permanent Exhibits
dive into Paso Robles History
Explore the rich history detailed in our beautiful exhibits here at the History Museum right here in downtown Paso Robles! These are our permanent exhibits that you can see year-round!
Paderewski
Paso Robles’
most famous resident
Ignacy Jan Paderewski is Paso Robles’ most famous resident. The world-famous pianist and composer came to PR in 1914 for the healing waters of the hot mineral springs and later purchased two large ranches west of town, where he planted wine grapes, almonds, and a variety of fruit trees. On display is a selection of photographs, performance programs, and memorabilia of Paderewski’s life and time in Paso Robles.
Medical Memorabilia
Paso Robles Elixirs & Medicine
Explore an extensive collection of local medical artifacts from Paso Robles pharmacies. This is a popular exhibit!
Hot
Springs & Bathhouses of Paso Robles
discover the healing properties of the water
The hot mineral waters & their healing properties are what attracted the first people to this area. By 1795, the mineral springs were referred to as “California’s oldest watering place.” On display is a history of the natural mineral springs, wells, and bathhouses that exist in our area.
Hotel El Paso de Robles
A remarkable hotel
Construction began on a magnificent resort hotel on April 22, 1889. This hotel would feature a seven-acre garden, a nine-hole golf course, a library, and an improved hot spring plunge bath and spa. It would be three stories tall and built of solid masonry, never to burn. Photos & artifacts from the historic hotel that burned down in December of 1940 are featured in this display.
bearcat alley
School's in session!
The area known as Bearcat Alley is named after the official mascot of Paso Robles High School. Yearbooks, photos & history of the first schools & high school, ‘Living Legends,’ & memorabilia are displayed.
Uncovering Buried Treasures
By The hiner group
The Hiner Group (Dale Hiner, Bob Ellis & Jimmy Wilkins) have created a unique display case featuring items they have discovered during their metal detecting adventures in and around Paso Robles.
stacks
books of history
Some of the original ‘stacks’ that held the many books from the old Carnegie Library have remained. Today they feature several displays: Black History (courtesy Patty Breckow), Outlaws, Women of Note, Paso Robles History, Early Businesses, Paso Robles Long Ago, & Pioneer Families (The Claassen and Franklin families are featured.)
Fire exhibit
Putting out fires for over a century
The Paso Robles Fire Department has served our town for over a century! We have a photo of a man in 1907 standing in front of a small building that was the fire department of the time. See photos like this and more in this history-packed exhibit!