror movies pursuing their diabolical deeds in clips from vintage films spanning the 1890s to the 1940s.


Image: Bela Lugosi as Dracula, 1931



Admission: $13 PMH & P2H Members; $18 General.


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Día de los Muertos: Symbols of Remembrance


Rancho Los Cerritos

Saturday, October 24th, 2026

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM


Long Beach artist, Hely Omar Gonzalez, will lead an artist workshop inspired by "Seeds of Resilience: Barrio Americano" and Día de los Muertos. This special, all-ages workshop will allow participants to paint their own artwork inspired by the iconography of Día de los Muertos, including marigolds, calaveras, butterflies, and more. The workshop will be a space for creativity and reflection as we consider the roots and significance of Day of the Dead traditions and symbols across Mexican communities. Participants are welcome to contribute their creations to the community ofrenda in front of the Visitor Center.



Admission: $15


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Make a Difference Day


Rancho Camulos Museum

Saturday, October 24th, 2026

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM


Make a difference at Rancho Camulos Museum! Join us on October 24th at 10:00 AM for a hands-on day of gardening, learning, and giving back. Together, volunteers will help create Rancho Camulos Museum’s first dedicated California native garden, transforming the landscape while learning about the beauty and importance of native plants. Roll up your sleeves, get your hands in the soil, and be part of creating something that will grow and thrive for years to come!



Admission: Free


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The Boundless Biddy Mason: An Odyssey from Slavery to Freedom Across the American West


Workman & Temple Family Homestead Museum

Sunday, October 25th, 2026

2:00 PM - 3:30 PM


Born in bondage, Biddy Mason endured one of the longest forced migrations in American history—three thousand miles on foot from Georgia to California. She and her daughters labored in slavery in the “free” state of California for five years before launching a landmark emancipation suit in 1856. By the time of her death in 1891, she had laid the foundations of Black Los Angeles and ranked among the richest women of color in the United States.


In this first book-length biography of Mason, prizewinning historian, Kevin Waite, uncovers an extraordinary story of survival that carries readers from the cotton South to metropolitan California, and through the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the dawn of Jim Crow. By retracing Mason’s odyssey, he illuminates both the continental sweep of American slavery and the fragile, hard-won possibilities of freedom in the West.


A book signing will follow the talk. Books will be available for purchase at the Museum gift shop.




Admission: Admission is free but RSVP is required.


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Ongoing Events

Book Arts Institute Workshops


International Printing Museum

Saturday, October 3rd through Sunday November 1st, 2026

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM


Immerse yourself in creativity at the Printing Museum! We offer half, full, and multi-day workshops for adults and teens in screen printing, type setting, pressure printing, artistic bookbinding, linoleum block carving, paper marbling, and more. Get ready for Western European Style Paper Making (Sat/Sun, Oct 3 & 4), Gelláge (Sun, Oct 4), The Beauty of Italic Calligraphy (Sat, Oct 24), Type as Image: Halloween Fun (Sat, Oct 24), "Glow in the Dark" Screen Printing (Sun, Oct 25), Book Making: Sewn Board Binding (Sun, Oct 25), Wood Type Posters (Sat, Oct 31), and Handset Type (Sun, Nov 1). All materials provided. All levels of experience are welcome.



Admission: $100 – $275


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First Sunday Open House


Dudley House Historic Museum

First Sunday of the Month

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM


Open house tours of the 1892 Dudley Historic House Museum will take place the first Sunday of the month from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM. The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood streets (197 N. Ashwood) in Ventura. For information please call (805) 642-3345 or visit our website.



Admission: Free


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Campfire Program


Pio Pico State Historic Park

First Saturday of the Month

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM


Monthly family campfire program featuring activities, guided walk, and community gathering. Bring your own s'mores materials. Park closes at 7:00 PM.



Admission: Free


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Main Street Walk


Santa Monica Conservancy

Second Saturday of Each Month

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM


Walk through Main Street's commercial hub and discover the evolution of Ocean Park, Santa Monica, through the experiences of artists, entrepreneurs, and visionary architects such as Frank Gehry. Geared up with historic photos, "Street Seen" historian Mark Gorman shares anecdotes collected from years of research and curious exploration. Free for Santa Monica Conservancy members!


