lompoc valley historical society

I love local museums, and this was one of the best, with several things I'd never seen before. The house is set up like a Victorian home, but with even more stuff than my grandmother collected - tons of artifacts from everyday life of typical citizens from the turn of the last century. The tour is self-guided and nearly everything is out where you can get a good look at it, not roped off or in a glass case. Be sure to get in to the blacksmith shop and carriage house, too. I enjoyed this place so much I made a second trip in one week. If it seems to be closed, go around to the back to the reference room, and ask the volunteer docents to open any of the buildings for you. Everyone I met was very welcoming, knowledgeable about the area, and happy to be helpful.

This lovely 1875 home is beautifully kept with many displays. There is also a car and carriage museum with a Model S Ford and Model T racing roadster. A museum room displays many antiques from kitchens, medical, naval disasters, lighthouses. The reference room is packed with information about the local area and genealogies. A blacksmith shop has a great variety of tools. This non profit historical society is only open Mon & Thur 8:30 to 11...not federal holidays. Is also open the 4th Sat of the month...but that varies in June, August and December. The house is gorgeous during the holidays filled with holiday decorations and special visiting hours. Donations appreciated.