Carpinteria Valley Museum of History

The Carpinteria Valley Museum of History is a local history museum that presents artifacts and photographs spanning multiple periods of the region's past. The collection documents how the valley developed and changed through different eras of habitation and settlement.

The site's history begins in 1542 when Spanish explorers encountered the Chumash people who were building wooden boats there, leading to the name La Carpinteria. The valley later experienced waves of Spanish-Mexican settlement and American pioneering that transformed its economy and population.

The exhibits showcase how three different groups shaped the region over time through their material culture and daily practices. You can see how the Chumash, Spanish-Mexican settlers, and American pioneers each left their mark on this valley.

The museum welcomes visitors during designated weekday hours and does not charge an entry fee. Plan your visit by checking the current opening times before you go.

The museum maintains a research library with recorded interviews from former residents sharing their personal memories of life in the valley. These oral histories offer a human perspective on how the community evolved over time.

Location: Santa Barbara County

Operator: Carpinteria Valley Historical Society

Phone: +18056843112

Website: https://carpinteriahistoricalmuseum.org

GPS coordinates: 34.39742,-119.51781

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:21