Porterville Historical Museum

About Us:

The Museum, which was established in 1965, is housed in the old Southern Pacific depot, constructed in 1913.

The Museum is a historical walk throughout time: containing some of the region's finest examples of Yokuts and other American Indian artifacts, items used by the first pioneers and settlers to the region, and snapshots of various time periods throughout the past 100 years.  A large oil painting of a stagecoach by a Porterville High School student dominates the main room.  The sizable collection of decorative arts and crafts include china, dolls, quilts, and more.

The museum also has a local reputation for its display of trains during the holiday season (please see the "Spotlight" tab for photos).  We also have temporary displays that alternate throughout the year.

Frank "Buck" Shaffer is honored by an exhibit which features a life-size mannequin and memorabilia from his 37 years as director of the Porterville High School Band and the Fabulous Studio Band.  It is located in the Music Room.

A military mini-exhibit is tucked in the old waiting arcade. It features memorabilia from those who have served our country from the Civil War to the present day, but with a greater emphasis on World War II.