The event starts at the Historic Shotgun House at 2520 Second St., Santa Monica, CA 90405.



Admission: $10


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Heritage Days


Los Encinos State Historic Park

Every Third Sunday of the Month

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM


Join us for Heritage Days at Los Encinos State Historic Park every third Sunday, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM. Discover what life was like on a 19th Century Mexican rancho through live history demonstrations. Watch the sparks fly at the blacksmith forge and try your hand at old-fashioned games. Free and fun for all ages!



Admission: Free


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Adamson House Garden Tour


Adamson House

Fridays, Now through December 18th, 2026

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM


Let’s Step Back in Time! Join us for a docent-led walking tour of the stunning gardens at the historic Adamson House in Malibu. Experience the beauty of these 1930s-preserved grounds and soak in the coastal charm.



Admission: Free



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Journey Through Time


Strathearn Historical Park


Our Park is open, free of charge, weekdays from 9:00 AM to 3:00pm, and weekends from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Docent-led tours through the buildings are available Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 1:30 PM.


This month’s building highlight are The Colony Houses. Built in Chicago as kit-houses, they cost $300 plus $50 to ship to Simiopolis in 1888. Twelve houses were purchased by wealthy doctors to start a health colony. More than homes, these buildings also housed the early post office, church, and telephone exchange.


Go online for a map of the Park and start making plans for your Journey Through Time at Strathearn Historical Park.


Admission: Park Admission: Free; Docent-led Tours: $5 suggested donation.



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Open Now!


Reyes Adobe Historical Site

Second Saturday of Each Month, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Third Tuesday of Each Month, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM


Interested in local history? The Reyes Adobe Historical Site is an early California rancho featuring a preserved adobe home, interpretive displays, and an adobe barn that is now a museum.


Join us on the 2nd Saturday and 3rd Tuesday of each month to participate in docent-led or self-guided tours around the historic Adobe buildings and beautiful surrounding grounds. If you have questions about the site, are interested in private tours, or have free time to volunteer, please contact us at (818) 597-7361 or staff@agourahillscity.gov.



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Book Arts Day for Girls and Merit Badge Day


International Printing Museum

From February through November, 2026


Join us for Book Arts Day for Girls and the BSA Merit Badge Day, an immersive experience introducing youth to the world of printing, paper, and book arts. Explore hands-on stations such as paper making, letterpress printing, screen printing, paper marbling, and bookmaking. Scouts can also earn Graphic Arts and Pulp & Paper merit badges and Girls Scouts/American Heritage girls earn a book arts patch. The day includes running presses and creating keepsakes, offering engaging and creative learning. T-shirts available for purchase. SPACE IS LIMITED. Advance registration required.


Admission: $55 - $65



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Mayan Yoga at the Homestead Museum


Workman & Temple Family Homestead Museum

First Saturday of Each Month (July 11th this month)

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM


Join registered yoga teacher and meditation instructor Itzpapalotl once a month for an hour-long session that will empower individuals to find balance and harmony within themselves and allow them to connect to nature and their own bodies in a profound way.


Classes are appropriate for all levels of experience and are limited in size. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or towel and water to class. Please RSVP via the Homestead's website to reserve your spot.


Admission: A suggested donation is $5 per session.


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Exhibits, Announcements & More

DANA Adobe Gifted Church


DANA Adobe


The DANA Adobe at Historic Rancho Nipomo was gifted the first Church building in Nipomo. Built in 1898, the original St Joseph's Catholic Church will be used by DANA as a visitor center to the town of Nipomo, historical museum, a venue, and continue as the home of Nipomo's Calvary Church. DANA is looking at raising funds to preserve and restore the property. The church is located in the heart of Old Town Nipomo.


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Caught, Canned, & Eaten


Los Angeles Maritime Museum


The Port of Los Angeles (San Pedro) was the nation’s fishing capital for much of the twentieth century. Generations of fishermen sold catches of tuna, sardines, mackerel, and squid to fish markets or canneries on nearby Terminal Island. World-famous brands such as Star-Kist and Chicken of the Sea had local origins. Today, the fishing fleet is greatly diminished and the canneries have closed, but the legacy of the industry endures. Discover cannery equipment and life-size murals, watch classic TV commercials for Charlie the Tuna, and experience that lovely aroma of fish, “the smell of money.”


