Oct 1, 2021 – Sep 27, 2026
Queer Santa Cruz
Explore the important contributions, impact, and history of the LGBTQ+ community in Santa Cruz County.
Santa Cruz County History Gallery
Discover the unheard stories of the people who made Santa Cruz County what it is today.
Who makes history? Discover the diverse stories of people who made history here in Santa Cruz County.
Farmworkers and fishermen. Street performers and surfers. Native Ohlone and migrants from around the world. Santa Cruz County is home to dreamers, artists, and activists. In this gallery, you will meet people who used their passion to fight injustice, invent new industries, and build a stronger community. We hope you will be inspired to carry the torch forward and make history.
History Pods
Within the History Gallery is space for rotating displays where we dive into more stories that build community in Santa Cruz County.
Oct 4, 2019 – Aug 22, 2021
Art & Healing: 30 Years After the Loma Prieta Earthquake
Dive into the story of 'On Sight' the group of Santa Cruz County artists who worked to rebuild downtown after the Loma Prieta earthquake.
Sep 3, 2021 – Nov 27, 2022
Do You Know My Name?
Inspired by the MAH publication of the same name, uncover inspiring stories about Santa Cruz County residents from the early 20th century to the present.
Presented by The Humanities Institute at UC Santa Cruz.
History Archives
Online History Archives
Have a time-traveling adventure through our robust digital archives
View the archives
Volunteer in the archives
If you love getting your hands dirty by flipping through old books, handwritten letters, and county newspapers, this volunteering option is for you.
More Local History
Online History Journal
Browse publications written by local historians, politicians, and superstar community members to dig deep Santa Cruz County History.
Historic Resources
Browse original publications, detailed history journals, fascinating podcast episodes, and an expansive archive to uncover the rich history of Santa Cruz County. For information about the Historic Landmark Program, click here.
On the MAH Blog
Wed, Sep 11, 2019
Top Activist Moments in Our History Gallery
Check out some of our favorite activist moments that can be found within our Santa Cruz County History gallery.
Tue, Sep 29, 2020
People of Evergreen: Mary Amney Case
Get to know Mary Amney Care, the woman who founded the first English public school in Santa Cruz in 1848.
Wed, Dec 2, 2020
Uncover Santa Cruz History: The Best Books to Gift
Give the gift of local history and support the MAH by shopping from a selection of our most popular MAH Publications over the last two decades.