Bernhard Museum Complex

The Bernhard Museum Complex is a museum property in Auburn comprising a restored Victorian residence, farm buildings, and a storage barn for carriages. The site contains structures from the nineteenth century arranged to show how a working estate operated during that era.

The main building was originally constructed in 1851 as an inn and later transformed by Benjamin Bernhard into a residence and winery operation. This conversion during the 1860s reflects the economic shifts that shaped the region during that period.

The site hosts demonstrations of everyday work methods from the era of early settlement, allowing visitors to observe traditional crafts in action. These activities show how people managed daily tasks and trades during the nineteenth century.

The museum grounds are easy to walk through, with clear paths connecting the different buildings. Weekday visits are generally less crowded than weekends, making it a good option for a more relaxed experience.

The property preserves a rare stone winery building from 1874 that displays traditional construction methods and remains a visible example of nineteenth-century craftsmanship. The collection includes original carriages and wagons that allow visitors to see the actual vehicles people used for transportation during that era.

Location: Auburn

Website: http://placer.ca.gov/Departments/Facility/Museums/Placer%20County%20Museums/bernhard.aspx

GPS coordinates: 38.89160,-121.07600

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:22