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Where History Meets the Road: Celebrating Route 66 & Colorado Boulevard


Pasadena Museum of History


Where History Meets the Road traces the impact of Route 66 and the evolution of “roadside culture” along Colorado Boulevard. By examining the Boulevard as both a transportation corridor and cultural symbol, it becomes clear that Route 66 themes – mobility, commerce, nostalgia, and reinvention – have had a lasting impact on Pasadena. Interpretive text, memorabilia, and photographs will illustrate how this historic corridor shaped—and continues to shape—Pasadena’s urban landscape, economic activity, and historic preservation.


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Play: Bronze Sculptures and Other Stuff by Susan Read Cronin


Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

August 13th through November 29th, 2026


Play: Bronze Sculptures and Other Stuff by Susan Read Cronin brings humor, imagination, and emotion to the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum through bronze sculpture, silhouettes, and poetry. Cronin’s figurative, narrative works unfold like visual fables, using gesture, scale, wordplay, and wit to explore tenderness, mischief, vulnerability, longing, and wonder. The exhibition also connects bronze to its long maritime history, from ancient tools and trade goods to ship fittings and underwater components. Visitors can learn about the lost-wax casting process and take part in a museum-wide bronze treasure hunt, adding discovery and play to the experience.


Members only August 13, 2026 4:30 p.m.



Admission: Admission


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Arte de los Mantónes


Santa Barabara Historical Museum

Now through November 1st, 2026


Celebrating the beauty and history of the Spanish shawl, from its origins in Manila and the global silk trade to its lasting place in the traditions of Santa Barbara. Passed down through generations and featured in Old Spanish Days Fiesta performances and celebrations, these shawls reflect a living tradition that continues to connect culture, community, and heritage.


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Finding Saint Barbara


Santa Barbara Historical Museum

Now through December, 2026


This new exhibition will explore the origin and stories of our city’s patron saint and mark one hundred years of her presence in Fiesta celebrations.


The exhibition is part of our yearly series "Project Fiesta," created to celebrate the history of Old Spanish Days Fiesta in our community.


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Take Me to the Water: Histories of the Black Pacific


Maritime Museum of San Diego

Exhibit Ongoing


Experience this immersive new exhibit exploring Black maritime history, identity, culture, and connection across the Pacific world. Discover the stories of Black sailors, whalers, laborers, explorers, and coastal communities whose lives and experiences helped shape the Pacific from the 16th through the 20th century.


Developed in partnership with UC San Diego curator, Dr. Caroline Collins, "Take Me to the Water: Histories of the Black Pacific" brings together research, storytelling, and maritime history to explore Black relationships with the Pacific Ocean and the broader maritime world.


Exhibit entry is included with general admission. (Note: Last visitor entry to the Maritime Museum is 4:00 p.m. daily.)


Photo: Sailor at Chas McMillian Studio-AAMLO.



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Celebrating 120 Years of Newport Beach


Balboa Island Museum

Now through October 15, 2026


120 Years of Welcome Museum Exhibition: A curated history of Newport Beach through the lens of tourism.



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Pasadena Palette: Selections from Pasadena Museum of History's Collection


Pasadena Museum of History

Exhibit Ongoing


Since its founding as the Pasadena Historical Society in 1924, the Museum’s collections have flourished thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our donors and patrons. While many visitors know and love the Fényes Painting Collection on view in the landmark Fényes Mansion, few are aware of the remarkable paintings preserved behind the scenes. "Pasadena Palette" brings these hidden treasures into the spotlight, featuring approximately 50 paintings celebrating artists who lived and worked in Pasadena, portraits of notable residents, and vibrant scenes painted throughout the Crown City.


Image: "Dappled Light," 1917; Richard Miller (1875-1943)



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Seeds of Resilience: Barrio Americano


Rancho Los Cerritos

Now through December 31st, 2026


Through a series of installations reflecting an early twentieth-century barrio, "Seeds of Resilience: Barrio Americano" centers Mexican American histories by exploring everyday spaces that fostered community, cultural preservation, and continued resistance in the face of discrimination. Together, these spaces highlight the contributions of Mexican Americans and offer insight into how people organized their lives, supported one another, and asserted dignity within challenging social and economic conditions. The exhibition encourages visitors to reflect on what it has meant, and continues to mean, to seek belonging in the United States.



