Mariposa Museum and History Center

The Mariposa Museum was founded in 1957 and is considered one of the best small museums in the country. The goal of the museum is to share the lives of native Mariposa residents including those living in the area as Natives, those there during the Spanish period, the gold rush, and those occupying the area through the early 20th century. This is done through artifacts, documents, artwork, gold displays, and handcrafted baskets made by Native Americans. The museum has an indoor and outdoor setting and the exterior includes the only 5 stamp gold ore mil in the state. A number of historical buildings from the town of Mariposa have been moved to the site of the museum, further adding to its historical authenticity. Interior exhibits include a display of a miner's cabin, a Miwok Indian display, a one-room school, an authentic Mother Lode saloon, and furniture belonging to John C. West and his wife Jessie. There is an onsite library for those who would like to conduct research on Mariposa or for those conducting genealogical research for their personal desires. Appointments are required, but the museum is happy to accommodate patrons. Group tours and gold panning lessons are available, and those taking a tour of the museum can speak two a docent if they have any questions.