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Waves of Change: The Story of LA's Port


Los Angeles Maritime Museum

Exhibit Ongoing


"Waves of Change" is the new, interactive exhibit tracing the history of the Port of Los Angeles, from indigenous peoples to the supply chain issues of today. The exhibit includes artifacts and photographs never before exhibited. Free with museum admission.



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Templeton Museum Remodeled!


Templeton Museum

Open Friday - Sunday

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM


The Templeton Museum has a clean, fresh look for 2026. An inside-and-out upgrade allowed us to update our displays while welcoming our visitors. Stop by anytime during our open hours and see what is new (and old.)



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US NAVY: STEWARDS OF THE SEA


Battleship Iowa Museum


Introducing the first interactive exhibit aboard the historic USS IOWA, marking the initial phase of our transition to becoming the National Museum of the Surface Navy, set to open in 2025.


Sponsored by the U.S. Navy’s Fleet Forces Command, “Stewards of the Sea: Defending Freedom, Protecting the Environment” educates visitors on the Navy’s environmental policies through interactive activities, displays, and panels.


Designed for all ages, the exhibit features hands-on stations like hydrophone technology, whale identification, and “Big Eyes” simulations, with Stewie the mascot guiding kids on safeguarding marine life. Visit today with general admission!


The first hour of parking is free; any additional hours are charged at a rate of $2 per hour.


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Exhibit Coming Soon


Historic Rios-Caledonia Adobe


At the Historic Rios-Caledonia Adobe Museum in San Miguel, Friends of the Adobes is in the final stages of completing their newest exhibit. Working closely with local Salinan Elders, FOTA staff created a tribute history of the Tribe that built Mission San Miguel and later the original building which houses the Museum. Design and art are the work of Steve Kalar, fifth-generation resident, who is internationally known having lived and worked in Italy for several years. FOTA is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to preserving local adobes.


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Life at Sea


Los Angeles Maritime Museum

Exhibit Ongoing


The summer exhibit is “Life at Sea” - select photographs from the International Transport Workers Federation (ITFS) Seafarers' Trust Photo Competition. The first seafarers’ photography competition was launched in 2020. Seafarers were invited to submit photos of their experiences on board. The result is an unfiltered record of seafarers’ first-hand experience and a platform for their thoughts and reflections as well as images from daily life at sea.


Admission: Members Only.


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Talking Machines


Stagecoach Inn Museum

Exhibit Ongoing


Imagine your world without iPods, Sirius, Alexa, or any other kind of musical device. Thomas Edison invented the technology to record and play sound, which changed the world of music.


The Talking Machine industry became like the Wild West, with outrageous advertising, fights over product names, lawsuits about patents, and litigations between the major players in the business of recorded sound.


Have a listen to the talking machines at the Stagecoach Inn Museum. They create an amazing sound with no electricity and are beautiful in their diversity. This ongoing exhibit is a treasure trove of turn-of-the-century cutting-edge technology and beautiful designs. 



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Touchstones, Our Rocky Beginnings


Bolton Hall/Little Landers Historical Society


Join us for a new exhibit at Bolton Hall Museum. The Museum is open for your visits and exhibit viewing on Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM.


Touchstones: Our Rocky Beginnings explores the important role local Arroyo stone played in our community's early development and how this rare sub-theme of Arts and Crafts architecture became the character-defining feature of early 20th century Tujunga. The exhibit contains many rare images from our archives chronicling the use of river rock in everything from houses to hospitals, check-dams to churches. Learn what steps Little Landers Historical Society takes to protect and preserve these important links to our pioneer past and how you can help.


Admission: $5 suggested donation.


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The Heritage Memorial Rose Garden



Stagecoach Inn Museum

Exhibit Ongoing


Our garden is filled with roses and other colorful and fragrant flowers. The walkway meanders through the garden, leading to a flora-covered archway and a bench for resting and enjoying the splendor.


The walkway grows each year, for it is truly a memory lane. As you look at the bricks, you will see tributes to people, families, and businesses carved in. If you want to leave a lasting memorial to your family or loved ones, say it in stone! A donation fee covers the purchase and installation of bricks. 


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Announcements, Upcoming Events, etc.

Find Your Next Adventure!


California State Parks


California State Parks has a new online calendar! Discover cultural events, guided experiences, volunteer opportunities, and more.


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Hart Mansion Reopening!


William S. Hart Museum

Tours Offered Wednesday through Sunday


After a six-year closure, the William S. Hart Mansion has reopened to the public with free, docent-led tours. Located within the scenic William S. Hart Park, the Mansion invites guests to step back in time and explore the the life and legacy of silent film star William S. Hart, along with the rich history of the American West.


The striking 1927 Spanish Colonial Revival mansion features Hart’s original furnishings and an impressive collection of Western and Native American art. Visitors can also explore the Barnyard and the historic Ranch House.


To make a reservation, visit our website.



Admission: Free



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Call for Artists! Community Art Exhibit at the Homestead Museum


Workman & Temple Family Homestead Museum


Community Art Exhibit: The Homestead Museum invites artists of all ages to submit original artwork for an upcoming community art exhibit inspired by the museum’s beautiful grounds, historic architecture, scenic landscapes, and the rich stories preserved on site. This is a unique opportunity to creatively interpret and celebrate local history through a variety of artistic mediums.


Visit museum website for details and elegible art forms.


All submissions must be original works (no AI artwork, please)


Important Dates:


Submission Deadline: extended to October 1, 2026.


Opening Reception: Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 12:00 p.m.


Exhibition Dates: October 10, 2026 – January 10, 2027



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Call For Volunteers!


Reyes Adobe Historical Site


The historical Reyes Adobe site is looking for volunteers! If you want to donate your time by participating in the Agoura Hills Community and learning about local California history, this could be the place for you. At the moment, we are looking for enthusiastic docents to lead guided tours around the property. Please join us as our historic Adobe home is re-opened to the public, and be part of this wonderful project. If you or someone you know is interested, please don’t hesitate to reach out!


For more information, please contact us at (818) 597-7361 or contact staff@agourahillscity.gov



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Join SBMM's Monthly Book Club!


Santa Barbara Maritime Museum


Santa Barbara Maritime Museum has monthly selections that are (of course!) related to maritime adventures, history, marine science, ships, and sailing.


Members meet the second Thursday of each month in the Harbor Community Room in the museum building.



For more information or to find out the current monthly book being read, please contact John Jeffryes at jjsharkbait@hotmail.com.



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Volunteers Needed at SBMM


Santa Barbara Maritime Museum


SBMM’s Volunteer Program offers a unique way to dive into maritime history while giving back to the community. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds help interpret exhibits, support school programs, and assist with special events on the waterfront. Volunteers enjoy behind-the-scenes access, appreciation events, and a deeper connection to our harbor community. For details or an application, please contact volunteer@sbmm.org.



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The New Building Rises


Pleasant Valley Historical Museum & Garden


As seen from Los Posas Road, the Building Project is nearing completion, but no date for opening has been announced. The Charles Honn Botanical Garden is also still closed.



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Rancho Camulos Museum Experience Opportunities 


Rancho Camulos Museum

Join Tours & Docents Needed


Docent-led tours are available by appointment at 805-521-1501; OR join a scheduled docent-led tour Sundays starting at 1:00 PM. The last tour starts at 3:00 PM. Suggested donation $10. Museum access is only by Docent-Led Tour.


Looking for a unique volunteer opportunity? We are particularly in need of folks interested in conducting museum tours. We will have a Docent and Volunteer training session soon.

Sign up now online.  


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Aviation War Museum Needs Help


Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing

Now Accepting Applications


The WWII Aviation Museum at Camarillo Airport needs more docents. Join our dedicated team of volunteers from all walks of life. Our mission is to educate, inspire, and honor through flight and living history. Share your knowledge of past conflicts and aviation history with visitors worldwide. Meet other like-minded folks and get a chance to experience a ride-along in one of our warbirds (conditions apply). Current hours are Friday through Sunday, but we hope to expand hours with your help. CAFSOCAL wants you! Contact us for more details.


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Book a Tour Today!


International Printing Museum


Whether you're a teacher, history enthusiast, print fanatic, or LA explorer, the International Printing Museum has something for you! There are so many ways to explore the world's largest collection of antique printing presses. Drop in on Saturdays to see our Colonial Shop, Gutenberg Press, and Linotype machine in action. Teachers can book a Graphic Arts tour, or an opportunity to experience history through a Constitutional Convention or the Inventive Ben Franklin virtual presentation. If your school is too far from Carson to visit, we can bring our Museum on Wheels outreach program to you.


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The Leonis Adobe is Seeking Tour Guides!


The Leonis Adobe Museum


Join the award-winning team at the Leonis Adobe Museum as a part-time tour guide! Bring California's 1880s ranching era to life through knowledge and interactive activities. We are looking for enthusiastic team players who are passionate about history, working with children, and interacting with guests. Lead private school tours for children grades 1 - 5 and meet the community during open hours on the weekends. Join our amazing team and make some new friends. Must be available to work a minimum of 2 shifts per week. Morning, afternoon, and weekend shifts available. This is a paid position. Please reach out to our team at contact@leonisadobemuseum.org with your resume or call (818) 222-6511 to chat about the position.


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Volunteers Needed!


Workman & Temple Family Homestead Museum


Interested in sharing and preserving local history? Want to help make a meaningful difference in your community? Volunteer at the homestead!


Date and Time: Ongoing


Location: Workman & Temple Family Homestead Museum, 15415 Don Julian Rd, City of Industry, California 91745


We are looking for help in a variety of areas including:

• Customer Service

• Front Office Reception

• Special Events

• Visitor Engagement

• Tours


No experience necessary and all training is provided.


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International Printing Museum School Tours


International Printing Museum


Whether you're a classroom teacher, scout leader, college professor, homeschool group, or team organizer, the International Printing Museum offers engaging tours for all ages. Students can explore the rich history of printing and the innovations of Gutenberg and Franklin through our highly interactive field trips. Civic groups, corporate teams, and nonprofits can enjoy hands-on experiences with the book arts. Our award-winning Museum on Wheels brings antique printing presses and engaging programs to schools, libraries, and events across Southern California. Since 1988, we've inspired over half a million people through creative, hands-on learning experiences in the history and art of printing.


Admission: $350 minimum (includes 25 guests); $14/guest for groups larger than 25 people.


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Give a Gift of Membership


Santa Barbara Maritime Museum


Looking for the perfect gift? Give a gift membership and share all Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) has to offer! From engaging exhibitions to fun events, members get to experience maritime culture - all without leaving the harbor. All membership benefit levels include invitations to special SBMM members-only events; special rates for the Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series; a congruent membership to Santa Barbara Trust for Historical Preservation; and up to 20 percent discount at participating harbor businesses.


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About the Passport 2 History Program

Step 1:

Get your P2H Passport Booklet!

Step 2:

Visit great institutions!

Step 3:

Share your adventure!

Make the most of P2H!


Tag your adventures #passport2history on Instagram! And join the P2H community in our Facebook Group!


Visit every site? Bring your completed booklet to P2H HQ at the Leonis Adobe Museum for a prize!

About Us


Passport 2 History unites the sites, collections, experiences, and organizations that tell the story of Southern and Central California and its people.


We celebrate the institutions that take visitors back in time, showcase local experiences and talent, and preserve the artifacts and monuments of our State's rich heritage. We proudly invite you to enjoy all they have to offer. Participating sites submit events, exhibits, and announcements to be included in the regular monthly newsletter.

 

For more details, visit us at Passport 2 History — The Leonis Adobe Museum or check out our social media pages above.

* Please note that while we strive to list the most accurate information available at the time of publishing this newsletter, it is always best to contact the institution directly to confirm dates and times listed. Thank you!

Passport 2 History is facilitated by the

Leonis Adobe Logo

Passport 2 History is brought to you by the Leonis Adobe Museum in beautiful Old Town Calabasas. The Leonis Adobe Museum is Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #1 and operates as a living history museum.


Feed animals and explore one of the oldest residences in Los Angeles County. Learn the story of Miguel Leonis, a French Basque immigrant who became the King of Calabasas, and Espiritu Leonis, his Chumash-Tongva common-law wife who, following Miguel's death, won a 16-year court battle for a wife's share of his estate despite the odds against her.

 

To learn more about the Leonis Adobe Museum, check out KCET's Visiting with Huell Howser episode about us, as well as our channel on YouTube!

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